Table of contents
ALMONDS AT WEDDINGS
The tradition of almonds at weddings dates back centuries and is believed to have originated in ancient Rome. Almonds have long been associated with fertility, romance, and good fortune, making them a popular choice for inclusion in wedding ceremonies and celebrations. In many countries, including Greece, Italy, and Spain, almonds are traditionally given as favors to guests. These favors, called confetti in Italy, consist of five sugared almonds, symbolizing five wishes for the newlywed couple: health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity. Almonds are also used in wedding cakes, symbolizing the sweetness and enduring love of the couple’s union. Their significance in weddings has spread across the globe, with almonds becoming a cherished tradition in many cultures.
Candied almonds have historically been given as wedding gifts or served to the guests as wedding favors. In France, Calissons d’Aix en Provence are said to have been served at the wedding of the king in the 1400s. The Italians serve five almonds to signify five wishes for the bride and groom – health, wealth, happiness, children and long life. Known by many names – dragee, confetti, Jordan Almonds, mlabbas, koufeta – they are popular at many American weddings as well.
Updated October 2025.
Tony Fitzgerald and Lisa LeCoump are professional photographers living in Santa Cruz, California, and the owners of Tony Fitzgerald Photography. They spent ten years photographing weddings, and their photographs have been frequently published in blogs and magazines.