Born on Maui and raised in Tahiti, Marla Pualani Braun-Miller has called the beautiful island of Maui home for over three decades. Her life reflects the spirit of the Pacific—deeply rooted in land, culture, and craft. 

Pursuing her passion for horses, she established her own stables called Kahalawai Farms & Stables. Here, she trains and educates the next generation of horse riders about the art of horsemanship.

Beyond her love for horses, Marla has a unique talent for creating elegant jewelry that blends lustrous Tahitian pearls with hand-braided leather. Each piece is inspired by the Paniolo, Hawaii’s legendary cowboys, and the Pā’ū Riders, the graceful women riders of old Hawaii. Their traditions celebrate horsemanship, resilience, and masterful leatherwork. 

Renowned for their cattle-herding and riding skills, the Paniolo meticulously braid their own halters, lariats, and tack—combining beauty with purpose. Marla honors this heritage by translating those techniques into wearable art.

Her jewelry is effortlessly versatile—designed to move from an active day outdoors to an elegant evening out. No two pearls are ever the same, making every piece as unique as the island story it carries.