Hawaiian Culture Weddings
Hawaiian weddings promise couples the same attractions as other tropical destinations -- brilliant sunlight, rhythmic tides and natural shorelines. Yet only Hawaii offers a distinct blend of Polynesian, Western, Filipino and Asian rituals in its cultural wedding ceremony.
Polynesian Traditions
Polynesian wedding customs celebrate nature and family. According to AlohaIslandWeddings.com, these traditions include a beach setting, tiki torches, the blowing of the pu (conch shell), lei (flower necklace) exchange, a sand ceremony, ukulele music and special blessings by the kahu (minister). For example, during the sand ceremony, multicolored sand is mixed together and poured out symbolizing two lives becoming one.
American Influence
After Hawaii became the 50th state in 1959, American tourism greatly increased the impact of Western culture on Hawaiian weddings. Today these ceremonies often contain similar U.S. religious and secular customs such as the ring exchange and blessing.
Asian and Filipino Customs
The state's Chinese, Japanese and Filipino populations also influence Hawaiian wedding traditions. Common customs include fireworks for protection (China); a money dance for good luck (Philippines); and origami cranes for long life and happiness (Japan).
Famous Ties
Elvis' famous "Hawaiian Wedding Song" is often played during these ceremonies, according to WorldWeddingTraditions.com.
Considerations
Couples may pick and choose from the various cultural traditions to create a wedding that is truly their own and represents them as a couple.
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