This holiday season, look forward to spending your next Saturday at the Mālama Hawai’i Makers Market. 

“Our mission is to mālama (preserve, take care of) Hawaii’s small, local businesses by creating a gathering place where they are able to showcase their work, meet their customers, and network with other local makers in a supportive and creative environment,” their website says.

Mālama Hawai‘i Makers Market holds markets monthly at locations across Oahu in Hawaii Kai, Ala Moana Center and Haleiwa and on the Hawaii Island in Waimea.

I like walking to the location at Ala Moana Center, which is held on every second Saturday of the month, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The markets feature Hawaii’s premier local artists, designers, food vendors and more. Here, you can find some cute things for yourself and for your friends, while also supporting small local businesses.

You can also buy products and goods that aren’t found in your average store because everything is handmade or designed in Hawaii. This makes them truly one-of-a-kind and perfect as a special gift. 

I love wearing cute jewelry, and one of my favorite places to get them from is Yay Hawaii Jewelry (@yayhawaii on instagram). They sell necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings and bangles. 

These are some of the jewelry pieces I bought. I always get compliments from people when I wear them. If you’re looking for cute jewelry, or know someone who is, then this is a great place to purchase from. 

I would love it if I received this for Christmas and will definitely be buying more next time.

Personally, I am a gold jewelry gal. I love to buy gold jewelry. Some things I look for in jewelry pieces are daintiness, reasonable price and its material/quality. I prefer getting its matching piece if there is one or make sure I have other pieces to match with it, as well as everyday basics that I can layer together.

If you’re a first-time-market-goer here are some tips for you: 

1. Bring different paying methods: Some booths only take credit cards. If you pay with cash, at some booths, I noticed that they don’t charge you tax but only charge you the dollar amount. 
2. Have a reusable bag: So it’s easier to carry, rather than holding a bunch of separate, small purchases.
3. Follow the business’ Instagram: Some businesses will have special surprises if you follow them on Instagram, such as a random draw for a gift! 

This month’s line up has more than 150 small businesses that you wouldn’t want to miss out on. Check out the upcoming markets to do some holiday shopping, support small businesses and have fun in a creative community!