What do you say when you give a lei?

Asked by: Maria Stafford

What is a lei greeting in Hawaii?

In Hawaiian tradition, lei is a symbol of hospitality, love, respect, and aloha. Worn by both men and women, lei is gently draped over the shoulders, hanging down in front and back. The garland of beautiful, sweet-scented flowers can be worn anytime and anywhere, on special occasions, or no occasion at all.

What it means to receive a lei?

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. It is also associated with hula, religion and geography.

Is it rude to wear a lei?

Wearing a Lei



A lei can be worn by anyone, and it is appropriate for any occasion or for when there’s no occasion at all.

When given a lei never do what?

Lei Etiquette



There is one big faux pas that should never be made. Never refuse a lei! Always graciously accept the lei with a toothy smile and a kiss on the cheek. (If you don’t feel comfortable with giving or receiving a kiss on the cheek, a warm hug is acceptable!)

Do they greet you with leis in Hawaii?

As you arrive in Honolulu, you’ll experience true Hawaiian hospitality the moment you step off the plane! Your greeter will meet you at your gate with a warm “Aloha” and embrace you with a fresh Hawaiian lei.

Do you get Leid in Hawaii?

While most commercial airlines don’t provide a traditional lei greeting upon arrival in Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines offers it for a fee. Plus, there are numerous independent companies that will gladly lei you at—or just outside—the arrival gate.

Can you throw a lei in the ocean?

Never throw away your lei in the trash – that is like throwing the gift-giver’s affection away. Instead, discard your lei by throwing it in the ocean, burning it, or hanging it in a tree. The idea is to return the lei to the area from which it came, which is a sign of respect.

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.

Do you put leis on 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.

Are plastic leis offensive?

The majority of people who throw Hawaiian-themed events and who exchange cheap plastic leis do not do so to intentionally insult or harm native Hawaiians. Rather, it’s usually a decision made without thinking about its implications or the message that it sends to these people.

Can you bring a flower 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. But you need to follow some steps to make sure your lei makes it home looking fresh and beautiful.

How long will a lei 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. If a lei looks soft, you may sprinkle it with water, place in a ziploc bag or plastic bag and put back in the refrigerator to revive the flower.

How do you keep a lei alive?

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.

Can you send leis to the mainland?

Aloha and Welcome to The Hawaiian Lei Company! We specialize in shipping fresh, vibrant Hawaiian flower leis and cut flowers to the Mainland! Located in beautiful Honolulu, our masterfully crafted Hawaiian leis are guaranteed to be shipped 100% fresh or your money back!

Can I bring a plant back from Hawaii?

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) prohibits or restricts the entry of many agricultural products from Hawaii into the U.S. mainland, including most fresh fruits and vegetables and certain types of plants and flowers.

Can I bring my wedding bouquet back from Hawaii?

HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO DO



All cut flowers and foliage, including lei, must be “certified pest-free” by USDA APHIS PPQ regardless of how they are transported from Hawai’i to the U.S. Mainland (U.S. Postal Service, FedEx, UPS or other cargo shippers, as baggage or hand carried). agreement” with USDA APHIS PPQ.

How do you mail a flower lei?

They are perishable and timeliness is important we recommend keeping shipping times to two days or less.

How long does a carnation lei last?

about two days

They can also be tinted green or blue. The carnation lei will last about two days after its delivery if it is kept refrigerated. Different colors of these flowers have different meanings.

What flowers are on a lei?

lei, a garland or necklace of flowers given in Hawaii as a token of welcome or farewell. Leis are most commonly made of carnations, kika blossoms, ginger blossoms, jasmine blossoms, or orchids and are usually about 18 inches (46 cm) long. They are bestowed with a kiss as a sign of hospitality.

How much are Honolulu leis?

Oahu Lei Greeting at Honolulu International Airport

What is a cigar lei?

Cigar lei are a classic choice for men. It is made with hundreds of tiny, tube shaped cigar flowers. They blend in a mix of orange, purple, red and gold. The small flowers are sometimes said to resemble a lit cigar due to the color on the tips.

Do they sell leis at Honolulu airport?

Lei Greeting is done in the baggage claim area. Lei are also available from Florist shops and carts in the Terminals. In Terminal 1, a kiosk is located across Gate A18.