Lei
A lei is a garland of flowers that represents a multiplicity of meanings, much like the word "aloha" has so many different meanings, depending upon context. Leis can symbolize a greeting or a farewell, but can also be given as a means to say "thank you" or "congratulations" as well as "I love you." Not all leis are composed of flowers, but most are, and all are used in traditional Hawaiian wedding ceremonies.
Islands
Each island has a different traditional flower used for wedding leis and garlands, so your arrangement may vary depending on which island you choose as your wedding site. Oahu's Ilima flowers tend to be small, delicate orange blossoms, while the island of Hawaii (nicknamed "the big island") uses the larger lehua flower. Molokai's blossom is a small, white candlenut flower, also called "kukui," while Mokihana does not use flowers at all, but substitutes a fragrant vine and multi-colored berries. Lanai uses Kaunaoa, an attractive yellow moss, and Niihau uses seashells with few or no flowers.
Exchange
Not only do the bride and groom receive flower leis, but the parents of the couple also receive gift leis. Fathers receive a traditional lei made of fragrant tea leaves interwoven with kukui nut leaves. Mothers of the bride and groom receive leis made either of white ginger or of pikake flowers.
Variation
Hawaii's islands have a warm, humid climate which encourages the growth of hundreds of flower varieties, many of which are used in traditional weddings. For example, hibiscus is often used in weddings, regardless of the island upon which the ceremony is performed. Also, orchids such as the "jewel orchid" are often used as ornaments for the bride, with a flower placed behind her left ear once she is married.
Arrangements
In addition to traditional leis, there are other flowers that are woven into the woman's hair to make a crown or laurel generally referred to as "pua" (poo-ah), which is the Hawaiian word for flower. Gardenias, hibiscus, plumerias, and puakinikini flowers, as well as the favorite flower of the bride, are used in these arrangements.
About The Author
Michael Hinckley received a Bachelor of Arts degree in US history from the University of Cincinnati, a Master of Arts degree in Middle East history from the University of California at Santa Barbara. Hinckley is conversant in Arabic, and is a part-time lecturer at two Midwestern universities.
