In Italy, like in many other nations, a couple may decide to use traditions that represent their lineage or simply add to the charm of their ceremony time. From the tossing of rice https://www.huffpost.com/entry/signs-long-distance-relationship-not-working_l_6019e10bc5b668b8db3cafda to the man serenading his bride the night before, italian ceremony traditions are a way for couples to make their festival even more memorable.
In many cultures the couple gives their guests a wedding favor to thank them for their presence. These are typically called bomboniere and in Italy consist of a present, sugared almonds ( also known as confetti in Italian ), and printed ribbons. The number of almonds in the wedding favour- five or seven- is important as it symbolizes fertility, long life, health, riches and happiness.
Before the ceremony the bride has her hair done in an elegant updo and has a special headpiece italian brides called a toc ferro. This custom dates back to antiquity and is intended to ward off bad luck, such as the possibility that her bride will change her mind.
Because it was once believed that a vein ran from the left finger to the heart, symbolizing love, the groom places his wedding ring on the left hand. The couple’s commitment to one another led to the wearing of the ring as a sign of faith.
As the ceremony draws to a close, guests greeted the newlyweds by distributing rice ( symbolizing fertility ) over them. Wheat is used in some areas in place of other types of confetti, but more and more municipalities are now urging residents to use alternative confetti that does n’t harm the environment.