In Hawaii, a lei isn’t just a pretty necklace of flowers; it’s a tangible expression of aloha, a story woven with blossoms and leaves. Each lei tells a tale of affection, respect, celebration, or farewell, and understanding the language of lei unlocks a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian culture. It’s about time we dive deep into this beautiful tradition!
The History and Significance of Lei
The history of lei making in Hawaii stretches back centuries, long before Western contact. Polynesians, who first settled the islands, brought with them the practice of adorning themselves with natural materials like leaves, shells, seeds, feathers, and flowers. These early lei were not merely decorative; they held deep spiritual significance, representing status, honor, and connection to the gods. Specific plants and materials were associated with certain deities and used in rituals and ceremonies.
Over time, lei evolved from simple adornments to complex works of art. The arrival of new plants from around the world, brought by explorers, traders, and immigrants, added to the diversity of materials used in lei making. The art of lei making continues to adapt to the available floral spectrum. For instance, the vibrant plumeria, a now-iconic Hawaiian flower, wasn’t native to the islands but became a beloved lei staple after its introduction.
Today, lei are an integral part of Hawaiian culture. They are given for birthdays, graduations, weddings, anniversaries, and even funerals. They are exchanged as greetings and farewells, and presented to visitors as a sign of welcome. The giving of a lei is a gesture of aloha, a symbol of love, respect, and friendship.
Decoding the Language of Flowers
While any lei can convey aloha, certain flowers and materials carry specific meanings. Understanding these nuances allows you to not only appreciate the beauty of a lei but also to interpret its intended message. Let’s unpack some of the floral symbolism:
- Plumeria: This fragrant flower is perhaps the most iconic Hawaiian lei flower. It symbolizes beauty, charm, and positive energy. A plumeria lei is a general expression of aloha and is appropriate for any occasion.
- Orchid: Orchids represent love, beauty, and refinement. An orchid lei is often given to someone special, signifying deep affection and admiration. The purple dendrobium orchid is a common and long-lasting choice.
- Pikake: This delicate white flower, also known as Arabian jasmine, is highly prized for its intoxicating fragrance. Pikake symbolizes love, romance, and passion. It’s a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions. The name “pikake” comes from Princess Ka’iulani, who loved peacocks (pīkake in Hawaiian) and the flower’s fragrance reminded her of them.
- Ilima: This small, delicate flower comes in various shades of yellow, orange, and red. Ilima symbolizes royalty, honor, and respect. In ancient Hawaii, Ilima lei were reserved for ali’i (chiefs) and are often presented to individuals of high standing or achievement. Making an Ilima lei is incredibly labor-intensive, requiring hundreds of tiny blossoms, which adds to its value and prestige.
- Loco Rose: While not traditionally Hawaiian, its presence is a vibrant addition, Loco Rose symbolizes joy, friendship, and new beginnings thus making it a great welcoming gift.
- Tuberose: Tuberose is intensely fragrant, and its scent is known for its calming and sensual qualities. Tuberose lei symbolize sensuality, love, and new beginnings. They are often used in weddings and other celebrations of love and commitment.
- Maile: This fragrant vine is not technically a flower, but it’s a very important element in Hawaiian lei making. Maile symbolizes peace, respect, and good luck. It has a strong connection to Hawaiian mythology and is often used in ceremonies and celebrations. Maile lei are usually draped open around the neck, rather than closed like a floral lei.
- Kukui Nuts: These shiny black nuts are often used in lei making to represent enlightenment, protection, and guidance. Kukui nut lei are often given as a sign of respect and admiration. Burned kukui nut oil was also used for light, representing knowledge and clarity.
- Shells: Shell lei symbolize prosperity, good fortune, and connection to the ocean. Different types of shells may have specific meanings. Cowry shells, for example, are often associated with abundance and fertility.
