When attending a wedding as a guest, most have received a wedding favor, from monogrammed gifts to sweet treats. Chances are that perhaps you’ve received some candied Jordan almonds tied up in tulle. Although they taste great, there’s a great deal of history behind these little bundles.
Wedding favors originated with the early Europeans in the form of the groom’s cake. Each guest would receive a piece of this special cake to take home as a thank you for attending the wedding. Later, the tradition migrated to the Mediterranean region, where cake was replaced with sugar- or candy-coated Jordan almonds. The coating was white, symbolizing purity.
The Jordan almond represents the bitter and the sweet of life and marriage. Traditionally, five almonds were given, representing health, wealth, happiness, longevity and fertility. Modern-day favors often include a sixth and a seventh almond: a pink one and a blue one, representing the bride and groom. In the early 1900s, immigrants from these regions brought the wedding favor to the United States.
Times have changed and today almost anything goes. Favors come in many shapes, sizes and flavors! Most are personalized in some way with the bride and groom’s name along with the wedding date. Regardless of your choice, it will be a day to remember!
Does sweet treats for wedding favors sound great to you? Read more on our blog about ideas for crafting a candy bar at your wedding!