EXCHANGE OF LEIS, SHOULD YOU DO IT?
On your big day, what could be better than giving each other gifts of love? Exchanging leis at your Maui wedding is a beautiful Hawaiian tradition that it’s all about showing love, respect, and gratitude.
Leis are gorgeous wreaths made from a variety of materials, including flowers, leaves, shells, and seeds. They are usually worn around the shoulders as a necklace. These are delicately knitted by hand and there are different ways to include this rite in the ceremony depending on how the bride and groom want it to be. They can participate alone or family and guests can also be welcomed.
made from a variety of materials,
including flowers, leaves, shells, and seeds.
A little bit of history
Of course, this tradition goes back hundreds of years and is not only used for weddings but also for important events. The lei exchange is usually done as part of a larger ceremony, such as a wedding or graduation. However, it can also be a simple act of exchanging leis with someone you care about.
It isn’t just a simple wreath: for the Hawaiian culture, it has much more transcendent and deeper meanings. Since ancient times, people have used leis for important occasions in life, such as births, religious ceremonies, weddings, rites of passage, victories, or deaths, a custom that continues to this day.
Giving a lei to someone is a way of welcoming them, showing affection, respect, and thankfulness. It is a lovely (and good-smelling) way to display the essence of Aloha. ‘Aloha’ is hard to translate, but it expresses joy, hope, a greeting, a farewell, love, and many other feelings. No matter how it is done, the lei exchange is a beautiful way to show aloha.
What does this ceremony mean?
Usually, couples love incorporating this passionate tradition into their big day because this simple act represents unity. This flowered circle is a metaphor for fullness and completeness. Giving someone a lei is a way to show love, respect, and gratitude.
The moment you place a lei over your partner’s neck on your wedding day, it’s a way of showing your Aloha.
For the Hawaiian culture this tradition it’s a pure act of love and commitment. This is how you manifest your affection and honor the beauty of this special moment in your life.
How does it work?
As we said, exchanging leis it’s a symbol of love and commitment. Leis ceremonies at weddings may also include other family members, representing the union of the two families. The style of the lei exchange depends entirely on the preferences of the bride and groom.
Before this ceremony, the wedding officiant will hold and bless the leis. At the time of your choice, you will be given the leis and will be able to put them on one another while you say a few words to each other to cherish this tender and special moment.
Giving your lover a lei can be as exciting as exchanging rings. In addition to making use of the beautiful scenery, you get your wedding to include the spirit of Hawaiian culture.
This is a gift that should be treasured because at the end of the day, love it’s all about giving.
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If there’s anything else we can do for you, please do hesitate on reaching out to us.
Aloha
