Exploring the Aroma of Aloha: My Day with Hawaiian Lei Company & the World of Hawaiian Flowers
- tiffany6920
- Apr 4
- 4 min read
Recently, I had an amazing opportunity to visit the Hawaiian Lei Company and immerse myself in the beauty of Hawaiian flowers at their warehouse in Kaka'ako. As someone who loves flowers, I am always drawn to the lush fragrances and vibrant colors that our island offers. This visit felt like stepping into a realm filled with history, craftsmanship, and the spirit of Aloha.
From the moment I walked into the Hawaiian Lei Company, I was greeted not only by stunning blooms but also by the warm hospitality of the team. Located in the creative district of Kaka'ako, this company has been an essential part of Hawaiian lei making for decades, known for providing exquisite lei that symbolize love, honor, and friendship.
The Heart of Hawaiian Lei Company
The Hawaiian Lei Company boasts a rich history, operating as one of the best lei companies in the region since the early 1990s. They dedicate themselves to maintaining the traditional art of lei-making while adopting innovative practices that respect the environment. For instance, they use sustainable materials like locally-sourced flowers to ensure minimal impact on the ecosystem.
Walking through their warehouse felt like stepping into the floral wonderland of my dreams. The vibrant colors of flowers, from delicate pikake to robust maile, were captivating. Each bloom carried its own story, connecting each customer to the land and the culture that nurtured them. Did you know that over 100 species of flowers are commonly used in Hawaiian lei-making?
The Impact of Body Temperature on Lei-making
A fascinating aspect of my visit involved the practicalities that affect lei-making. Surprisingly, your body temperature can directly impact what lei you can create. This is a personal and intimate part of the craft.
For example, the delicate pikake flower wilts only minutes after being cut. If you tend to feel warm, working with this flower can be quite a challenge. The artisans shared practical tips for handling these fragile blooms, such as keeping them cool and working quickly.
The Demand for Maile
Another noteworthy part of my journey was learning about the Maile, a plant native to Hawai'i that carries significant cultural meaning. Maile is especially sought after during events like weddings and graduations. However, due to its high demand, local regulations now limit how much can be collected at once.
In one specific case, the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) on O'ahu has restricted harvesting to just a one gallon bag per person to promote sustainability. With Maile being integral to many special traditions, this measure ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty and significance of this plant.
During my visit, I felt a sense of responsibility, of Kuleana, to appreciate and protect the beauty surrounding me. The team shared their concerns on the industry moving forward - Not a concern for who will want them, but who will want to make them. The owners shared that many of their employees have been making lei for decades now, but the newer workforce seems to not have that same desire for lei-making. Sure, it's an incredible hobby to get into, but mix the current state of the economy with labor-intensive work, and your pickings are limited as to who would want this as a full time job within the upcoming generations.
The Art of Lei-making
As I explored the intricacies of lei-making further, I became captivated by the delicate yet strong nature of each flower. A lei represents much more than a simple arrangement; it symbolizes the essence of the islands, connecting people with nature and culture.
The artisans at the Hawaiian Lei Company showcased various styles, from simple to elaborate arrangements bursting with color and scent. Understanding that each lei reflects a labor of love transformed my perspective. It's a beautiful art and I encourage young generations to spend an afternoon making lei, to understand how rewarding it really is to create something that brings so much joy when given to others.
Engaging with the Community
What impressed me most during my visit was how the Hawaiian Lei Company connects with the local community. They frequently host workshops to educate participants about Hawaiian flowers and the art of lei-making. It was inspiring to hear how they foster a sense of community around these traditions.
Participating in a workshop offers insights into Hawaiian culture beyond the flowers. People from diverse backgrounds come together, united by a shared love for these vibrant creations. The Hawaiian Lei Company serves not only as a business but also as a community hub, filled with the Aloha spirit and blooming creativity.
The Symbolism of the Lei
Every lei carries unique meaning, and it was enlightening to discover what different flowers represent. For instance, the Maile lei symbolizes peace, love, and respect, making it a favorite choice for milestones like graduations and weddings. In contrast, the pikake symbolizes love and is often used for romantic occasions.
Final Thoughts
As my visit came to an end, I left the Hawaiian Lei Company inspired and filled with admiration for the skill involved in lei-making. I realized that there's so much more to Hawaiian flowers than what meets the eye.
The Hawaiian Lei Company's dedication to sustainability, community involvement, and appreciation for cultural significance has established a beloved place in our hearts. From the delicate Pikake to the cherished Maile, each flower tells a story: intertwining the past, present, and future.
If you get the opportunity to explore Hawaiian Lei Company like I did, I wholeheartedly recommend it. The experience is as enriching as it is fragrant, providing a meaningful way to connect with the beauty of Hawai'i.
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