About Us

 

Hello! 

Welcome to Tehina & Co.

In the Tongan language, the word tehina is a term used endearingly and exclusively for a younger sibling of the same sex. My name is Lani, and this brand is a love letter to my one and only sister, my tehina, Ema (pictured above).

When Ema was 3 months old she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and the multiple rounds of chemotherapy left her cognitively disabled. But this is not a sad story. She's been in remission for 20+ years and is quite possible the cleverest person I know. Every good thing I've learned about this life, I've learnt it from her. 

The concept of our brand is driven by the depth and richness of sisterhood, because of the profound impact it's had on my life. I’ve had the privilege of growing up around strong women who are amazing sisters to one another, and I’ve taken the lessons from their relationships to heart. 

Alice Walker once said, “Is solace anywhere more comforting than that in the arms of a sister?”

When I take a look back on my life I realize that I would be nothing today without the women in my corner. In my darkest moments, it was always my sisters that brought me in, bandaged my wounds, and sat beside me- all without expecting a thing in return. 

That is the essence of being a sister. 

To hold space. 
To be open.
 
To accept someone for where they’re at, not where they’ll go. 
I firmly believe that life becomes so much more beautiful and abundant when you know you have a sister in your corner.
In 2021, I wanted women everywhere to have the experience of this kind of refuge, and I founded Tehina & Co.
Our pieces are culturally designed to inspire you to navigate this life with the grace you would have for a sister whom you love.
'Ofa atu ma'u pe, 
Lani & Ema.