- Feathers: Feather lei were traditionally reserved for royalty and high-ranking chiefs. They symbolize power, status, and divine connection. Feather lei are incredibly intricate and time-consuming to create, making them highly valuable and prized.
The color of the flowers can also play a role in the lei’s message. Red often symbolizes passion and love, while yellow represents friendship and happiness. White signifies purity and spirituality, while pink can convey gentleness and affection. Let the aloha spirit guide you!
Lei Making Techniques
Lei making is an art form that requires skill, patience, and a deep understanding of the materials. There are several different techniques used to create lei, each resulting in a unique style and appearance. Here are some of the most common methods:
- Kui: This is the most common method of lei making, involving stringing flowers together using a needle and thread. Kui lei can be made with a single type of flower or a combination of different flowers and materials. This method is used for making plumeria lei, orchid lei, and pikake lei, among others. You can start from one end, string the flowers, and bring the needle back in order to hold the flower in place.
- Haku: This technique involves braiding or weaving flowers and foliage onto a backing of plant fibers, such as raffia or ti leaves. Haku lei are often more elaborate and three-dimensional than kui lei. Haku lei are commonly used for head lei (lei po’o) and shoulder lei. You would start with the base material and slowly start weaving the desired flower, turning it into an extremely customized lei.
- Wili: This method involves wrapping flowers and foliage around a base of plant fibers using a continuous strand of string or yarn. Wili lei are known for their lush, full appearance. This lei is done by layering and wrapping the flora around the base and securing them.
- Hili: This technique involves braiding or plaiting strands of natural materials, such as hau bark or coconut fibers, and then adding flowers or other embellishments. Hili lei are often used for lei that are meant to be durable and long-lasting. This is a more traditional lei making technique.
- Kipo’o: This technique is used for making lei po’o (head lei) and involves attaching flowers and foliage to a base of lauhala (woven pandanus leaves). Kipo’o lei are often worn for special occasions, such as weddings and hula performances.
Learning to make lei is a wonderful way to connect with Hawaiian culture. Many local organizations and community centers offer lei making workshops. Check community calendars in major cities such as Honolulu or Hilo for local classes. These workshops often teach the basic techniques of kui, haku, and wili, and provide participants with the materials and guidance they need to create their own beautiful lei.
The Protocol of Giving and Receiving Lei
There are certain customs and etiquette associated with giving and receiving lei. Following these guidelines shows respect for Hawaiian culture and ensures that the lei is presented and received in the proper spirit.
- Presenting a Lei: When giving a lei, it is customary to place it gently around the recipient’s neck, accompanied by a hug or a kiss on the cheek. The lei should be presented with a smile and a warm greeting, such as “Aloha!” It’s considered rude to toss a lei at someone or to simply hand it to them without any ceremony. When giving a head lei, make sure to ask for permission before placing it on the recipient’s head.
- Receiving a Lei: When receiving a lei, accept it with gratitude and appreciation. It’s customary to keep the lei on for as long as the giver is present. Removing the lei immediately after receiving it can be seen as disrespectful. If you need to remove the lei for any reason, do so discreetly and with apologies. Do not throw the lei away in the trash. Instead, return it to the earth by hanging it on a tree or laying it on a grave.
- Lei and Pregnancy: There’s a superstition about pregnant women and closed lei. It is believed that a closed lei can symbolize the umbilical cord wrapped around the baby’s neck. However, this is just a superstition, and it is perfectly acceptable for pregnant women to wear lei. Many lei makers will simply make sure that the lei isn’t too tight.
- Respectful Disposal: Never throw a lei in the trash. As mentioned previously, return it to nature. You can hang it on a tree branch, lay it on flowers in a garden, or return it to the ocean. This shows respect for the lei and the aloha it represents.
