Hawaiian garlands, also known as leis, are an iconic part of Hawaiian culture. These stunning floral necklaces are often seen at celebrations, ceremonies, and special events, representing love, respect, and hospitality. Whether made from fresh flowers, leaves, shells, or ribbons, Hawaiian garlands are more than just beautiful accessories—they carry deep cultural significance. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind Hawaiian garlands, different types, the best flowers to use, and even how to make your own at home.
The Meaning Behind Hawaiian Garlands
Hawaiian garlands, or leis, symbolize aloha, which means love, peace, and compassion. Traditionally, leis were worn by ancient Hawaiians to honor chiefs, warriors, and special guests. Today, they are given as gifts for birthdays, graduations, weddings, and even to welcome visitors to Hawaii.
The act of giving and receiving a lei is special. It is a gesture of affection and respect. When someone places a lei around your neck, it’s customary to accept it with a smile and a thank you. Removing a lei in front of the giver is considered impolite, as leis are meant to be worn and enjoyed.
Types of Hawaiian Garlands
There are many types of Hawaiian garlands, each made with different materials and styles. Some leis are made with fresh flowers, while others use leaves, shells, or ribbons. Below are the most popular types:
Fresh Flower Leis
Fresh flower leis are the most well-known and commonly used Hawaiian garlands. They are made from fragrant, colorful flowers and are perfect for celebrations, weddings, and special events. Different flowers have different meanings, making each lei unique.
Leaf Leis
Leaf leis are made from ti leaves, maile leaves, or ferns. These leis are hawaiian garland for formal occasions and traditional ceremonies, especially for men. Maile leis, for example, are commonly worn by grooms at Hawaiian weddings.
Shell and Ribbon Leis
Shell leis are popular on the Hawaiian island of Niʻihau, where locals handcraft them from rare shells. These leis are considered precious and valuable, often passed down through generations.
Ribbon leis, on the other hand, are made from colorful satin or fabric ribbons. They are a great alternative to flower leis because they last longer and can be kept as souvenirs. Many students receive ribbon leis at graduations as a sign of achievement.
How to Make a Hawaiian Garland at Home
Making a Hawaiian garland at home is fun and easy. Here’s how you can create your own lei using fresh flowers:
- Gather your materials – You’ll need flowers (such as orchids or plumeria), a needle, strong thread, and scissors.
- Prepare the flowers – Remove excess leaves and stems. Cut the flowers to ensure they have a small hole in the center.
- Thread the flowers – Use the needle and thread to carefully string the flowers together. Make sure they are evenly spaced.
- Tie the ends – Once the lei is the desired length, tie the ends together securely.
- Store properly – Keep the lei in a plastic bag in the refrigerator to maintain freshness until it’s ready to wear.
When to Wear a Hawaiian Garland
Hawaiian garlands are worn during many special occasions, including:
- Weddings – Brides, grooms, and even guests wear fresh flower leis.
- Graduations – Students are given leis as a sign of pride and accomplishment.
- Birthdays – It’s common to give a lei as a birthday gift.
- Hawaiian Luau Parties – Leis are a fun way to bring the Hawaiian spirit to any party.
- Welcoming Guests – Visitors to Hawaii are often greeted with a lei as a warm welcome.
- Memorials and Funerals – Some leis are used as a way to honor and remember loved ones.
The Best Flowers for Hawaiian Garlands
Many flowers can be used to make Hawaiian garlands, but some are more popular than others. The best flowers for leis are those that are fragrant, colorful, and long-lasting.
Orchids – The Classic Choice
Orchids are one of the most common flowers used for Hawaiian garlands. They are available in various colors, including purple, white, and pink. Orchids are preferred because they are durable and stay fresh for a long time.
Plumeria – A Sweet Smell
Plumeria flowers are known for their beautiful fragrance and delicate petals. They come in shades of yellow, pink, and white. Plumeria leis are commonly worn at beach weddings and luaus.
Hibiscus – A Tropical Beauty
Hibiscus is Hawaii’s state flower and is famous for its large, vibrant petals. Though hibiscus flowers are often used as hair accessories, they can also be woven into leis for a striking tropical look.
Where to Buy Hawaiian Garlands
If you’re not in Hawaii, you can still buy authentic Hawaiian garlands from many places:
- Local Florists – Some florists specialize in tropical flowers and can create fresh leis.
- Online Retailers – Websites like HawaiianLeiCompany.com and AlohaIslandLei.com offer leis that can be shipped directly to you.
- Hawaiian Gift Shops – If you visit Hawaii, you’ll find leis at airport gift shops, hotel stores, and local markets.
Caring for Your Hawaiian Garland
To keep your Hawaiian garland fresh and beautiful:
- Store it in a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator.
- Lightly spray it with water to maintain freshness.
- Avoid direct sunlight or high temperatures, as flowers can wilt quickly.
For ribbon or shell leis, simply keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
The Bottom Line
Hawaiian garlands are more than just decorative accessories—they are a symbol of love, respect, and Hawaiian tradition. Whether made from fresh flowers, leaves, shells, or ribbons, leis hold a special meaning for both the giver and the wearer. From birthdays to weddings, graduations to luaus, there’s always a perfect occasion to wear a Hawaiian garland. If you ever receive one, remember to wear it with joy and gratitude.
