Is it OK to wear a lei at graduation? Graduation leis are a great way to show your love, support and admiration for the graduate. And, it doesn’t hurt that everyone who sees the graduate gets to see how much they are loved! In Hawaii, many graduates receive so many leis for graduation that they may have trouble seeing over all of the flowers around them.
What cultures do leis at graduation? Beautiful Hawaiian Leis have long been a part of the culture and tradition of the Polynesian People. Exotic, colorful Leis were made from island flowers, leaves and other natural items such as shells, feathers, twigs intertwined.
What do leis symbolize at graduation? Offering a graduation lei to someone means that you wish them good luck in the next chapter of their life. It is also a symbol of good fortune, but it can also be used as a fashion accessory since graduation leis look elegant when matched with the standard graduate robes.
When should you not wear a lei? Last, but not least, there is one more taboo…it is considered (in Hawaii) impolite to give a closed (tied) lei to a pregnant woman. Many Hawaiians feel that a closed lei around the neck is bad luck for the unborn child. (Head Hakus and open-ended leis are acceptable to give to pregnant woman.)
Is it OK to wear a lei at graduation? – Additional Questions
What do leis symbolize?
Lei are constructed of flowers, leaves, sea shells, seeds, nuts, feathers or even bones of various animals. A lei is a common symbol of love, friendship, celebration, honor or greeting. In essence, it is a symbol of Aloha. In ancient Hawaii, wearing a lei represented wealth, royalty and rank.
What does a black lei mean?
You can get the lei from gift shops and most street-side vendors in Hawaii. This was not the case in ancient times, however, because only royalty were allowed to wear these lei made of sleek black nuts. It was a way to show the alii’s social status, as well as honor Lono, god of agriculture, peace and fertility.
What does a white lei mean?
It can be given to a man or a woman, and is often intended to show respect or appreciation. The lei can be saved indefinitely. White, Pink, or Red Carnation Leis. Leis that have white, pink, or red carnations are a symbol of love.
What do you say when you put a lei on someone?
Lei Etiquette
- Always accept aloha: Because lei are considered a symbol of affection and aloha, you should never refuse lei.
- How to wear lei: The proper way to wear lei is gently draped over the shoulders, hanging from both the front and back.
Can you take a lei home from Hawaii?
It is also nice to take it home as a memento of your amazing Hawaiian vacation. So you might be wondering, can I bring flower leis home from Hawaii? The answer is yes.
What does the kukui lei mean?
The Kukui Nut tree was a symbol of enlightenment, protection, guidance and peace, and its spiritual powers are still believed to flow through Hawaiian culture and its ceremonies. In 1959, the Kukui tree itself was made the official tree emblem for the state of Hawai’i. Kukui Nut trees are fairly easy to spot.
What does an open lei mean?
In Hawaii, there is a special type of lei that is given to pregnant women. An open-ended lei is considered the only type for a pregnant woman, as the closed type is considered unlucky for the baby. Another way to honor a pregnant woman is to present her with a head haku instead of a lei that goes around the neck.
What does a yellow lei mean?
The hala leis are made of the orange or yellow fruits of the hala tree. The goddess Hiiaka, sister of Pele but with a more reasonable temperament, is associated with these leis, which have a dual meaning. In ancient Hawaii, they were considered a symbol of lovemaking, and often thought to be an aphrodisiac.
Does the color of the lei mean anything?
There are no official meanings of the different colors of Hawaiian leis, but there are some types of leis that are commonly given for certain occasions. Meanings of the leis are often based on the material as opposed to color. Purple, green, and white leis are often made from orchids.
Are graduation leis a California thing?
Money leis began appearing in Southern California in the early 1990s, likely spurred by a connection with Hawaiian culture, said California State University Monterey Bay Anthropology lecturer Lorenzo Covarrubias. The trend has since expanded to other parts of the state.
What do you do with leis after graduation?
A lei should never be thrown away in the trash as it is considered disrespectful. It is customary to return the lei to the earth. You can either remove the flowers from the string* and scatter them in the ocean, bury them or burn them. Or simply hang the lei on a door or window to dry it out.
What is the tradition of Hawaiian money leis for graduation?
They represent good luck, wealth, and prosperity and are said to ward off evil spirits.” Money lei are incredibly intricate pieces of art, and their significance comes from the time put into their creation.
How much are leis at Costco?
In fact, you can pick up two fresh plumeria leis for $9.99. If you want to be a bit extra with more blooms, opt for the “fancy lei,” which costs $14.99 each.
Does Costco sell graduation flower leis?
Costco Fans & Finds ❤️🛒 on Instagram: “Graduation orchid lei are now at @costco!
How long do Costco leis last?
Orchid leis can last for up to 5-6 days when properly cared for. Do NOT store in freezer! It is important that they are not too hot or too cold.
How do you keep leis fresh?
Mist the leis with fresh water and put them back in the box, but not in the plastic. Store them on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator. Set your refrigerator on its warmest setting. Later, the lei may be dried out and hung up, or the leaves may be used to scent clothing.
Do you give a lei before or after graduation?
Giving the Gift of a Graduation Lei
Some rules state that the lei must be presented after the graduation ceremony is over. No matter when it is given, the gift of a graduation lei is a wish for good luck as well as to show the graduate how much they are loved and appreciated.
