In a traditional Hawaiian wedding, the fragrant garland exchanged or placed around the couple as a sign of affection is a lei.
A lei is a garland made from flowers, leaves, shells, seeds, feathers, or other natural materials. In Hawaiʻi, giving and receiving lei is associated with affection, hospitality, honor, celebration, and farewell. Weddings commonly include the exchange of floral lei by the couple or the presentation of lei by family members.
The materials can carry local and personal meaning. Plumeria, orchids, and maile are among plants associated with Hawaiian lei-making, although availability and ceremonial use vary. A maile lei, made from the fragrant leaves of a native vine, is often linked with important ceremonies and may be worn by a couple.
A lei is not simply a necklace or a hula costume accessory. Its meaning comes from the act of giving and the relationship between giver and recipient. Traditional protocols also emphasize receiving lei respectfully rather than casually discarding them.