Welcome to Luau Leslie Shop
Aloha & Welcome
At Luau Leslie Shop, our purpose is to honor and share the true spirit of Aloha by offering authentic aloha wear, lifelike island-designed leis, and handcrafted artisan shell jewelry. We humbly welcome seasoned collectors and newcomers alike into a community that is built on mutual trust, care and respect.
Where My Journey Began: 15 Years at the Legendary Mai-Kai
My story is deeply rooted in the heart of vintage paradise. For 10 unforgettable years, I had the distinct honor of serving as a Molokai Maiden inside the world-famous, historic Molokai Bar at the Mai-Kai Restaurant in Fort Lauderdale [local]. Every single night was filled with pure excitement—surrounded by spectacular live luau shows, dinners, music, and crowded dining rooms. It was a thrilling place to be, hosting guests who arrived from all over the globe to celebrate their weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations. Being on the floor for a decade allowed me to connect deeply with people during the happiest moments of their lives.
It was during these foundational years that I truly learned the meaning of Aloha. The original owners of the Mai-Kai did not treat their staff like ordinary employees; instead, they treated their employees like family. Under their generous guidance, we truly became part of the tightly-knit "Mai-Kai Family," and we all affectionately called Mireille Thornton "Ma." Through this incredible mentorship, I was taught to understand, respect, and deeply appreciate Polynesian culture and the values of true hospitality.
Following my time as a Molokai Maiden, I was promoted to manager of the Mai-Kai Trading Post, a role I proudly held for 5 years. This was where my passion for authentic craftsmanship truly came alive. I spent those years building close connections with our incredible vendors, and our devoted customers taught me what true loyalty requires. To satisfy our customers I was sent to trade shows to find unique new treasures, and even had a special two-week work trip to Hawaii. I launched the Trading Post’s very first online store to expand our abilities so that we could connect with our customers all over. I loved helping people find the perfect gift or keepsake to remember their visit.
Keeping the Spirit Alive at The Hukilau
Today, I carry that exact same dedication into my current role as the Merchandising Manager for The Hukilau—the East Coast’s longest-running, world-renowned 4-day weekend event for tiki and Polynesian Pop enthusiasts. This role allows me to stay connected to the Mai-Kai community I have grown to know and love. Just like the Mai-Kai, The Hukilau deeply embraces newcomers, and my goal with Luau Leslie Shop is to continue bridging that gap for anyone who is just beginning to fall in love with Aloha.
Magical Aloha Wear: Our Two Palms Journey
We believe that true quality requires genuine connections. During my work trip to Hawaii, I had the incredible opportunity to step inside the Two Palms Hawaii clothing factory in Honolulu to tour the facility and meet their wonderful team face-to-face. Run by two brothers who are absolutely spot-on when it comes to modern tropical fashion, their attention to detail goes beyond expectation. Their Hawaiian dresses are truly magical—engineered with flawless cuts and breathtaking patterns designed to make you look and feel absolutely beautiful.
Authorized US Retailer for Artist Mookie Sato
Luau Leslie Shop is also incredibly proud to be an authorized USA retailer for world-renowned Japanese illustrator and graphic designer, Mookie Sato. Strongly inspired by mid-century modern aesthetics and classic 1950s Polynesian-pop, Mookie’s distinctive art style has captivated global collectors. Through our official partnership, we bring his wonderfully imaginative tiki culture art prints, and distinctive aloha shirt apparel directly to you.
Our Promise to You
We carefully select items that carry a genuine footprint of Aloha, ensuring every piece is made with the intention of love and care. We commit to celebrating genuine craftsmanship and supporting creators—whether in Hawaii, the mainland, or abroad—whose values align with our own. Here we treat every customer like family and make sure every treasure you open from us brings you genuine island warmth and a smile to your day. Thank you for supporting our shop, trusting our curation, and choosing to live aloha!