If you have decided to get married in Hawaii, you have undoubtedly fallen in love with the stunning beauty of the islands. But do you know that the local culture is also worth embracing and incorporating into your ceremony? Western, Asian, and Polynesian cultures have greatly influenced Hawaii’s multicultural history, which is why these island unions are full of fantastic rituals.
There are plenty of unique elements that pay homage to some of the most ancient Hawaii wedding traditions. They also celebrate the spirit of Aloha (love). So, join us as we explore everything, from exchanging the leis to the hula dance, and many other Hawaii customs that modern couples can include in their ceremony.
Handwashing Pre-wedding Ritual
Hawaii’s culture is one of many that have pre-wedding rituals. Handwashing, for example, signifies purification through forgiveness to release the past and embrace love in the present. Another meaning of it is forgiveness, which prepares you and cleanses your heart for what is to come. It’s a way to create space in our hearts in order to embrace the union and is an excellent way to show that we are not pushing the past away but rather embracing it.
How is this done? It’s a rather simple Hawaii custom where you, as a couple, wash each other’s hands as a token to forgive one another through your love and union.
The Oli Aloha Ritual
In the days before the 1820s, Hawaiians used poems, songs, and chants to record their history. This is because there was no written language at the time. For that reason, Hawaiian ceremonies usually start with Oli Aloha. The chant expresses joy and longing, preparing the space for blessings while at the same time welcoming the happy couple and their guests.
Hawaiian Ring Blessing
The Hawaii wedding tradition of blessing the couple’s rings is full of meaning. This Hawaii custom uses Ti leaf, Koa wood, and water. Each of these three items has a specific symbolism. The water symbolizes the couple’s brand new beginnings as spouses. Koa symbolizes strength and integrity, while Ti leaf represents prosperity and good health.
The rings are dipped into the wooden ball of water, after which the officiant sprinkles the rings with water three times, chanting, “May peace from above rest upon you and remain with you now and forever.”
Exchange of Leis
Representing a gesture of aloha, it is common for couples to go for the Hawaii wedding tradition that includes exchanging leis (flower garlands) after the ring ceremony. These garlands represent respect and the Aloha spirit and are a symbol of love. The exchange signifies a spiritual bond between the couple that strengthens their relationship.
The garland usually differs between the bride and the groom. The bride is given a pikake lei (fragrant jasmine garland), while the groom receives a Ti leaf lei. Depending on the ceremony location, the leis will be decorated with different colors and flowers. For example, the yellow Puailima flower is usually used in Oahu, while the pink Lakelani rose is commonly used for ceremonies in Maui.
Blowing the Pū
The Pū is a conch shell horn used as an ancient Hawaiian fanfare. In the past, it was used to call attention to a significant event like the entrance of Hawaiian Nobles, the arrival of canoes, or as a means of communication between neighboring villages. Today, the Pū, as one of the most recognizable Hawaii wedding traditions, is used in different ways: to announce marriage, call for a gathering, bless a home, or when the couple shares their first kiss.
The Sand Ceremony
Sand ceremonies are typically held during Hawaiian beach weddings. It’s a tradition representing the union of two people as a couple and, if applicable, the blending of their families. The bride and groom are each given a container filled with sand from the beach, where the ceremony is taking place. They then pour the sand into a small bag to seal the union.
The Hula Dance
Although the hula dates back to ancient times, it is one of the most typical and well-known dances that are part of Hawaii wedding traditions. This hypnotic and elegant dance symbolizes various emotions and elements of nature. The dance itself is used to preserve the Hawaiian cultural heritage, but it also serves as a way to honor the ancestors.
Each movement, expression, and gesture used in the hula dance has a specific meaning. This is why dance is considered a form of storytelling rather than a form of art. Dancers can use the hula to narrate legends and historical events through their performances.
The Hula dance can be done in several ways. One is when the bride performs a special hula for her husband during the ceremony. This represents a symbolic and very intimate gesture, where the bride declares her love and commitment through the graceful movements of the hula. Sometimes, the couple decides to hire a troop of dancers to perform the hula during the ceremony.
Pili ā Nai Kealoha
The name of this Hawaii wedding tradition is translated as “love than binds,” and it involves tying the couple’s hands with a Maile lei, a traditional wedding garland. An accompanying Hawaiian Oli chant is used during the ceremony, which is equivalent to the candle or sand ceremony.
Maile lei is made with twisted dark green wines and decorated with fragrant Arabian, jasmine, or white orchid. Being one of the oldest leis, it symbolizes respect, a desire for peace, and enduring devotion.
Why Include Some Of The Hawaii Wedding Traditions?
Including the customs of where you plan to tie the knot is a sign of respect. The islands have one of the richest cultures and some very interesting traditional Hawaii wedding traditions you can include in your wedding ceremony. Whichever one of the above ceremonies you choose will surely be interesting for both you and your guests.
For more information on Hawaii wedding traditions, continue exploring our blogs and visit the “Locations” and “Wedding Packages” pages. Moreover, fill out our contact form to inquire about our Hawaii wedding minister services and start turning your vision into reality.
