Hawaii Weddings

Most people that have Hawaii weddings are not native to the islands. They choose Hawaii for its lush landscapes, white sandy beaches and gorgeous views of the ocean. Another reason Hawaii weddings are so special is that they give the couple the opportunity to incorporate Hawaiian traditions into their own conventional wedding traditions, making their ceremony truly unique. Weddings are full of symbolism and tradition, and none more so than Hawaii weddings.

Hawaii weddings generally begin with an exchange of Leis. A lei is a garland of flowers, usually fresh from the island and symbolic of the beautiful flora that grows there. The lei exchange is done for a few different reasons. Like the wedding ring, the lei is a complete circle which represents the commitment the couple is making and their never-ending love. They also play an important part in Hawaii weddings because the lei represents the combination of two people becoming one but never losing their individuality. Just as the flowers of a lei don't lose any of their beauty when they become a part of the it, but beome more lovely as a part of a whole.

Many couples choose to have their Hawaii weddings on the beach in front of the ocean for its beauty. What they may not realize is that even this contains symbolism. The Pacific Ocean that you look out onto while you exchange your vows contains two very different perspectives. On the surface it is constantly changing and often times turbulent. However, under the surface plants are growing, aquatic creatures have made their home; it is much more stable than it seems on the surface. This is a significant location and common in Hawaii weddings because a relationship may look one way from the outside but is much different below the surface. A couple may not seem like they are close because they don't spend every waking hour together and their lives are constantly changing, but beneath this surface they share great strength and steadiness.

Another beautiful custom of Hawaii weddings is the gathering of sand for the sand unity ceremony. The family members of the bride and groom each gather sand from the beach and present two containers of sand that represent the two families. During the ceremony, the bride and groom take the sand from their respective families and pour it together, symbolizing the two families coming together. This is similar to the lighting of the unity candle, a traditional wedding custom. The use of sand in Hawaii weddings is attractive to many couples for several reasons. The sand can be gathered at the ceremony and will consist of the sand that the couple is married on. Once the sand is poured together, it can never be separated again. The couple can also take the sand container home and it will serve as a constant reminder of their union.

Couples that choose Hawaii weddings will not have to leave all of their traditions behind on the mainland. The wedding official performing the ceremony should be familiar with Hawaii weddings and the traditions involved, as well as open to the ideas that you as a couple bring along. Consider reading your wedding vows in English as well as Hawaiian, or other special readings such as the Lord's Prayer or scriptures in both languages as well. Hawaii weddings and their customs combined with customs of your own can make this ceremony one that no one witnessing it will soon forget.