Married in Paradise: Hawaiian Weddings

Hawaiian weddings are a fun cultural event that allows people to experience the physical beauty of the island while also immersing themselves in Polynesian culture. Hawaiian weddings are so culturally enriching that many customs are now incorporated into wedding cultures all around the world. Hawaiian people truly embody the Aloha Spirit which embodies commitment to treat oneself and others with kindness, respect and love.

One of the most important symbols used in a Hawaiian wedding is the flower lei. The Lei is worn by the bride, groom and members of the wedding party. The Lei garlands are exchanged between the bride and the groom during the wedding ceremony. They are used to express the respect and love the bride and groom have for each other while also symbolising the devotion and commitment they have. The Lei is similar to the wedding ring as it serves as an unbroken circle representing eternity. The bride will usually wear the lei in her hair. 

Just like most other weddings, music is an essential part of Hawaiian weddings. The ‘Hawaiian wedding song’ is either played at the ceremony or reception. This song is known as the, Ke Kali Nei Au. The most popular version of this song is the english version sung by Elvis Presley in the film, Blue Hawaii. 

In terms of dress code, a Hawaiian wedding consists of the Bride and Groom wearing all white while the rest of men wear aloha shirts with plain pants. The women tend to wear nice Hawaiian dresses.

The rings blessing is another important part of Hawaiian weddings because of the meaning it holds. The wedding rings are sprinkled with water which has been mixed with Koa wood and a Tea Leaf. Koa Wood represents strength and integrity while the Tea Leaf represents health and prosperity. While the water is being sprinkled over the rings a chant is recited. 

The traditional feast that takes place at an Hawaiian wedding will usually include lots of seafood. Many meats that are eaten at Hawaiian weddings such as fish and chicken are wrapped in ti leafs for preparation. This method is referred to as Laula. Many of the meats and fruits eaten at the wedding are from the local produce.

One of the most interesting parts of an Hawaiian wedding is the wedding dance. The Pandangoo dance isn't a traditional Hawaiian dance but is performed at many Hawaiian weddings by natives of the Phillipines. Money is tied around to the bride and groom while they dance. This is just one example of the many customs from all over the world that are incorporated into Hawaiian weddings 

References:

https://www.theknot.com/content/hawaii-wedding-traditions

http://www.mywedding.com/wedding-ideas/advice/aloha-spirit-101-an-intro-to-hawaiian-wedding-traditions/

http://www.hawaiiweddinglove.com/island-wedding-traditions/

https://au.pinterest.com/pin/365143482263722439/

https://au.pinterest.com/pin/350436414726724052/

http://weddingandtravelblog.blogspot.com.au/2012_12_01_archive.html

http://www.alohaislandweddings.com/

By: Ella Gregory