This December, we're honored to feature Kailee Freitas — mama of two and the owner of MahinaMade — as our Māmā of the Month.
From classroom teacher to small business owner, Kailee's journey is deeply rooted in her love for family, culture, and connection. In this Q&A, she shares the values that guide her, the meaning behind her designs, and the lessons that have shaped her along the way.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
"I was born and raised on Oʻahu, graduated from Kamehameha Schools, and then went to college in Oregon to become an elementary teacher. It was always a dream of mine to be a teacher! After graduation, I moved back home, married my high school sweetheart, and got a teaching job at a local elementary school. Fast forward over ten years, and I'm now running a business full time alongside my husband. We have two sons and our favorite way to spend quality time is being outdoors together!"
What parts of your upbringing do you hope to pass on to your keiki?
"Growing up, I will always remember how close my family was. We ate at the dinner table every night together & every Sunday, our whole family went over to my grandma's house... and we still do! I hope to raise my kids to always value family and how important it is to be there for each other."
What's something unexpected you’ve learned about yourself through motherhood?
"I've definitely learned a lot through becoming a mom & am still learning every day! One thing that I am so appreciative of is learning to live in the moment and to slow down. I have always been a planner who thinks three steps ahead at all times, and I am always on the go. Motherhood has taught me the joy in the simple things in life. Time goes by so quickly & I've learned to be present and to cherish these moments because they are gone before you know it. The days are long, but the years are short!"
You’ve said before that 'lei is your love language.' What does that mean to you personally — and how do you hope others feel when they wear your designs?
"Lei has been a part of some of my most cherished moments in life from birthdays, to celebrations, to weddings, and reunions. It is such a treasured part of our culture and one that I feel so connected to. One of my favorite ways to show love is to give lei. Through our designs, I hoped to capture the feeling of being wrapped in this sweet-smelling hug and give us all the chance to experience this any day, wherever we are."
If you could go back and give your pre-business, pre-mama self one piece of advice — what would it be?
"Have faith in God's timing. Just ten years ago, my life looked very different and I had a lot of doubt and anxiety over controlling all aspects of my life. I had timelines and plans with strict due dates and when they didn't happen the way I envisioned, it was hard! But I am so grateful for every obstacle because everything works out just as it should."
Follow along Kailee and MahinaMade's journey here!
Shop our collaboration collection here!
