Angelic Ordoñez shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Angelic, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
One thing I think is often misunderstood about my business is that it’s just about selling a product. What I do is deeply rooted in cultural appreciation, storytelling, and connection. Every lei I create holds intention — it’s a reflection of love, celebration, and respect for traditions that go beyond me. This business saved me during one of the hardest times in my life, and through it, I’ve been able to share beauty, healing, and community. It’s not just flowers — it’s a legacy I’m passing down to my children.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! My name is Angelic Ordoñez — I’m a proud Latina, a law enforcement officer, a mom of three, and the owner of Haukea Leis, a small business rooted in the art of lei making. I started my business during a challenging season of my life, and it quickly became my creative outlet and a way to reconnect with culture, community, and healing.
Haukea Leis isn’t just about flowers — it’s about intention and honoring tradition while creating space for new memories. I blend Hawaiian-inspired lei designs with a heartfelt mission to spread joy, cultural appreciation, and empowerment. Right now, I’m working on growing the brand, expanding workshops, and eventually opening my own lei studio — all while juggling motherhood, my full-time job, and the beautiful chaos that comes with chasing purpose.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
The moment that truly shaped how I see the world was stepping into the role of sole provider for my three beautiful children. In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, I made a choice to lead with love and light. That journey helped me find my purpose — not just in providing, but in creating something meaningful. Haukea Leis grew from that space of resilience and hope. What began as a small creative outlet became a way to bring joy, connection, and beauty into people’s lives. Through my business, I hope to show my children that even in life’s hardest moments, something beautiful can grow.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have been seasons where juggling motherhood, work, and running a small business felt incredibly overwhelming. I’ve had moments where I felt stretched thin, but I never let that stop me. Instead of giving up, I gave myself grace. I reminded myself that it’s okay to pause, to breathe, and to keep going at my own pace. Every challenge became a reminder of my strength, and every step forward — no matter how small — was for my children and the life I’m building for us.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes — the public version of me is really me. I lead with kindness, I give with heart, and I show up for others because I know how it feels to walk hard roads alone. I’m deeply loyal, passionate about empowering women, and I genuinely love cheering on other small business owners. What you see is someone doing her best to uplift, inspire, and build a life rooted in purpose — even on the days it’s hard.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people will say that I led with love — that I was a woman who gave her all for her children, her community, and her purpose. I want to be remembered as someone who turned struggle into strength, who lifted others even while carrying her own weight, and who never stopped believing in something greater. My legacy isn’t about titles or achievements — it’s about the lives I touched, the beauty I shared, and the example I set for my kids: that with love, grit, and intention, you can create something meaningful out of anything. Even broken pieces can bloom.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.haukealeis.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DL3tIXtxeiO/?igsh=MXZ0ZXh2aWZtaG54Zg==
Image Credits
Instagram: @janeroblesphotos
