Finding 'Ohana: Hawaiian Flower for Love
What is ‘Ohana?
‘Ohana means “family” in the Hawaiian language.
The term ‘ohana in the Hawaiian culture represents much more than our modern idea of family. In Hawai‘i, ‘ohana has a broader meaning, including cousins, in-laws, friends, neighbors and community. It supports the idea that family and friends are meant to love each other and work together. The concept of Ohana represents love, trust, support and compassion. It’s not just about your blood-related family, but it also includes your friends, neighbors and anyone special in your life.
Wear Matching Hawaiian Outfit for a Perfect Family Photoshoot
Netflix recently released the new original movie Finding ‘Ohana, which feels like the Hawaiian version of The Goonies and Indiana Jones. It is the perfect film to watch with your kids and get to know the Hawaiian culture together — the movie touches on Hawaiian legends, myths, rituals and traditions. You can also catch more than 100 Hawaiian words in the movie and great views of O‘ahu including Kualoa Ranch, and Chinaman’s Hat. (PS: There are many other family movies filmed in Hawai‘i, such as Jurassic Park & Jurassic World and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle!)
Hawaiian Flower Symbolism - Meanings of Tropical Flowers in Hawaiian
Speaking of how important ‘ohana is in Hawai‘i, I wanted to share one of the most significant tropical flowers here that symbolize love: the plumeria. It is one of the most recognizable and beloved flowers with a strong connection to Hawaiian culture.
Plumeria / Pua Melia - One of the Iconic Tropical Flowers That Makes You Think of Hawaii
Plumeria / Pua Melia
Plumeria represents love and birth, as well as spring and new beginnings.
Plumeria has a wide variety of colors; white, yellow, orange, crimson, a range of pink and purple.
They have a sweet fragrance and are often used to make leis, which is a traditional Hawaiian garland that people wear around their necks.
If you are looking for a potential mate, put the plumeria in your hair over the right ear. If you are married or engaged, display it on the left ear!
*A word of caution: Some plumeria have a white sticky sap that can cause rash and blistering. Plumeria trees can be found everywhere in Hawai‘i, so be careful if you see plumeria growing in the wild.
(References: Poisonous Plants of Hawaii Identification Guide, Poisonous Hawaiian Plants )
Plumeria have a deep-rooted popularity on the island because it represents love. Simple with a wide variety of colors, plumeria designs are featured in many Hawaiian gifts and souvenirs to bring the beautiful memories of the Hawaiian vacation back home or share the Aloha spirit with your ‘ohana! Plumeria is also a perfect flower to incorporate into family portraits and wedding photos.
Our Products
Custom Fit Hawaiian Shirts - We offer Custom Shirts!
You can pick any fabric from our store selection! Take a look at the Hawaiian Fabric selection at Fabric Hawaii.
Perfect Matching Outfits for Family Photoshoots in Hawai‘i
Family, Beach & Wedding Photos in Hawai‘i
We offer a variety of rental dresses, matching family and couples outfits.
Fabric For Making Face Mask with Plumeria Print - Hawaiian Fabric Small Pre-Cut Choose Any 2 (11"x 9")