From Hospitality to Hawaiian Entrepreneurship | Matt Smith of Puuwai Flowers

In this episode of The Personal Side of Business, Jet Bunditwong sits down with Matt Smith, co-owner of Puuwai Flowers in Kauai, Hawaii. Matt shares the journey of how he and his wife, Rosana, transitioned from careers in hospitality into building a growing floral business rooted in relationships, creativity, and customer service. The conversation dives into the realities of starting a business on a small island, learning through setbacks, and defining roles as a husband-and-wife entrepreneurial team. Matt explains how their hospitality background helped shape their approach to branding, service, and client relationships while navigating the unique logistics of sourcing flowers from around the world to Kauai. Jet and Matt also discuss: Growing a business almost entirely through word of mouth Working with weddings, corporate events, and celebrations of life The challenges of shipping flowers to Hawaii Learning from criticism and turning it into business growth Balancing marriage and entrepreneurship Why defining business roles is critical for couples in business together This episode offers an honest look at entrepreneurship, resilience, and building a lifestyle business in one of the most beautiful places in the world. To learn more about Puuwai Flowers, visit their website and follow their work on Instagram. puuwaiflowers.com IG@ puuwaiflowerskauai Check out more episodes and videos at personalsideofbusiness.com