Q: What inspired you to start Flores De Maria?

A: My Pacific Island heritage. In my culture, Mwáár Mwáárs and leis are typically worn for celebrations or casually worn for fashion. Growing up in Saipan, Refalauwasch wear beautiful fresh flowers and leaves around their body. I’ve always loved nature, art, and fashion. Seeing our people wear these unique, handcrafted fresh flower art inspired me to learn how to make them myself. It made me happy to gift my flower art to friends and family. Seeing the smile on their face when they receive a Mwáár or lei made just for them brought me so much joy. Which inspired me to share that same joy with my community.

Q. What is your mission?

A. At Flores de Maria we strive to serve our community with a variety of handcrafted and eco-friendly floral art for any occasion. We hope to inspire and teach others about our Pacific Island culture through the art of Mwáár Mwáár making and weaving coconut leaves. Using resources found here in the Micronesian islands and all over the Pacific.

Q. Tell us more about what you offer

A. We offer fresh weaved coconut hats and baskets, dried/fresh Mwáár Mwáárs and leis, tropical flower bouquets centerpieces and large koronan flores for any event.

Q. What are you most excited about right now?

A. I’m excited for all the public events on Guam this year, where I’ll be selling my Mwáárs and leis. I’m planning to host my first Mwáár and lei making workshop sometime this year.

Q. What’s your wellness motto?

A. Grounded in peace, your self-love is a medicine for the Earth.