Most important in the giving and receiving of the lei, is the spirit in which it is given and received. At the heart of the ceremony, even though small, is the love shared between both the giver and receiver. With this in mind, we have included a few traditional tips to help enhance your experience.
Giving a Lei
The most traditional way to give a lei is to place it around the receivers neck and then kiss them on the cheek. It has become more common place in our day to give a kiss while placing the lei around the person's neck. People have also been known to give a slight bow while presenting the lei and letting the receiver take the lei and place it on themselves, in an even more traditional manner.
Receiving a Lei
Declining a lei is considered disrespectful. If the person receiving the lei, cannot wear the lei for whatever reason, it is customary for the receiver to place it in a prominent place so as to show respect and gratitude for the gesture.
Wearing the Lei
Closed leis are usually on the shoulders, half hanging in the back and half hanging in the front. Opened leis are left with the open ends hanging in front, and should be centered on the back of the persons neck. Tradition holds to wearing more than one lei at a time, especially when the wearer is the focal point of the celebration. Some individuals change the bow from one side to the other, before and after the graduation ceremony, along with the movement of the tassel.
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