Discovering the Unique Art of Hawaiian Lei Making: “An Expression of Aloha”

Hawaiian Traditions: A Glimpse into the Art of Lei Making

The beauty of Hawaii is undeniable-its golden sun and turquoise surf have always left visitors breathless. Yet, amidst this stunning landscape, it’s the vibrant leis that truly capture the imagination. These colorful garlands are more than just pretty accessories; they carry the essence of Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage.

Hawaii’s islands are home to an incredible variety of flowers, each cherished for its unique fragrance. For centuries, locals have engaged in the ancient practice of lei making, a tradition introduced by early Polynesian settlers. They crafted garlands to honor the gods, and today, this practice continues with just as much reverence. Meleana Estes, a native of Hawaii, is one of many who keeps this tradition alive. She selects flowers like the fragrant puakenikeni, crafting leis that often require 300 individual blooms and hours of dedication.

Estes learned this intricate art from her grandmother, or “Tutu.” Her deep connection to the tradition inspired her to write a book called “Lei Aloha”, celebrating the art of lei making. “She was very intentional,” Estes recalls of her grandmother’s approach, noting how she would prepare with purpose, gathering flowers for a specific person with thoughtfulness.

Leis are gifted on myriad occasions, symbolizing love and aloha. Whether welcoming a guest or celebrating life’s milestones, there’s never a wrong moment to bestow a lei. Estes explains, “It’s your expression of aloha. Your love.” This tradition has a rich tapestry of meanings, each lei a personal touch of care and respect.

However, the future of lei making faces challenges. The impact of suburban sprawl and climate change threatens local flower sources. According to reports, a staggering 90 percent of flowers for leis are now imported from abroad, particularly from countries like Thailand. Andrew Mau, who runs a small Oahu boutique called ISLAND-BOY, feels this strain acutely. He remarks, “Everybody’s personal lei making stash…it’s been reduced.” The fleeting nature of flowers adds pressure, forcing creativity from scarcity.

Mau’s innovative response includes crafting “forever leis,” creations made from wood beads, seeds, and shells. These durable alternatives, which deviate from tradition, have gained popularity-often selling out. “A forever lei is our response to the perishability of flowers,” Mau explains. While these adaptations provide solutions, they also remind us of the shifting dynamics in preserving cultural traditions.

Every May 1st, Hawaii hosts the Annual Lei Day Celebration, where dozens of lei makers showcase their work, vying for accolades. This year, the award went to a traditional lei kui, celebrating timeless craftsmanship. Judge Jamie Adams Detwiler notes the challenge in selecting a winner, focusing on the emotion each lei evokes and its adherence to traditional methods.

As Hawaii grapples with these environmental and cultural challenges, the spirit of lei making persists, embodying the essence of aloha. Perhaps it’s this resilience-much like the leis themselves-that remains the most breathtaking of all.