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For New Year/Shogatsu Locals decorate their front door with kadomatsu, “gate pine” to welcome their ancestral spirit. Sometimes katamatsu also served as a gesture of invitation and prayer.
*Basic – with pine only
Call to confirm on inventory 808-732-7668

Instruction of its placement:“The bamboo legs must come in contact with the foundation of the home. A table, basket or container holding the bamboo is considered bad luck and should be avoided when placing your kadomatsu outside…” full text

“Designs for kadomatsu vary depending on region but are typically made of pine, bamboo, and sometimes ume tree sprigs which represent longevity, prosperity and steadfastness, respectively….full text” “Originally it derives from China. In China they put a branch or twig of pine at the gate to worship the god of the gate…..In the Kamakura era, a custom began to tie three bamboo shoots and arrange pine around them. They tied it three times with straw ropes…..The period from January 1 to January 7 is called “Matsu no uchi” or “The period inside the pine.” In the Edo era, they put Kadomatsu until January 15. Then it was burned at a ceremony called “Dondo yaki”.. full text”

pictures of our in-store kadomatsu
“Bud” Morrison and Island Kadomatsu

Green Bamboo / Take - “The bamboo symbolizes endurance and strength. The nodes or the joints indicate hardship that one experiences in life…” more
Pine / Mastu – A symbol of immortality. It remains green throughout the year. The city of Matsumoto translates to source of pine. more
Plum blossoms / Ume - “The plum tree is the first to bloom after a bitter, cold winter to indicate the coming of spring. It symbolizes endurance and hope. “ more
White Chrysanthemum (mum)
Kokutan – “The Kokutan is originated from parts of Asia. In Japan, this plant is called Sharinbai, meaning spokes of the wheel, referring to the arrangement of the leaves on the stems. This plant is also found in the warmer parts of Korea and Japan. Hawaii Okinawan name is Kokutan…..full text
Nanten - “A highly respected, slow growing tree. It is much sought after for a pillar for tokonoma, an alcove in Japanese houses. The symbolism is to alter or deter any harm or difficulties to a favorable circumstance….full text
Straw Rope -

Thank you for supporting your local farmers by buying locally grown Christmas trees. Please email us photos of your decorated Christmas trees. We will announce top three winners on December 31. Top three winners for the Christmas tree contest will receive $50, $35, and $25 gift certificate from Sweet Blossoms Hawaii. Email photos to irene@sweetblossomshawaii.com

Does anyone know how we can get some more green bamboo for making more Kadomatsu. ½” to 2” would be nice. Please call Irene at 732-7668 to discuss the details.

use this December mix coupons for your different occasions: Winter Banquet Bouquet, Christmas Trees, Christmas Gift Arrangement, Wreath, and more….

“She (my girlfriend) loves this orange-fades-into-yellow color roses, I think it is call sunset.…So I told her that I have to run some errand before I get back to the house, so I can pick up the roses to surprise her.  And I went to the flower shop to pick them up.  As I drove up the street to the house, she was driving down.  So I pull into this grocery store parking lot and waited it out. When I got home, I explained to her why I was at the grocery store because I wanted beer and then decided not.  I told her to take a shower.  And while she was in the shower, I clean and clear the living room, set the rose arrangement down and….”

Here are pictures of our flower arrangement Let us know what you think and if you want to order one. Email pictures of your favorite arrangement to irene@sweetblossomshawaii.com. If we use it, we’ll sent you a gift certificate toward purchase of your favorite arrangement.

Usually flower arrangements from the flower shop are refrigerated. So, treat flower arrangements like cold drinks.  When place on wood surface, such as an antique dining table or hallway table,  use a “coaster” so condensation will not damage the wood surface.    

We are sorry that Hale Niu Tuxedo next door is closing its door by the end of the month first week of January. Hale Niu was founded by Edward Kato in the 40’s, and currently owned and operated by his son Bert Kato. How I remember this place was that its staff was very helpful to get me a perfect fitted outfit, every time. (I have different length arms:) I rented my tux here for my high school proms and also for my wedding. No other place in town was as good as Hale Niu in prices and service. Please stop by to purchase a tuxedo or suit. And say goodbye to this friendly tuxedo rental place on Kapahulu Ave. Hale Niu, we will miss you.

We heard news from the landlord that Captain Cook & Associates, a full service real estate broker is moving in from their1016 Kapahulu Ave. location. Want to learn more about Captain Cook, visit their website at http://www.hawaiiproperty.com/