It’s hard to imagine a more enduring expression of aloha than lei. These garlands beautifully reflect our bonds with ʻāina (land), plants, and each other. That’s why we’re celebrating our 60th anniversary with lei. They embody our vision for a sustainable future, where people and plants flourish together. For this story, staff and community members made lei to share the practice and process behind this Hawaiian life way. Enjoy these behind-the-scenes photos by Erica Taniguchi that celebrate the hands and hearts of lei makers.
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When one gathers plants for lei, one also has to gather oneself. The intentions—who the lei is for, what’s the occasion, what does one want to express—all must be considered carefully. Even before the gathering begins, the lei maker has bonds to tend with the plants. Caring for the plants that provide for one’s lei is a fundamental part of the reciprocity and meaning of this cherished Hawaiian art form.
The emerald laciness of ferns. The fragile flowers of nānū (gardenia). The sculptural quality of limu kala, an endemic Hawaiian seaweed. The ʻāina (land) provides endless possibilities for lei.
Limahuli Garden staff and community members gather under our hale (house) to begin making lei. With so many beautiful plants and styles of lei making, sometimes the hardest part is getting started!
It’s exciting to see how the lei grows with each added piece. Here lei makers are using ʻaʻaliʻi seed capsules, ferns, banana flowers, and other plants each in different ways. Some are stringing them through with a needle; others are braiding theirs in a technique called lei haku.
What a joy to gift lei! Gifting a lei is a beautiful gesture that embodies the spirit of aloha. A lei made with love brings joy and connection, creating lasting memories for both the giver and the recipient.
