Lanai Businesses Set Their Sights Online

Lanai business owners are using online resources to reach more customers. From social media to Etsy shops and websites, entrepreneurs on our island have been expanding their businesses to forge connections with new and existing customers through the Internet.

Check out what these tech-savvy shops on Lanai are doing to find business online:

Cory Labang Studio

Labang’s colorful, one-of-a-kind vintage pieces are a favorite with Lanai visitors and residents alike. Her brick-and-mortar store next to the post office is open by appointment only, but Labang has opened up her very own Etsy shop to cater to shoppers from all over the world. Her unique Hawaiian-print fabric clutches and handmade skirts have received glowing reviews. The positive customer feedback is a testament to Labang’s beautiful craftsmanship and quirky style.

Lanai Ohana Poke Market

Ohana Poke Market has been on Facebook since 2010, boasting an impressive 1,300 followers — not too shabby for an island of 3,000 residents. The shop joined Instagram a year and a half ago, which proved to be the perfect medium to share its mouth-watering photos of colorful poke bowls, artfully arranged sashimi platters, and other dishes. Active posting on both platforms allows Ohana Poke Market to share important information, such as daily specials and hours of operation, while engaging its followers with beautiful food photography.

The Local Gentry

A longtime favorite shopping spot on Lanai, the boutique carries the perfect apparel and accessories for island living, as well as a number of products made in Hawaii. The Local Gentry posts pictures of new clothing styles and products on Facebook, but is now sharing its handpicked treasures with the world via Shoptiques.com. Owner Jenna Majkus maintains her own online boutique via the Shoptiques website, which connects discerning shoppers with distinctive local shops.

Mike Carroll Gallery

Lanai artist Mike Carroll reaches many fans through his established gallery website, where he offers secure online purchase of prints and original oil paintings. Familiar landscapes such as the cliffs of Kaumalapau and Puu Pehe can be shipped to anywhere in the U.S., bringing a taste of island art to faraway states. For locals, Carroll’s Facebook page announces upcoming on-island specials, limited edition projects and art shows.

Richard’s Market and Lanai City Grille

Running one of three grocery stores on the island means communication is key. Richard’s Market recently launched its own Facebook page to provide timely updates to the community on shop closures and barge delays, as well as fun announcements such as market specials and contests. Not to be outdone, pau hana hot spot Lanai City Grille jumped on the social media bandwagon with Instagram and Facebook accounts to showcase the catch of the day and other onolicious menu items.