"Lei" (pronounced lay) is the Hawaiian term for a garland or wreath. A lei can be made of almost any natural material
- flowers, leaves, shells, dried pods or seeds or nuts, even feathers - alone or strung together in any combination for the desired effect.
- flowers, leaves, shells, dried pods or seeds or nuts, even feathers - alone or strung together in any combination for the desired effect. The most common style for a lei in Hawaiian culture is a wreath of flowers, or a strand including flowers, that is intended to be worn draped around the neck. These leis are often presented as a gift of Aloha and warm affection to friends, guests and family members when they arrive or as they depart. Tourists may be familiar with the lei greeting sometimes offered as they arrive on the islands, but giving a lei as a parting gift is equally appropriate.
The custom of making leis is believed to come to the Hawaiian Islands through the early Polynesian voyagers who settled here. The Hawaiians didn't limit leis to gifts; they also wore them to beautify themselves and distinguish themselves from others.
How do you receive a lei observing the traditional culture? Recognize the lei is a celebration of one person’s affection for another. It s consider bad manners to refuse the gift of a lei. The traditional giving of a lei allows the receiver to take and place it over the head on his or her shoulders.
How do you wear a lei correctly? The lei should be draped over your shoulders, hanging down both in front and in back. Don't remove it, at least not in front of the person who gave you the lei! That is considered extremely rude, a rejection of their affection.
How do you gift someone with a lei observing the traditional culture? You may find that a lei is often given with a kiss, a modern custom which began in World War II. Traditionally the lei is given by bowing slightly and raising it above your heart, allowing the recipient to take it and place it on themselves. In traditional Hawaiian culture raising your hands above someone’s head or touching their head - unless invited - is considered disrespectful.
Our culture is very relax in most respects so don't be concerned if your etiquette isn't perfect. Leis are a gift of affectionate welcome or fond farewell. Give or receive a lei with the spirit of that Aloha and you will be doing it "Island-style"!
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