Types of Leis for Graduation: Ribbon, Flower, Feather & Money

Not all graduation leis are the same. Before you buy, here's an honest look at the four main types — what they're made of, how much they cost, and which one is right for your ceremony.

1. Braided Ribbon Leis (What We Make)

Material: 100% polyester ribbon, machine-braided in 2–3 colors. Price: cheapest — retail $6–10, factory-direct from $0.75.

• ✅ Most affordable, consistent color, durable (survives the whole ceremony)
• ✅ Great for bulk class orders and school-color matching
• ✅ Can add year print or embroidered patches
• ❌ Not "natural" looking compared to flower leis

See our graduation leis or standard braided ribbon lei.

2. Flower Leis (Real & Fake)

Material: real flowers (orchids, plumeria) or silk/fabric flowers. Price: retail $15–40 for quality silk; real flowers are perishable and expensive.

• ✅ Most traditional and beautiful for photos
• ❌ Real flowers wilt — order for the day, not ahead
• ❌ Much higher cost, harder to do in exact school colors

3. Feather Leis

Material: ostrich or faux feathers. Price: mid-to-high.

• ✅ Luxurious, dramatic look
• ❌ Less common for graduation, more for luau/formal events

4. Money Leis

Material: ribbon braid with folded cash woven in. Price: ribbon is cheap; the "price" is the cash you add.

• ✅ Doubles as a gift — graduate gets a keepsake and cash
• ✅ Highly custom and personal
• ❌ DIY time; safety-wise, keep cash secure

See our money lei ideas guide for how to make one.

Which Type Should You Choose?

For bulk and school-color orders, start with our wholesale page — or ask us anything.