I grew up in Japan, and there is a concept of Kotodama there. It’s rooted in Shinto, and it’s a belief that all natural phenomena, including spoken words and names, carry energies that can shape your destiny.

KAUANOE (The Misty Rain) is a name that was gifted to me. Through millions of miracles and chance happenings, I somehow met, fell in love, and married my husband. He received the name at birth.  Kauanoe a name that carries the legacy and history of hundreds of Kauanoes that lived before us, and those who will come after. I believe that when we choose to take on a new name at marriage, we inherit the energies woven into that name.

To me, rain symbolizes new beginnings, growth, abundance, and change. It is powerful and majestic. It can be soft, nurturing, and capable of a complete reset, washing away what was once there.

Rain is a metaphor for what fuels my creativity, passions, and drive to act on them. The Mist in Kauanoe, is gentle, loving, and patient. It is a reminder for me to be deliberate in my actions and to always choose the loving route.

I chose the name ALAUA by blending my name, Alyssa, with Kauanoe. I liked it because it also contains the words ALA and UA. It represents both who I am and the ala (path) of the ua (rain). The kotodama I wish to infuse into this name is a blessing: that anyone who speaks it finds the inspiration to stay true to their passions and the courage to act upon them.

My intent for ALAUA is to always design and operate with intention. I want a meaningful story behind every creation, rooted in the spark that first inspired me. Like water, I aim to remain flexible. I will be ready to pivot and change paths whenever necessary, while always nourishing and giving back to my community.

This is what ALAUA means to me.