How long will my lei last?
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. Carnation lei last about a week in the fridge. Ti leaf lei can last 7-10 days in the fridge or freezer.
Can I order a flower lei for a male?
Absolutely! While flower lei might appear more feminine, it is just as acceptable for men to wear them. If you're looking for a more masculine look, we recommend the ti leaf and/or kukui nut lei.
Is it lei or leis?
The Hawaiian language does not have singular or plural nouns. If you refer to more than one lei, it is still called lei. In English, you will usually hear an "s" at the end (i.e., graduation leis) which is acceptable.
What do lei mean?
Lei are given as a symbol of love and affection. Lei can be worn to celebrate or acknowledge special events, but in some cases lei are made simply out of love and for no occasion at all. In ancient times, lei represented wealth, rank, and status worn only by royalty and chiefs. Today they are worn by all. Each flower represents an island and is deemed as the official lei material of Hawai'i:
Maui: Loke (rose)
Kāua'i: Mokihana (berry native to Hawai'i)
Ni'ihau: Pūpū Kahelelani (Kahelelani shells)
Lāna'i: Kauna'oa
Ō'ahu: 'Ilima
Hawai'i/Big Island: 'Ohi'a Lehua
Moloka'i: Kukui (candlenut)
Kaho'olawe: Hinahina (white flowers with succulent leaves)
Can I order a lei for myself?
Absolutely! It is acceptable to want a lei for yourself. There is nothing wrong with ordering or even making a lei for yourself.
What is Lei Day?
Lei Day is a holiday celebrated on May 1st across all islands in Hawai'i. For more information on the signifigance and history of Lei Day, visit:
https://www.leiday.org/the-history-of-lei-day/
https://www.honolulu.gov/rep/site/dpr/leiday_docs/Brief_History_of_Lei_Day.pdf