This week we spotlight Shawnalei Tamayose, a New Rising Star recruit from Brown Harris Stevens’ Union Square Office. Previously the founder of Aloha Luxury Estates, Shawnalei brings a unique blend of Hawaiian-inspired hospitality, competitive drive, and entrepreneurial expertise to her real estate practice. She is also the author of Becoming a Real Estate Agent: The Truth You Need to Know, sharing insights on authenticity, storytelling, and thriving in the industry. In the interview, she opens up about what drew her to BHS’s collaborative culture, how her heritage shapes her approach to business, and the lessons that have guided her rise in the market.
You and your team recently joined BHS’s Union Square Office after being at Compass…why did you decide BHS was best for your business?
How do you see the Manhattan market in general performing right now based on your recent client experiences?
I’m seeing an uptick in activity as we head into the fall market. I’ve had many conversations with sellers exploring listings with different agents, as well as with buyers discussing market trends, interest rates, and the best strategy for when to execute. As always, properly priced properties continue to attract strong demand.
You are a published author and content creator. What words of advice can you give your fellow agents on proper storytelling in business?
My words of advice would be:
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- Don’t be afraid to fully embrace who you are, not who you think everyone wants you to be. This industry is full of replicas, but what makes someone truly stand out is authenticity. When you show up as your real self, you give others the chance to genuinely connect with you.
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- If there’s one thing we all have in common, it’s how deeply we relate to life through feelings and experiences—happiness, disappointment, fear, challenges, and triumphs. Storytelling that taps into those emotions pulls people in, letting them truly connect with you. It’s like watching a great movie you want to experience over and over again. There’s something in it that touches you so deeply. When your story can spark those same feelings, that’s when it becomes unforgettable.
Favorite Dining Spot Downtown? What are you ordering?
One of my favorite dining spots downtown would be The Fulton by Jean Georges overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge. Not only are the views so romantic and stunning, but I am a huge fan of burgers, and they have my favorite! It’s called Gruyère Cheeseburger au Jus. The perfect dip burger with Crunchy Onions, Dijon Chili Mayonnaise, and a whole lot of love! I float away when I eat that burger.
Born and raised in Kauai, Hawaii originally, and with a team name of “Aloha Luxury” in the name, what is it about your heritage that molds your unique approach to your business?
If you’ve ever had the chance to visit Hawai‘i, you’ll know that Hawaiian culture is truly one of the most hospitable in the world. The people are heart-led, place relationships before business, do right by others, and treat everyone like family. They go above and beyond, offering generosity and kindness in every interaction. This isn’t just culture—it’s heritage, and it’s how I grew up in a Hawaiian home. I carry that same approach into my business, because it’s a way of being, not just a strategy. Even though I’ve called NYC home for the past 15 years, the majority of my family still lives in Hawai‘i, and staying connected to them keeps me grounded in who I am and how I treat others.
Share something few know about you.
Although I’m very accomplishment-driven, I often feel a little uncomfortable when others shine a spotlight on my achievements. In Hawai’i, humility is deeply valued, no matter how accomplished you are. Learning to embrace that has been something I’ve had to get comfortable with to thrive in this business…it doesn’t come naturally, but it has shaped who I am today.
Share a photo on your camera roll that means a lot to you and share why.
This photo is of me dancing Tahitian at the Miss Hawaii competition. It means a lot to me because it reminds me not to lose my creative, expressive self in business. It’s a reminder to bring my authentic, performer’s heart into everything I do as a businesswoman. It’s a testament to how much I’ve grown as a person and proof that, no matter the lane I’m in, nothing is impossible.
As a multi-title pageant queen, undefeated Polynesian dancer, and competitive tennis player, did this background help you in becoming the Rising Star you are today?
Absolutely. Growing up as a multi-title pageant queen, an undefeated Polynesian dancer, and a competitive tennis player taught me lessons I carry with me every day. I learned how to overcome obstacles, stay relentless in pursuit of my goals, and maintain my focus despite the challenges. Achieving something truly great often means letting your dedication to that goal outweigh the emotions that try to pull you away. When I’m fully focused, it’s never a question of if something will happen—it’s when, and I’ve never shied away from doing whatever it takes to make it happen.
I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to have amazing teams supporting me every step of the way, and that’s exactly why I felt Brown Harris Stevens was the right home for me—a place where I can continue to grow with a team that believes in my vision, backs it fully, and allows me to contribute to the growth and direction of the company as well.
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