A bit of Hawaiian tradition: leis

A wedding is an extremely special day in a couple’s life. There are marriage traditions passed on through generations in every culture, and etiquette to be followed throughout every step of the process. When couples come to Hawaii, there are certain practices that are expected. What is commonly overlooked is the tradition and origin of the novelties only found in Hawaiian weddings.

A lei is a circle of flowers connected together on a string. Hawaii is known for its beautiful tropical flower leis. They have become a trademark of the islands and an economic success for Hawaii. In ancient Hawaii, leis were used as a symbol of feelings and occasion. The exchange of leis during a traditional Hawaiian ceremony carries similar meaning to that of a modern-day wedding ring. The lei’s circular shape represents the everlasting love and devotion of the couple, and the beauty of the flowers represent the delicacy of the celebration. Exchanging leis during your ceremony is a reminder of the natural beauty of the love between two people. Oahu Wedding’s packages include a variety of different leis to add culture and beauty to your ceremony.

Traditionally, the Kahuna Pule (Holy Man) would bind the bride and groom’s hands together with a maile lei. This was believed to ensure a long, healthy and happy marriage between the two. The maile leaves are very precious in Hawaiian Culture. They are a gentle, easily perishable plant indigenously found in the islands of Hawaii. The binding of the maile lei represents the binding of the two hearts of bride and groom. Today when a groom wears a maile lei, let it be a reminder of the rich Hawaiian culture and symbolism that remains alive hundreds of years later.