What is a good first Luau gift? (costs, food)

[photocayman]

Hi all,
We are main landers who love Hawaii and spend a few weeks a year on the Big Island. Our native Hawaiian friends have invited us to their son's first luau which we have been told is a very big deal in an Hawaiian family's life. We are making a special trip to be there for this occasion. We are stuck for a gift! We don't want to be the Hoalies from the main land with our "Toy's R Us " presents at a very culturally significant event. Can any one suggest an appropriate gift. We see the child's parent's socially as well as in a business capacity. Making an impression with our gift is important but most of all we want it to be in good taste.
Many thanks
Aloha

[hotzcatz]

A card with $80 to $100 inside. There will be a large probably wooden bowl for such cards to be put usually somewhere near the door. Mostly these gifts are to cover the costs of the luau since most of them are catered, some have musicians, there are table fulls of food and some of them are in rented halls which all cost a lot of money which is why the gift cards with money inside. If it is just one person going then half that amount, if it is a couple then around $100 is about right. You can also bring a child's gift as well. Last couple of years for boy babies the "Cars" craze has been heavily emphasized. You could also ask any of the kid's aunties what would be a good present. How about ten shares of Hawaiian Electric stock in the kid's name?

[Loysum]

Money is always good or gift certificate. Those big parties are expensive!

[pocholakas]

The best gifts to give is always money, everyone can always use money. Also, baby toys that stimulate the mind and entertain the baby mabe musical or light up. Clothes or even a baby blanket. Since families are big here it's always useful to have an extra lying around. Hope that helps. Good luck all.