In this section, empowered women from around the world show us how they work to achieve their dreams and what it means to be a woman in today’s society.

This week, we feature a local florist, Ella Wall, who was born and raised in Maui, Hawaii. She has spent her life growing up in the small area of Kula, Maui inspired by the foliage and tropical scenery in her everyday life. Growing up in Hawaii, Ella found a passion for arranging flowers and creating different bouquets, which started her work as a florist. She also had inspiration to begin her work from her friend, Joy, who had recently passed away. This influenced Ella to create bouquets that would reflect the essence of Joy and carry on her loving spirit, naming her business ‘Tears of Joy.’ Read on to learn more about Ella’s inspiring story and her devotion to creating floral design.

What was your favorite part about growing up in Hawaii?

Ella: My favorite part about growing up in Hawaii was definitely nature. From going to the beach everyday, to hikes, and just being able to see the world through nature and through the greenery and flowers that inspired me.

How did you get into floral design?

Ella: I got into floral design by really liking flowers and through having a creative art background, it all just came together. I also was influenced by the passing of my close friend, Joy, who also loved flowers and always had a joyful energy and spirit. All of this inspired me with creating my floral design. I love putting flowers together; it's like building a puzzle through putting different pieces together.

What flowers are your favorite to use and why?

Ella: My favorite flowers to use are white florals that are very fragrant. Some of my other favorites are gardenia, pikake, tuberose and white garden roses.

What is a philosophy you live by every day in life?

Ella: The philosophy I live by is that you are what you love, not what loves you. It means that it’s not so much about what you’re good at or who loves you, but about what you want to do and pursue in life. If you have passion and dedication for something, you can do anything in life.

What is your favorite jewelry from our website and why?

Ella: My favorite jewelry is the Opalite full moon ring and the Tiare gardenia earrings. I love the ring because of the opalite and topaz; it reflects light great and just looks really beautiful. I love the earrings cause Gardenia is one of my favorite flowers and these earrings capture the flower’s beauty perfectly.

To explore more of Ella’s floral design, follow her account @tearsofjoyflowers.