ORCHid LEI GREETING
The tradition of receiving and giving a lei began with early Polynesian voyagers who embarked on the strenuous journey from Tahiti to the Hawaiian Islands. The word lei can represent singular and plural meanings, since “leis” is technically not a Hawaiian word. A lei is any series of objects strung together with the intent of being worn. Lei are constructed of flowers, leaves, sea shells, seeds, nuts, feathers or even bones of various animals.
A lei is a common symbol of love, friendship, celebration, honor or greeting. In essence, it is a symbol of Aloha. In ancient Hawaii, wearing a lei represented wealth, royalty and rank. It is also associated with hula, religion and geography.