Unique and Meaningful Custom Graduation Leis - Honor Your Grad

The Significance and Symbolism of Custom Leis

Leis have a long history of cultural symbolism in Polynesian societies. The fragrant and vibrant garlands made of flowers, leaves, seeds, and shells are given as a sign of affection, celebration, honor and welcoming. When visiting Hawaii, it's traditional to receive a lei upon your arrival. Graduation leis signify pride in a student's achievements and are a memorable way for family and friends to congratulate the graduate.

Popular Flowers Used in Hawaiian Leis

Some of the popular flowers used to make Hawaiian leis include:

• Plumeria - With its sweet fragrance and bright colors, the plumeria flower is one of the most recognizable Hawaiian bloom. Its five petals represent joy, celebration and new beginnings.
• Tuberose - Prized for their alluring and exotic fragrance, tuberoses symbolize charm and prosperity.
• Carnation - With a wide range of vibrant colors, carnations signify pride, admiration and celebration.
• Orchid - Known as the queen of the lei flowers, orchids represent beauty, refinement, thoughtfulness and charm with their delicate blooms.

UniqueCustomGradLeis for an Unforgettable Celebration

A custom graduation lei allows you to choose special flowers, materials, styles and personal touches that reflect the personality and interests of the graduate. Here are some ideas for creating distinctive graduation leis:

• Incorporate their school colors into ribbon accents, flower choices or decorative elements.
• Add charms or shells that represent their interests, hobbies, college major or future career goals.
• Choose their favorite flower or a bloom with symbolic meaning.
• Add greenery and accents that matches their style - modern, boho, preppy, sporty, etc.
• Include congratulatory notes or inspirational quotes to make it extra personal.
• Customize the length and style - long and flowing or short and sweet.

How to Order Custom Graduation Leis

If you would like to order custom graduation leis, here are a few easy ways to get started:

Work with a Local Florist

Many florists that specialize in leis, especially in Hawaii and other Polynesian communities, offer custom designing services. Communicate your vision for materials, colors, accents and style and let their resident lei artisan bring it to life.

Order from an Online Seller

There are a number of online stores that allow you to not only choose your lei components but also offer personalization like engraving charms and adding special messages or packaging.

DIY Your Graduation Leis

For the crafty graduate or budget-conscious, you can create your own custom graduation leis. Purchase supplies like flowers, ribbons, greenery and decorative accents from local craft stores or online. Watch tutorial videos to learn lei construction techniques like knotting, twisting and weaving.

Have it Shipped or Pick Up

Most lei makers and stores offer shipping and local pick up options. For mainland orders, choose flowers like orchids that ship well. For last minute local orders, opt for pick up to get your custom creation just in time for graduation day photos and celebrations.

Unique Lei Ideas for Graduation Day

Custom leis allow you to dream up designs that capture the personality of your graduate. Here are some unique ideas to inspire your custom graduation lei:

• Grad cap charms and tassels
• Their birthstone beads
• Souvenirs from a special trip
• Inspirational quote medallions
• Greenery accents like eucalyptus and palms
• Seashells from their favorite beach

Styles and Trends

Today's graduation leis encompass modern styles and trends too:

• Boho chic with airy, whimsical flowers and earthy accents
• Luxurious orchids and anthurium import blooms
• Hand-dyed or ombre ribbons
• Geometric and minimalist styles
• Fresh flower crowns

The possibilities are endless for crafting beautiful, personalized graduation leis that will become a beloved memento marking their educational journey and exciting future ahead.

FAQs

What are some popular flowers used to make graduation leis?

Some top choices are fragrant plumerias, elegant orchids, cheerful carnations and exotic tuberoses. Colors often match the graduate's school colors.

How early should I order a custom graduation lei?

It's best to order 1-2 months in advance of your ceremony. This gives adequate time for design, personalized touches and shipping if needed.

What are some unique additions I can request for a custom lei?

Popular personalizations include birthstones, sea shells, grad cap charms, inspirational quotes, and greenery that matches the graduate's style.

Can I make my own DIY graduation lei?

Yes, with some creativity and supplies from local craft stores or ordered online, you can handmake graduation leis yourself. Watch tutorials to learn techniques.

How should I transport and store my graduation lei?

Carefully transport leis flat in a rigid container. Store in the refrigerator, lightly misted, until an hour before the ceremony for maximum freshness.