Hawaiian Craze

When you think Hawaii, visions of the beautiful tropical landscapes, water, flowers and leis are some of the first things to come to our minds. Visitors to Hawaii are often met with flower leis upon their arrival, making for a very warm welcome. This tradition was said to be started during the early 1800’s, when lei vendors welcomed visitors to the islands and locals back to their homeland. Visitors leaving the island would throw their leis back into the sea as they left, hoping that like the lei, they would return to the islands again.

Leis are used on many occasions, even though no special occasion is necessary. Hawaiian leis can be given to mark an important event such as birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, graduations and even funerals.

The lei custom was brought to the Hawaiian Islands by early Polynesian voyagers. The leis were not only made of flowers, but shells, seeds, nuts, feathers and leaves as well. One of the very popular leis is the Maile leaf lei, which is sweetly perfumed and has many variations of leaves. The lei Maile was associated with the worship of the gods of hula.

The lei most visitors to the islands have seen is the Plumeria Lei. Plumeria trees flourish on the islands and come in a variety of colors, their flowers peaking between the months of March and November. One of the most exotic leis is the Okika, or Orchid Lei. They are lightly scented and come in a variety of colors too, the most familiar being the purple flower. Orchids are usually available year round.

Lei etiquette - There are some things you should know when receiving a lei and when giving a lei for the first time. Always accept a lei, as it is in very poor taste to refuse. The correct way to wear a lei is gently draped over the shoulders, hanging down both in the front and in the back. It is considered rude to remove a lei from your neck in the presence of the person who gave it to you, so do it elsewhere! When you receive more than one lei on occasion, it is acceptable to let them overlap each other. When giving the lei, drape it carefully over the person’s shoulders so that it hangs evenly in front and back, give a kiss on one or both cheeks, and wish them well.

What does “Aloha” mean?

It is used as a greeting and also to say goodbye….the most basic meaning is love and friendship. Following is another way to explain what it truly means….

A Akahai, kindness, gentleness and tenderness
L Lokahi, to obtain unity and harmony
O ‘Olu’ olu, agreeable, happiness, congeniality and contentment
H Ha’ aha’ a, humility, humbleness and modesty
A Ahonui, patience and perseverance

Decorating in a Hawaiian or tropical theme is very popular today, in fact the theme has spread across every room in the house.

Bedrooms and bathrooms seem to be the top choices, for adults as well as the kids. The surfer decorating theme is especially popular among boys from pre-teen to college ages.

If you think about it, Hawaiian style decor is easy to do, and it does not have to cost a fortune! Here are some ideas for decorating various areas of your home:

Grass skirt from party supplies make a great alternative to traditional bed skirts.

An old surf board (garage sales are good for this one) make great wall pieces.

Tropical record album covers (another garage sale goody) can be hung by purchasing an LP Album Frame, Single .

Batik cotton fabric can make great tropical-looking tablecloths, pillows, napkins, etc.

Your shell collection - every self-respecting beach lover has one - would add that tropical look to a candle centerpiece, in a decorative glass container, or even scattered on a mantle.

Check party stores and craft shops for inexpensive tropical style pieces at the end of the summer, when the demand is at its lowest. You will find some great accent ideas at a steal.