Where to Buy Lei in Hawaii
You’ll find lei vendors all over Hawaii, from airports and hotels to farmers’ markets and roadside stands. Here are some of the best places to buy fresh, beautiful lei:
- Honolulu Airport (HNL): Several lei stands are located in the arrival areas of Honolulu Airport. This is a convenient option for purchasing lei as soon as you arrive in Hawaii. Expect to pay a premium for the convenience of buying a lei straight after your arrival. Typical, a simple plumeria lei can range from $20 – $30.
- Lei Stands in Chinatown, Honolulu: Chinatown offers a variety of lei shops with competitive prices. You can find a wide selection of lei made from different flowers and materials. Expect a more authentic experience here.
- Maunakea Marketplace, Honolulu: This open-air marketplace in Chinatown is home to several lei vendors offering fresh, affordable lei. This is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
- Farmers’ Markets: Many farmers’ markets throughout Hawaii sell locally grown flowers and handmade lei. This is a great way to support local farmers and artisans. Check out the Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation website for a list of farmers’ markets on each island. Look for local markets in Hilo, Kona or Waimea for Big Island options.
- Roadside Stands: You’ll often find small roadside stands selling lei, especially in tourist areas. These stands often offer a more personalized experience, and you may be able to request custom lei.
Cost: The price of a lei can vary depending on the type of flowers used, the complexity of the design, and the location where it’s purchased. A simple plumeria lei can cost between $5 and $15, while more elaborate lei made with orchids or pikake can cost $20 or more. Feather lei and shell lei are typically the most expensive, ranging from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the materials and craftsmanship. Consider the occasion, the recipient, and your budget when selecting a lei.
Making Your Own Lei
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making your own lei. This is a fun and rewarding way to connect with Hawaiian culture and create a personalized gift. Here are some tips for making your own lei:
- Gather Materials: You’ll need flowers, foliage, a needle, strong thread (such as dental floss or fishing line), and scissors. You can gather flowers from your own garden (if you have permission) or purchase them from a local florist or farmers’ market. Select fresh, vibrant flowers that are free of blemishes.
- Prepare the Flowers: Remove the stems from the flowers, leaving about an inch of stem attached. This will make it easier to string the flowers together.
- Thread the Needle: Cut a length of thread about twice the desired length of your lei. Thread the needle and tie a knot at the end of the thread.
- String the Flowers: Gently pierce the base of each flower with the needle, threading it onto the thread. Continue stringing flowers until you have reached the desired length. Space the flowers closely together to create a full, lush lei.
- Tie the Ends: Once you have strung all the flowers, carefully remove the needle and tie the two ends of the thread together securely. Trim any excess thread.
- Finishing Touches: You can add finishing touches to your lei, such as adding leaves or other embellishments. You can also spray the lei with water to keep the flowers fresh.
Consider taking a lei making class from a local expert. It’s a fun and informative way to learn the proper techniques and gain a deeper appreciation for this art form!
Practical Examples: Occasions and Lei Choices
Let’s look at specific situations where a certain lei would be appropriate:
- Graduation: A vibrant lei of mixed flowers, especially plumeria and orchids, is a popular choice to celebrate this milestone. A lei of candy or money is also common.
- Wedding: Pikake and tuberose lei are often used for weddings, symbolizing love, romance, and new beginnings. Maile lei are also used in wedding ceremonies, representing peace and blessings.
- Birthday: A colorful lei of plumeria or orchids is a thoughtful gift for a birthday. Consider the recipient’s favorite colors when selecting the flowers.
- Welcome: A simple plumeria lei is a welcoming gesture for visitors to Hawaii. It’s a symbol of aloha and hospitality.
- Farewell: A lei can also be given as a farewell gift, expressing good wishes and fond memories. Yellow flowers are often used for farewells, symbolizing friendship and happiness.
- Thank You: A lei is a sincere way to express gratitude. Choose flowers that represent appreciation and respect, such as orchids or ilima.
- Congratulations: Whether it’s a new job, a new home, or any other achievement, a lei is a perfect way to say “Congratulations!” Bright and cheerful flowers like plumeria and orchids are a great choice.
