Why hawaiians give leis

A haku or flower crown is also acceptable for pregnant women. Men often wear lei constructed of ti leaf, kukui nuts or leaves, and grooms are often seen wearing a maile lei , and open-ended lei made of maile vine, symbolizing royalty. To properly get rid of a lei, return it to where it came from by hanging it on a tree limb or bury it in your backyard.

If you wish to send it in the ocean, unstring it first, then send the flowers or leaves into the waves. The relaxed culture and soaring views are just the beginning of what Upcountry Maui has to offer. For more information or to make your reservation today, visit: www. It is perfectly fine for one to purchase or make a lei for themselves. It is common for locals to have a nut, seed or shell lei on hand to wear on special occasions.

And hats are often adorned with flower, fern or feather leis. Therefore, always accept a lei, never refuse. The proper way to wear a lei is gently draped over the shoulders, hanging down both in front and in back. It is considered rude to remove a lei from your neck in the presence of the person who gave it to you, so if you must, be discreet.

Lei giving is a regular part of any special occasion such as birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and graduations. It is not uncommon for a graduating senior to have so many leis around their neck that they can no longer see! A safe return to Hawaii was ensured if their lei drifted to shore. On May Day, most parents request to take a day off of work so they can watch their children participate in May Day festivities and programs at school.

Everyone in Hawaii is encouraged to wear a lei on May Day. Lei Etiquette Leis can be worn, received, or given for almost any occasion. In Hawaii, a lei is given for an office promotion, a birthday, an anniversary, a graduation, or any special event. Never refuse a lei! Always graciously accept the lei with a toothy smile and a kiss on the cheek. If you are allergic or sensitive to flowers, then discreetly and apologetically slip-off the lei.

It is acceptable and considered a kind gesture to offer the lei to your spouse if you are unable to wear it. 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.