Where Did Giving Almonds as a Wedding Favor Originate?

People began giving almonds as wedding favors over 3,000 years ago in Greece, Italy, France and the Middle East. Although there are many wedding favor options available today, many couples still choose to give Jordan almonds as a more traditional selection. They are particularly popular in the Italian-American community. There are many modern ways to incorporate this time-honored favor into the wedding plans, or couples may choose a more traditional presentation.

Origins

Almonds were first used in weddings in Ancient Rome. Sugar cane was not yet known in the region, so the nuts were sweetened with honey. The traditional hard candy coating began in the 15th century. In addition to almonds, dried fruit, pine nuts and hazelnuts were also coated in sugar. Jordan almonds were often served at other special occasions.

Names

Each culture has a different name for the candy coated almond. In the United States, most people call them Jordan almonds, but Italians use the term confetti. They are known as dragees in other European countries, and koufeta in Greece.

Symbolism

The bitter taste of the almonds represents the difficult times in a marriage, while the candy coating symbolizes being blessed with good times. Together, the almond and its candy coating represent the reality of marriage, "in good times and in bad." The sweet taste slightly overpowers the nut, which is symbolic of a successful marriage.

Superstitions

According to superstition, each individual wedding favor should contain an odd number of almonds. An even number is divisible, which could lead to the separation of the married couple in the future. An odd number is preferable because it cannot be divided. In Middle Eastern tradition, each guest should receive exactly five almonds, representing happiness, wealth, health, fertility and longevity.

Presentation

Jordan almonds are usually given in small organza bags or wrapped in tulle and tied with a ribbon. Historically, the candy coating was white, but today's bride can choose from a wide variety of pastel colors to coordinate with the wedding reception décor. Greek brides traditionally choose bags that are white, as a symbol of purity.

Modern Options

There are more creative options available for today's bride to incorporate Jordan almonds into wedding favors. She can place a few almonds inside a heart-shaped cookie cutter and wrap that in tulle. Or, she might choose a special flower design by placing an almond inside each petal "pocket" of the flower, called ribbon flowers or coccarde favors.