Respecting the Culture
As a visitor to Hawaii, it’s important to be mindful of the cultural significance of lei and to treat them with respect. By understanding the history, symbolism, and etiquette associated with lei, you can show your appreciation for Hawaiian culture and ensure that your lei giving and receiving is done in a respectful and meaningful way.
Addressing Misconceptions
There are some common misconceptions about lei that are important to address:
- Lei are only for tourists: While lei are often given to tourists as a welcoming gesture, they are an integral part of Hawaiian culture and are used for a wide variety of occasions by locals.
- Lei are only made of flowers: While floral lei are the most common type, lei can also be made of shells, feathers, seeds, nuts, leaves, and other natural materials.
- All lei are created equal: The value and significance of a lei depend on the materials used, the craftsmanship involved, and the occasion for which it’s given.
By dispelling these misconceptions, we can gain a more accurate and nuanced understanding of the role of lei in Hawaiian culture.
Innovations in Lei Making
While traditional lei making techniques remain popular, there are also innovations happening in the field. Some lei makers are experimenting with new materials, such as recycled plastics and sustainable fabrics. Others are incorporating technology into their designs, such as using LED lights to create illuminated lei. These innovations are helping to keep the art of lei making alive and relevant in the 21st century.
Sustainable Lei Practices
With increasing awareness of environmental issues, there’s a growing movement towards sustainable lei practices. This includes using locally grown flowers, reducing waste, and avoiding the use of harmful chemicals. Some lei makers are also creating lei using biodegradable materials, such as paper and natural fibers. These sustainable practices help to protect the environment and preserve the beauty of Hawaii for future generations.
Lei in Modern Hawaiian Society
Today, lei continue to play an important role in Hawaiian society. They are given for all sorts of occasions, from casual greetings to formal ceremonies. Lei are also used in hula performances, where they add to the beauty and grace of the dancers. The art of lei making is passed down from generation to generation, ensuring that this cultural tradition remains vibrant and alive.
FAQ Section
What is the best way to store a lei to keep it fresh?
To keep your lei fresh for as long as possible, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag or container. Store it in the refrigerator. Avoid placing heavy items on top of the lei, as this can damage the delicate flowers. With proper care, a lei can last for several days.
Can I ship lei to the mainland?
Yes, you can ship lei to the mainland, but it’s important to choose a reputable shipper that specializes in perishable items. The lei should be shipped overnight to ensure that it arrives fresh. Keep in mind that some flowers may not be allowed to be shipped to certain states due to agricultural restrictions. Check with the shipping company for specific regulations.
What do I do with a lei that has sentimental value but is starting to wilt?
If you have a lei with sentimental value that is starting to wilt, you can try preserving it. One option is to press the flowers between the pages of a heavy book. Another option is to dry the lei by hanging it upside down in a cool, dry place. Once the lei is dried, you can display it in a shadow box or other decorative container.
Are there any flowers that should never be used in a lei?
There are no specific flowers that should never be used in a lei, but some flowers are considered less desirable due to their short lifespan or unpleasant fragrance. Avoid using flowers that are poisonous or known to cause allergic reactions. It’s always best to choose fresh, vibrant flowers that are appropriate for the occasion.
How can I learn more about lei making?
Many community colleges throughout Hawaii offer workshops or certificate series and local museums offer one day experiences to make lei. Many local organizations and community centers offer lei making workshops. Check community calendars in major cities such as Honolulu or Hilo for local classes. Online resources provide detailed instructions and tutorials.
References
- Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation Website
Ready to experience the magic of lei for yourself? Whether you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, attending a Hawaiian-themed event, or simply want to share the aloha spirit with someone special, consider giving the gift of a lei. Support local lei makers, learn about the symbolism of different flowers, and embrace the rich cultural heritage that this beautiful tradition represents. Go ahead, spread some aloha – one lei at a time!
