Family-owned farm Mari’s Gardens started out by selling locally grown plants and produce at farmers markets on Oʻahu, according to manager Mariko Lau, whom the store is named after. She is the daughter of Fred Lau, who founded the business in 2008.
“So, we know first-hand how much time, energy and heart it takes for vendors to show up. We are incredibly grateful for every small business joining us and want to make this event as successful for them as possible," she told Aloha State Daily by email.
Mari's Gardens Summer Fair is set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 19, at 94-415 Makapipipi St. in Mililani. The event will feature a plant and produce sale, activities for keiki and more than 50 vendors.
Lau requests that guests RSVP for the event at marisgardens.com, “so we and our vendors can better prepare. This is our first market that’s focused on celebrating local farmers, and we’re putting it on for the community."
“We’re hoping to welcome over 1,000 people into the garden. Our community has always shown up for us and we’re so excited to bring everyone together again. The energy and support are what make these events so special.”
Parking is limited. There is a small customer parking lot on site and some nearby street parking, she said. "We just ask that everyone be mindful and respectful of our neighbors.”
When asked what it takes to pull an event like this off, Lau said, “It truly takes a village.”
“We’re still finalizing our sponsors and volunteer team, but the foundation of this event is built on trust. Our amazing vendors believe in our vision and our staff works tirelessly behind the scenes to bring everything to life. Every detail is handled with a lot of heart and effort, and we’re so thankful for everyone who plays a role.”
“We’ve hosted pop-up markets before, but this one feels a little different," Lau added. “It’s rooted in who we are as a farm and a business. This year, we’re leaning into the agricultural side, offering farm-themed activities like planting activities, local produce stands, farm equipment photo ops, and educational booths with [University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources]. We’re also adding keiki-friendly features like pony rides, a petting zoo, a face painter, and a balloon artist. It’s a celebration of local farming and community fun all in one."
The intention, she says, is “to bring the community together in a way that supports local farmers, small businesses and families. We want to create an experience that’s rooted in learning and fun, especially for keiki with hands-on activities that inspire a love for plants, food and sustainability."
“It’s about connecting people back to the land and reminding everyone how powerful it is to grow your own produce and support those who do.”
ASD also asked Lau how business is going.
ASD: What are you most excited for in 2025?
Lau: We’re excited to keep expanding how we serve the community. Through new workshops, educational programs and collaborations. We’re especially looking forward to hosting more events that blend learning, sustainability and fun in a meaningful way. We're also investing in ways to make our gardens more accessible and impactful for all ages. These experiences allow us to connect with the community and share what we’re passionate about.
ASD: What are your future plans for growth?
Lau: Our goal is to continue growing both our farm and nursery operations, while staying rooted in our values of sustainability and community. We’re always looking for ways to improve what we do and find new ways to serve our community. We’re working on expanding our product offerings, improving our online shop and bringing more farm-to-table initiatives to life. Long term, we want to be a space where people come to learn, grow and connect with nature and each other.
ASD: What is currently your biggest challenge?
Lau: Farming and running a small business in Hawai‘i comes with a unique set of challenges – rising costs, limited resources and outside factors beyond our control. But like many local businesses, we face these obstacles with hope. It’s part of the journey. But we’re committed to continuing to grow thoughtfully and sustainably.
ASD: How would you encourage local/family-run businesses just starting out?
Lau: Start small, stay consistent and remember your why. There will be hard days but if you stay rooted in your purpose and surround yourself with people who believe in what you're doing, you’ll get through them. Keep going. Don’t give up. Showing up every day and doing your best truly matters. Things won’t be perfect, but if you lead with the right intentions and stay rooted in your values, it will always come together. Work together, support each other and always lead with aloha. Community is everything, and there’s so much power in building something with heart.
Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros can be reached at kelsey@alohastatedaily.com.
