About Us
We're so glad you're here.
Our story didn’t begin dramatically or with a leap into entrepreneurship and quitting our jobs. You’ll find a bit more of our story below, but if in-person hellos are your jam (they’re ours, too), scroll just a little further to see which local markets we’ll be at next.
Our Story
It began with wind, or, more accurately, the lack thereof. Living on the Windward side of O'ahu, Teina and Holly are avid kite surfers, and the unusually windless winter of 2021 had them both going a little crazy.
On one especially calm day in November, they sat together on Teina’s couch when Holly noticed a small bud vase on display. Teina explained it was a vase she’d made at her studio, Red Mountain Pottery, in Woodland Park, Colorado. At the time, Teina was working as a veterinary technician but found herself with a side gig cleaning the studio for a local potter. Eventually, 18 months later, to be exact, Teina took over the studio and called it Red Mountain Pottery. She made functional stoneware and ran all over Colorado, selling the work at galleries and shops. This bud vase was a small reminder of a distant life.
Intrigued, Holly asked the innocent question - "would you consider getting back into clay?” - without realizing at the time how quickly this would spark Teina’s artistic fire. Half passion project, half business, and one full adventure, Kailua Potters was born.
Teina brings her 12 years of experience of producing work and Holly her 2 years of experience as a pottery studio manager. Together they explore the many facets of clay - from form to function, artistic expression, and celebrating the artist community in Hawai'i.
Where you can find us next . . .
Our Passion
Our pots come from us, a women-owned business, inspired by Kailua’s natural beauty. We started Kailua Potters as a way to stay centered in a busy world. We strive to stay curious and playful, and find clay to be a great teacher.
Whether you are a creative, designer, restauranteur, plant aficionado, or community advocate, get in touch with us! We welcome all partnerships and would love to facilitate your vision.