With its crystal blue waters and black sand beaches, Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places in the world—especially when it comes to hosting your wedding. The islands have a rich cultural history that is, no doubt, important to both you and your future spouse. One of the simplest ways to make your wedding memorable and authentic is by incorporating some of these cultural elements into the ceremony and reception. This might include a Hawaiian wedding song, a kālua pig roast, and, of course, kukui nut leis.

Your Guide to Kukui Nut Leis

What Is the Kukui?

The kukui, or candlenut tree, is the official state tree of Hawaii. Ancient Hawaiians used the oil and candlenuts from this tree to produce light by making candles that could burn for hours. They also used the tree’s bark to make dye for their sacred cloths. As a result, kukui came to represent renewal, hope, and light for the Hawaiian people.

What Does It Mean to Wear a Kukui Nut Lei?

People who wear kukui nut leis are essentially bearers of light. Since candlenuts served as the first prayer beads for ancient Hawaiians, kukui leis became popular among ministers. Eventually, royalty, hula dancers, and various military leaders also began wearing these beautiful leis for protection and spiritual strength.

Tradition holds that when you hold the candlenuts in prayer, you infuse them with your own spiritual energy. Today, couples getting married in Hawaii wear kukui leis or bracelets to symbolize the joining of their individual beams of spiritual light into a single, holy glow.  

If you want to order authentic kukui nut leis for your upcoming nuptials, turn to Leis By Ron. Based in Honolulu, HI, Leis By Ron is Oahu’s largest supplier of commercial leis that are as fragrant and beautiful as they are authentic. Browse all the kukui nut leis they offer by checking out their website, or call (808) 838-1455 to order from the best flower shop on the island.