FAQs

Depending on the flower or material, lei can last as long as 2-3 weeks. Fragrant lei such as tuberose, plumeria, or puakenikeni wilt much faster than non-fragrant lei, lasting about 2-3 days. Carnation and orchid lei last about a week in the fridge. Ti leaf lei can last 7-10 days in the fridge or freezer. 

Absolutely! While flower lei might appear more feminine, it is completely acceptable for men to wear lei. If you're looking for a more masculine look, we recommend the ti leaf and/or kukui nut lei.

YES! Ulupono Leis creates custom lei based on your vision. Email us for a quote! Please keep in mind pricing depends on the flower and lei type. 

In ancient times, lei represented wealth, rank, and status worn only by royalty and chiefs. Today, lei can be worn by anyone to celebrate or acknowledge special events, or no event at all. Lei are given as a symbol of love and affection. Each flower represents an island of Hawai'i:

Maui: Loke (rose) 

Kāua'i: Mokihana (berry native to Hawai'i)

Ni'ihau: Pūpū Kahelelani (Kahelelani shells)

Lāna'i: Kauna'oa (coastal vine)

Ō'ahu: 'Ilima 

Hawai'i/Big Island: 'Ohi'a Lehua 

Moloka'i: Kukui (candlenut) 

Kaho'olawe: Hinahina (succulent flower and vine)

Of course! It is appropriate to want to buy/make a lei for yourself to celebrate an occasion or just to feel special; however, lei intended to be made or bought for someone else should not be worn by you unless you are verifying the fit and structure. Making lei for yourself is a personal choice. Supporting other lei-makers is another option should you want a lei for yourself.

May 1st signifies Lei Day in Hawai'i, a statewide holiday in which people gather for parades and other festivities in celebration of the lei and aloha spirit of the islands. Refer to these sites for more information.

https://www.leiday.org/the-history-of-lei-day/ 

https://www.honolulu.gov/rep/site/dpr/leiday_docs/Brief_History_of_Lei_Day.pdf