Italian-Canadian weddings keep many warm traditions from the old country alongside a big celebration. Here is a plain-English glossary of common Italian wedding terms you will hear in the GTA.
Bomboniere are the keepsake favours given to guests as thanks; classically they include confetti — sugared almonds (usually five, for health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and long life). The bittersweet almond symbolizes the reality of marriage. They are presented in decorative packaging and are a long-standing Italian custom.
La tarantella is a fast, joyful southern-Italian folk dance often performed at weddings, with guests joining hands in a whirling circle. It is a high-energy, communal highlight of the reception.
La busta ("the envelope") is the tradition of giving money in an envelope as a wedding gift, often collected in a satin bag (la borsa) carried by the bride. It is the customary gift at most Italian weddings.
Malocchio is the "evil eye" — superstition guarded against with charms (like the cornicello horn). At weddings it shows up more as good-luck custom and humour than ritual, but you will hear the term.
The Big Bang Events helps you find GTA vendors for an Italian wedding — banquet venues, caterers, and bands that can bring the tarantella.
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