Traditional Tuscan Weddings
The rich traditions of a true Tuscan wedding have been passed down from generation to generation. Italy exudes passion and is known for its romantic cities. In fact, the word “romantic” originates from Rome. Tuscan weddings are no exception: they are elegant and prideful of the beauty that is found in the landscapes, and Tuscan weddings show off the land in the wedding decor and atmosphere.
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Engagement
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Traditionally, before the a wedding there must be an engagement and announcement that lets family and friends know the commitment the couple will be making to each other. In an older Italian tradition, young men and women were mostly coupled by their families; that kind of arranged wedding is not very common anymore. Engagement diamond rings have been a tradition since the 1400s for Tuscan brides. Bridal showers are also a tradition; before this custom, the bride’s family would supply the bride with household and domestic necessities.
Sunday Marriages
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The date for a Tuscan wedding is always chosen carefully. Sundays are believed to be the luckiest day of the week to wed, especially if it is rainy, which is seen as a good omen for the bride and groom. During Lent, Advent, May or August, Tuscan weddings are off limits due for religious reasons.
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Superstitions
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Tuscan Italian folklore states that the bride is not to wear any gold before her wedding day and the groom should carry a piece of iron to keep evil spirits at bay. A veil is traditionally worn over the bride's face to keep jealous spirits away and the tearing of the veil is believed to bring good luck.
Wedding Day
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The day before the wedding brides are known to wear green, symbolizing fertility. On the day of a Tuscan wedding the bride traditionally wears a white veil and wedding gown. A white dress symbolizes purity. A delightful Tuscan wedding day tradition is for the groom and bride to find a ribbon tied on the church's door, representing their union (a reference to "tying the knot"). Doves may be released as a symbol of the couple’s love and joy. As the couple exits the church, confetti and/or candy-coated almonds are tossed. The almonds are tied inside a piece of tulle, symbolizing the couple's life to come—both sweet and bitter. The tradition of tossing grains and nuts extends from ancient Roman custom. The car the bride and groom ride in is decorated with pretty ribbons and flowers, not with loud cans and bells.
Toasts
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A before-dinner toast takes place after the wedding. It is given by the best man, who wishes the couple a long, happy life together. Other traditional toasts will take place as the reception progresses. The "evviva gli sposi" is a cheer for the happy couple and is one of the traditional toasts. The crowd of guests then demand that the groom kiss his bride. The guests will also kiss the bride for good luck. Glass shattering might get you thinking of a Jewish wedding, but it is also a popular custom in Tuscan wedding traditions and toasts. The broken pieces of glass are thought to represent the years the couple will spend together.
Reception Food, Drink and Decor
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Tuscany is known for its gourmet food delicacies and tasty wine. The tradition of food and wine is one not to be tampered with. The traditional dinner menu will include local breads, soups, salads, cheeses, appetizers, pastas, meat dishes, grapes and, for dessert, a wedding cake along with other pastries. The decorations found at a traditional Tuscan reception mirror the rolling hills of vines found in the landscape. Tuscany red is a popular color found in the wedding decor.
Entertainment
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Music and dancing follow after a celebratory Italian wedding diner. Traditional songs are played, such as the lively tarantella, and sentimental mother of the groom and father of the bride dances also take place. The bride will sometimes carry a satin bag for money envelopes from guests who wish to dance with her; the guests pay a little money for the honor of a dance with the bride.
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References
- Photo Credit tuscany in winter image by Fabio Barni from Fotolia.com
