About Us

Momako Designs

Hi, I’m Mona Benton — owner, maker, and everything in between here at Momako Designs. I started this brand in 2018 after moving to Cleveland as a way to stay connected to home and my roots. Sewing became a creative outlet and a way to bring a little piece of Kaua‘i into my everyday life, even when I was far from it.

When I moved back to Kaua‘i in 2021, I took the leap and made Momako Designs my full-time focus. Now, it’s grown into a space where I get to design and create pieces I genuinely love — things that are useful, thoughtfully made, and rooted in ease and joy. Every item is sewn in small batches, using prints I’m personally drawn to and styles I’d actually carry myself.

(Momako is a made-up name pulled from parts of my maiden name: MOna MArie KOnno.)

Lovanna Hawaii

Lovanna Hawaii is owned and operated by my sister, Vanessa Simao — the older (and arguably wiser) version of me. Her shop is also based here on Kaua‘i, and she’s been sewing for years under the close and unrelenting supervision of our mom, who’s usually just over her shoulder giving notes. Needless to say, everything she makes is top-notch.

Vanessa’s pieces are known for their clean construction, solid craftsmanship, and no-nonsense style. Her products are made to last — thoughtfully designed, well made, and tested by real life. I’m proud to support her work because her attention to detail and commitment to quality are unmatched.

(Lovanna is a mash-up of the girl names in our family: LOlita, VANessa, and moNA.)