Hawaiian Wedding Traditions

Blowing of the Conch Shell

The traditional conch shell can be thought of as the equivalent to a brass instrument (like a trumpet) to the Polynesians. The blowing of the conch shell (pu in Hawaiian) is a fitting way to begin any Hawaiian wedding ceremony. The long, deep call of the pu is believed to summon all elements – air, fire, water, and earth – as witnesses to the ceremony. It signals that something significant is about to occur, and is usually the sign for the bride to start walking down the aisle.

The conch is very loud! Its rich, deep sound can be heard a long way away. One of the best things about it is that it helps people become fully present in the moment, and appreciate the sacredness of the ceremony in which they are participating.

Hawaiian Music

When it comes to creating a Hawaiian atmosphere at a wedding, it’s hard to go past the richness and ambiance of Hawaiian-style music. The slack key guitar and ukulele are regional instruments that make the music of the Hawaiian islands legendary. Talented musicians such as “Iz” (Israel Kamakawiwo’ole) have made songs such as  “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” very famous. Many musicians at Hawaiian weddings are able and willing to play both Hawaiian songs, as well as Hawaiian versions of your favorite wedding songs.

Getting “Lei’d”

You’ve probably heard the joke about people getting “lei’d”, right? The meaning in Hawaii is to be presented with a beautiful tropical lei or circle of flowers, which are usually seasonal. Traditionally, women have full and sweet-smelling plumeria or orchid leis, while men have a maile ti-leaf lei, which is made of the green leaves of the sacred maile plant.

At the start of the wedding ceremony, the couple exchange leis – always with a kiss as custom dictates. The leis represent softness, unity, and love. Some leis are a closed circle (like a large necklace), while others are open (in a U shape). Also, some brides choose to wear a haku lei, a beautiful floral headband that Hawaiian hula dancers sometimes wear, also.

Circle of Flowers

A circle (or heart-shaped design) of flowers is used to surround the altar or for the couple to stand together as they exchange vows, rings, and leis. This tropical circle symbolizes a ring of love surrounding the couple,