The story of sugar almonds

Don’t you love colourful traditions?

They’re a thing of family and fable, often springing from quirky habits and strong superstitions – like a colourful Italian tradition I was told about as a kid.

When Italian couples marry, they give guests five almonds (typically in white, pale pink or pale blue) as a favour to take home.

The reason for five (I love odd numbers so I totally approve) is that five is indivisible, symbolising a strong bond between the newlyweds that will never be divided.

Not only that but each almond has its own specific meaning, representing

  • Health
  • Happiness
  • Wealth
  • Fertility
  • Long life

Weddings favours company UK Wedding Favours says: ‘It is said that the sweet yet ever so slightly bitter flavour that fresh almonds possess represents the taste of life and the sweet sugared coating symbolises the hope that the newly married couple will enjoy a life that is more sweet than bitter.’ 

What wedding traditions did you have at your nuptials?

Martha, The Colour File x

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