Leis of Love

My mom is making me a lei for my wedding. A lei is a garland that is worn around the neck or forehead as decoration.  It can be made from any type of material, but traditionally the lei is made from nuts, leaves, and flowers. 

Pikake and Pakalana

Pikake

Personally, I want a three strand pikake lei because the  flowers  look like pearls when they're all strung together, and smell amazingly beautiful.  I think this type of lei will look best with my more traditional wedding dress.  But leis can be made in all different patterns and with a variety of flowers.

purple orchid

Traditionally leis had sacred uses related to the reverence of gods, but they also have a history of social use for celebrations. 

Microginger

Today leis are often given during times of celebration.  They are used as gifts between friends or loved ones during special occasions.  A lei is something that takes time and love to create and those gifts are given with the lei itself.  The lei serves as a sign of affection.

Traditionally, leis were give by bowing slightly and raising the lei above one's heart.  The recipient could then take the lei and place it upon his/her body.  Raising one's hands above another person's head or touching a person's head or face were seen as signs of disrespect. Today, the lei is often placed around the neck of the recipient with a kiss.

double sided green orchid

When disposing of a lei, don't just throw it in the trash.  The lei is a symbol of love, the gift of love given to the recipient.  Tossing the lei also throws away that love.  Traditionally, the flowers should be returned to the sacred place from which they were gathered.  But, since this is often impossible, the lei should be returned to the earth in a natural process.  Hanging the lei to dry, burying the lei, or burning the lei are suggested means of disposal.