How's this for "Special?"

 

In the year 2011, I was invited to 7 weddings. Eight if you include mine. So far the pictures I’ve seen of the weddings have all had a different element. My cousin had people blow bubbles instead of throw rice or at my wedding, orchid petals. A friend had games at her wedding, couple trivia and a game called “guess which feet are your wife's.” Often weddings are portrayed as these boring, tradition-filled, extended family reunions. Your wedding can be anything you want it to be. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Don't let anyone tell you what is expected of you on YOUR wedding day. Give an inch, your families will take a mile.

There are some cultural traditions, however, that can't be missed. One “tradition” that I did at my wedding was I danced a hula for my husband. What is tradition for some, is exotic for others. I had a friend and a cousin who also danced a hula for their new husbands, but the beauty of this tradition is you can pick your song. I danced to Ke Aloha a romantic and intimate lovesong written by my cousins grandmother, Lei Collins. I went to Halau O’ Lehualani in Edmonds, WA (http://www.hulaolehualani.com/) to learn my hula. My aunt and my little cousin both dance for this halau (class). The Kumu (teacher) is one of the best I have ever have the privilege to know. She is patient but strict, kind but serious. The best mix for any teacher.

Almost any hula halau that you find will be willing to teach private lessons. While hula is a Hawaii heritage tradition it is not restricted in anyway to Hawaii or Hawaiians. If you want to do something special or different for your wedding, even if you aren't from Hawaii or have never danced a day in your life, you can take the time to learn how to hula. Most Kumus will be patient and teach you hula from the foundation so your hands will be fluid, your hips will sway gracefully and your smile will be genuine. I danced professional Polynesian style dance (hula, Samoan, Tahitian even some Maori) for a total of 13 years but I never had to dance the hula by myself. It was terrifying but it was for me a spiritual, heartfelt gesture to my new husband. I also heard it made a few people cry, so I'm taking that as a positive.

Every wedding is unique and beautiful but it is up to you to make it reflect you and your husband. Whether it's dancing a hula or throwing organic confetti, make sure your wedding is as special and meaningful to you as it is to your guests.