A Hawaiian-Theme Wedding 
Pili olua e, "You Two Are Now One"  By Sally Manglicmot

Aloha, representing love, respect and compassion, combined with the natural surroundings of tropical gardens, sweet smelling flowers, waterfalls and
summery weather, is why so many couples choose a Hawaiian-theme wedding.  Inform your guests about the Hawaiian theme in your invitation--they've probably been waiting for the right occasion to wear that Hawaiian dress or shirt for months now!  Everyone will enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, dining on Polynesian food and wearing colorful leis. And you don't have to fly to the islands to have a Hawaiian-theme wedding.  Many beautiful gardens and beaches make perfect settings.  Endless decorations and favors can be added to make the bride, groom and guests feel as if they are on an enchanted island. 

The bride and groom can wear island-style attire or choose very traditional wedding attire--either way, the groom also wears a Maile lei of tropical leaves, and the bride wears a Kaku, flowers around her head, and a Pikake lei of white jasmine.  The bride and her attendants carry a beautiful bouquet of colorful orchids. 

The Hawaiian customs are centuries old and are deeply rooted and respected by the Hawaiian people. The ancient Hawaiian word for marriage is Ho'ao (stay until dawn).  Some of the Hawaiian traditions include a ritual cleansing in the ocean at daybreak, exchanging leis during the ceremony, a luau reception, including hula dancers for entertainment.  

Let your imagination run with exotic island passion.  Greet your guests with leis.  Fill coconut shells with orchid varieties.  Place seashells on the tables.  Package favors with macadamia nuts.  Keep torches burning in the sand, and kick off your shoes. Place your wedding invitation, a photo and a note in a bottle and toss it in the ocean. Celebrate a truly special Aloha day with your guests. 
E Nohu Pu'ana Iloko 'O Kealoha, or come together in love, Hawaiian style.