As someone who has attended multiple Hawaiian weddings, I can attest to the beauty and significance of leis in these joyous celebrations. Leis are an integral part of Hawaiian culture and play a crucial role in weddings. But with so many options available, deciding what kind of leis to get for your wedding guests can be overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of leis, their significance in Hawaiian weddings, and how to choose the perfect leis for your special day.

Who Wears Which Lei at a Hawaiian Wedding?

In Hawaiian weddings, it’s customary for the bride and groom and their immediate family members and wedding party to wear special leis. The bride wears a white orchid lei, symbolizing purity and new beginnings. The groom often dons a maile lei, which represents strength and masculinity. Bridesmaids and groomsmen may wear coordinating leis that match the wedding colors or theme.

Wedding guests are often greeted with a flower lei upon arrival at the ceremony or reception. This gesture of hospitality and warmth sets the tone for the joyous celebration ahead.

What are the Different Types of Leis for Wedding Guests

Mele Lei

Lei Maile

Lei maile is one of the most highly valued leis in Hawaiian culture, made from the leaves of the maile vine. It is more specifically worn by the groom, but the delicate, earthy fragrance attracts everyone. The maile lei symbolizes strength and respects spiritual protection. Though not the most given to guests, a maile lei is for that extra special person.

Niʻihau Lei

Niʻihau leis are exquisite and rare, crafted from tiny shells found only on the island of Niʻihau. These intricate leis are highly valued and often passed down as family heirlooms. Due to their rarity and significance, Niʻihau leis are usually reserved for the bride, groom, and immediate family.

Floral Lei

The most available floral leis are those that are used for wedding guests. They can also be made from numerous types of flowers, such as orchids and carnations, right down to silk flowers. Floral leis are very colorful, may be fragrant, and are easy to tailor to any wedding theme or color. They are a beautiful way to welcome your guests and make them feel included in the celebration.

Kukui Nut Leis

Kukui nut leis are made from the polished shells of the kukui tree, also known as the candlenut tree. These leis have a rich, warm color and a smooth texture. Kukui nut leis symbolize enlightenment, protection, and peace. They can be a unique and memorable choice for wedding guests, especially those seeking a non-floral option.

What is the Significance of Leis in Hawaiian Culture

Leis as a Sign of Hospitality

Within Hawaiian culture, lei giving is about presenting hospitality and extending welcome and aloha. In gifting your wedding guests with leis, not only do you adorn them with a beauty accent, but also your thankfulness for finally being there for your big day with you. That tiny gesture alone makes anyone warm, hence letting a feeling of inclusivity set the mood for rejoicing.

Symbolism of Love and Respect

Aside from their decorative use, leis are very important in the Hawaiian culture. The circle shape of the lei symbolizes the infinite love and friendship that exists between people. When a lei is given, it surrounds the person with love and respect. In a wedding context, offering leis to your guests signifies your appreciation for their love and support as you embark on this new chapter.

What are the Traditional Hawaiian Wedding Customs? 

Selecting a Kahu (Officiant)

Traditionally, a Kahu, or officiant, would be selected to help conduct the wedding ceremony. A Kahu is generally one with much respect placed upon them due to their higher wisdom in years and their acknowledged spiritual leader among their contemporaries in things regarding Hawaiian culture. They could perform sacred rituals with the couple and bless them along with lei exchanges. Choosing the right Kahu can add depth and meaning to your wedding ceremony.

Role of Music in Weddings

Hawaiian weddings would not be complete without the sound of music, setting the mood and creating romance and festivity. Accompanied by traditional Hawaiian instruments, such as the ukulele, slack key guitar, and ipu (gourd drum), your ceremony and reception will take on an island feel. With the live performance of Hawaiian songs and hulas, your guests could as well be right in the heart of the islands.

Destination Wedding Considerations

If your destination wedding will be in Hawaii, here are a few other things to consider when choosing your leis for your guests. Keep in mind that some flowers might be seasonal or only available at a specific time, so it’s very important to work with a local lei maker or florist who can guide you through the choices. Also, consider is the transportation and storage of your leis, particularly if your guests are arriving from various different locations.

How to Choose the Right Leis

Match Leis with Guest Preferences

Picking leis for wedding guests is indeed a very considerate act on the part of a host to think about their peculiarities and special features. Some people have flower allergies, and others would prefer leis in a specific color or style. You can include questions about lei preferences on your wedding invitation or wedding website to get the input of guests. This extra step shows your care and consideration for their comfort and enjoyment.

Consider the Wedding Theme

Your overall wedding theme and colour scheme can also influence your choice of leis. For a beach-themed wedding, you may opt for leis made with seashells or tropical flowers in shades of blue and white. For a more traditional Hawaiian wedding, you might choose leis with native flowers like plumeria or kukui nuts. Coordinating your leis with your wedding theme creates a cohesive and visually stunning experience for your guests.

Budget Considerations

Leis can vary in price depending on the type of flowers or materials used, the complexity of the design, and the number of leis needed. When planning your wedding budget, factor in the cost of leisure for your guests. Consider working with a local lei maker who can provide bulk discounts or suggest affordable alternatives that still capture the beauty and essence of Hawaiian lei. Remember, the sentiment behind the lei is more critical than the price tag.

Conclusion

Choosing the leis for your wedding guests is one of the most meaningful and enjoyable parts of the wedding preparations. With an understanding of the importance of leis in Hawaiian culture, exploring your options will enable you to choose leis that not only beautify your guests but also relay your warm appreciation for gracing your special day. Whether perfumy flower leis, distinctive kukui nut leis, or any combination of the styles you choose, your guests will no doubt feel the warmth and aloha spirit that leis themselves have. So, embrace this beautiful Hawaiian tradition and let the leis remind you of the love and joy shared on your wedding day.

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