Why Settle for ordinary when with just a little effort you can create extraordinary The Simple Wedding www.thesimplewedding.com mckei@earthlink.net |
The History of the Hawaiian Lei
Polynesian voyagers, who took an incredible journey from Tahiti, navigating by the stars in sailing canoes. With these early settlers the lei tradition in Hawaii was born. With the advent of tourism in the islands, the lei quickly became the symbol of Hawaii to millions of visitors worldwide. During the "Boat Days" of the early 1900s, lei vendors lined the pier at Aloha Tower to welcome malihini (visitors) to the islands and kama'aina (locals) back home. It is said that departing visitors would throw their lei into the sea as the ship passed Diamond Head, in the hopes that, like the lei, they too would return to the islands again someday. Lei Etiquette There are very few "rules" when it comes to wearing a Hawaiian lei. Anyone can wear one, anytime - there need not be an occasion. 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. There are, however, a couple of "unspoken rules" one should know when receiving a lei for the first time. A lei should be a welcomed celebration of one person's affection to another. 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. And yes it is quite alright to purchase or create a Lei for yourself and wear it anytime you like. It will put a smile on your face. |
Hawaiian wedding on the grounds of the Bahia Mar Hotel in Fort Lauderdale. This beautiful little park like area, located in back of the hotel, on the Intracoastal makes such a perfect place for a small ceremony.. The flowers were flown in from Hawaii. I was so excited about receiving an authentic Hawaiian Lei. It was a first for me but Lara and Lloyd lived in the islands for several years and wanted to recreate the feeling of being in Hawaii for their wedding. It was really nice and I will remember it . |
wedding in Fort Lauderdale. The original plan was to have the ceremony on the beach but as the time arrived the beach across from the Bahia Mar was very busy ...and it was HOT. Lloyd called me shortly before the scheduled time to say they would like to use the nice area located in back of the hotel just beside the water but in an area complete with palms, tropical plants and a small, very natural looking pond of water with a little fountain. I was quite happy for the change because I was not looking forward to a hot afternoon on the beach. I met Lloyd and a friend at the entrance to the little park and was presented, by Lloyd, a beautiful lei of yellow plumeria, (also known as fransypansy. (sp) The fragrance was fantastic.. They had ordered, not only the Leis but loose flowers as well. These were strewn along the walkway and in the area where the bride and groom stood. It was a beautiful wedding. |
- How you can Create Your Hawaiin Wedding.
Have you dreamed of getting married in Hawaii? Many people do but the price can be a little stiff and now with the
economy as it is it would be even more difficult. However...If you are getting married in south Florida you already
have the background for your FLORIDA HAWAIIAN WEDDING.
We have so many places here in the Fort Lauderdale area . Places like the Bahia Mar or the Lago Mar are really well
suited for a tropical wedding. There is the Sundy House in Delray, and Flamingo Gardens just west of Fort
Lauderdale. There is a park called Robbins preserve near Flamingo. In north Broward there is Fern Forest which has
a great building which provides an outside area (under roof) perfect for the ceremony and an largr room well set up
for a reception. These are but few of the locations that come to mind but there are many more. Just look around
you, if you live here, check out the little parks in your neighborhood. The possibilities are endless.
Now for your flowers. I am including two links to florists in Hawaii that ship flowers. The lei which I received was
very fresh after having made it's long trip.
www.hawaiianleicompany.com
www.hawaiiflowerlei.com
Dressing For the Ocassion:
This wedding can save you money on your attire. No need for renting a tux for him or an expensive wedding
gown. Also you will be comfortable in your cotton, softly flowing clothing. White for your both. And shoes...
what could be better than white rubber sandals, flip flops if you will. By all means get the ones that say
bride and groom or dress the brides sandals up with jewels.
Are You Inspired Yet?
I hope I have given you a couple of ideas for creating a wonderful, memorable, wedding. A wedding that is within
your budget and still fulfilles your dreams. It can be done. I see it over and over again when I provide ceremonies for
couples.
About Your Ceremony
When I work with couple in the preparation of their ceremony I encourage them to have input into the ceremony.
Just tell me what your favorite readings are, write your own vows and if there are children be sure to include them in
the big day.
I would love to be your OFFICIANT and if I can offer help or advise please give me a call at 954-254-6216. I would
love to hear from you. Till then ALOHA...
This website is created by Donna Merritt for use with thesimplewedding.com website
Broward, Miami Dade and Palm Beach Counties Home |