What Is the Meaning of Hawaiian Wedding Leis?
Hawaiian wedding leis represent a loving union between two people. They also symbolize the couple's ability to care for each other as their parents have since birth. The leis are a popular part of the Hawaiian wedding ceremony both on and off the island.
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Identification
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Each wedding lei is held together by a string tied with 50 flowers. The flowers are intricately woven to create an appealing necklace design.
History
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True Hawaiian tradition dictated that the woman gave the lei to the man she was interested in marrying before he proposed. This practice has evolved to become a part of present day Hawaiian wedding ceremonies. The bridge gives her lei to the groom after her father walks her down the island but before the ceremony begins.
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Function
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The flowers symbolize the bride and groom's ability to love, honor and respect each other over time.
Significance
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Pikake, tuberose and llima flowers are used for their aromatic appeal during the ceremony. Hawaiian leis are worn by wedding guests and the priest alike as a symbol of the joyful and festive celebration.
Fun Fact
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The bride gives the groom's parents a lei and vice versa as a symbol of family respect. The groom's parents and the bride's parents exchange leis to honor the blending of families and they're acceptance of the marriage.
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References
- Photo Credit Shannon N, stock.zchng
