Ginger leis are very fragile and fragrant, and generally symbolize romance. They don't last long.. you might look into plumeria or kukui nut leis. Even ti leaf leis are very pretty. You could try this site:

http://www.alohafriends.com/leis_shipping.html

They're a bit expensive (though competitive), but I know people who are very happy with their product and service. You get what you pay for, I guess! :)

Pômaika`i!

Thanks, Steph. The link will be useful as well. Enjoy Hawaii~

Aloha e Blaze,

White ginger is fragile, and the yellow is even more. The micronesian style of white ginger lei travels well to California, but I'm not sure if it can make it to MA. My mom makes the micronesian style and rolls it up, packs in ti leaves, then saran wrap. You might want to ask around about that style.

Manoa

Yes, butterfly ginger is difficult to transport, that is why you see the torch type alpinas in shops on the mailand but not the butterfly types. A dendrobium orchid lei would be special and you can get them pretty easily because they travel well. You could even buy a bunch and make it yourself to make it even more special. (52 blossoms strung on heavy dental floss with a heavy needle will do it) Kakui nuts leis would last for ever and be a keepsake. But then you don't have to stop at one. The more leis you give, the more honor you show.
Aloha

Thank you all for your suggestions:) These are great - sure to use them ..

Blaze,
aloha, another suggestions it so have the white ginger buds sent without being strung and you make the lei. The bloom seems to last longer when kept tight. As previously suggested, have them bundled in ti leaves and moist paper towels and wrapped in saran, then shipped. The McDonald book on leis shows the method of making the lei. David