About Us
"What is your Legacy?" This question is meant to get you thinking about living for a higher purpose, beyond the "day to day"...we've chosen to dedicate the café to 2 wonderful men who have influenced us in the most important way: they loved us unconditionally. Red Ginger Café is their legacy.
Our Dads (Jim and Walter), both worked hard their whole lives to provide for their families. They instilled a good work ethic in both of us and taught us to take what life sent our way with grace and dignity. They set good examples for their children and their communities and lived pono. They were active in our lives, always volunteering with our extra-curricular activities. Our Dads also had another thing in common: both knew how to have a good time and could be counted on to "bring the party" (if you know what we mean). Both Dads passed away recently of Cancer, but we still carry the best parts of them in our hearts.
My Dad (meaning Jim, Mel's father) grew up in Papakolea and in the valleys surrounding the homestead, there is an abundance of Red Ginger. Maybe this was why he always grew it in our yard and put it in vases in and around the house. I never understood why he would adore such a common plant. In fact, I used to tease him that Red Ginger was a weed, not a flower. He would always smile a knowing smile (you know the one fathers give us when they know a secret and we have not proven ourselves worthy to be let in on it). Well, I think the lesson to be learned is that there is beauty in the most common everyday things. He wasn't fascinated by the rarer, more delicate pua that we covet at the lei stores. Instead, he saw the beauty in the large, waxy red torch ginger in everyone's backyard. How wonderful is that -- to be able to STOP and enjoy the beauty in his own life, never having to search for more, knowing that the most beautiful part of his day was right in his backyard?
Be happy with your flaws, embrace your differences... love those around you as if they may leave tomorrow. Always tell people how much you appreciate them and enjoy what the Akua have given you... one more day. That is what Red Ginger Café and Gift Shop is all about.
Ho`i Hou i ka Iwi Kuamo`o.
First and foremost I am a wife and mother of 4 children (ages 7, 6, 4, and 1). I graduated from Kamehameha Schools in 1995 and Hawaii Pacific University in 2005. Suzette and I "bonded" almost immediately because we absolutely LOVE to eat and shop! Suzette got me back into hula and we both danced for Sonny Ching and Halau Na Mamo o Puuanahulu. As a mother, I see how living my life sustainably will be one of the greatest gifts I can give my children. One of my definitions of "Aloha" is to leave something better that it was when I found it. I extend that to Hawai'i - I will do my part to leave the 'aina a better place for my children.
I grew up in Kaneohe and graduated from Kalaheo High School in 1995. Most of my experience has been in the retail or food industry, however once my dad got sick, I really wanted to work my way into the medical field. Currently, I work full time at the Kapiolani Women's Center as an Imaging Assistant. Although there is a new focus in my life, my love for food and shopping will always be there. Because of Mel and the café I am able to live part of my dream...which is to continue on my father's legacy of living life to its fullest.
We've been working together for almost 15 years. Our journey started at the Chart House in Waikiki. Moving on, we later opened Alan Wong's Pineapple Room in the Ala Moana Shopping Center. We always knew we wanted our own business and the experiences we've shared helped pave the way for this dream to become a reality. While it hasn't been easy, the reward has been unimaginable. Over the years, we've come to appreciate the way our strengths and personalities compliment each other. We've met so many great people along the way and we thank them for being supportive of our not-so-little endeavor.