Italian Wedding Traditions, Rituals, and Customs

Engagement and Pre-Wedding Customs:

In Italy, the engagement period is typically shorter compared to other cultures. However, some traditional customs are observed:

• Marriage Proposal: The groom-to-be asks the bride’s father for her hand in marriage. This gesture reflects respect for the family and their blessing for the union.
• Engagement Ring: The engagement ring, usually a diamond ring, is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. This tradition is similar to many other Western cultures.
• Betrothal Ceremony: In some regions, a formal betrothal ceremony, known as “La Promessa,” takes place. The couple exchanges rings as a symbol of their commitment.

Rehearsal Dinner:

The night before the wedding, a rehearsal dinner, known as “La Cena della Vigilia,” is held. It brings together close family members and friends for a relaxed meal and toasts. This is an opportunity for loved ones to express their best wishes and support for the couple.

Wedding Procession:

Italian wedding processions are a beautiful and lively spectacle. The groom, accompanied by musicians and close family members, proceeds to the bride’s house or a designated location to escort her to the wedding venue. Along the way, the procession may encounter obstacles or challenges set up by friends of the bride, which must be overcome before reaching the bride.

Wedding Ceremony:

Italian weddings are often religious ceremonies held in churches, reflecting the country’s strong Catholic influence. The ceremony includes prayers, readings, and the exchange of vows and rings. Some regions may also incorporate traditional customs, such as the “Sposa bagnata, sposa fortunata” (wet bride, lucky bride), where the bride is sprinkled with water for good luck.

Rice Throwing:

At the conclusion of the wedding ceremony, guests traditionally throw rice or confetti at the newlyweds as they exit the church or wedding venue. This act symbolises fertility, prosperity, and showering blessings upon the couple.

Wedding Reception:

The wedding reception in Italy is a lavish affair that revolves around delicious food, fine wines, and joyous celebrations. It typically lasts for several hours and includes multiple courses of traditional Italian cuisine, such as antipasti, pasta, main courses, and desserts. The reception is filled with music, dancing, and heartfelt toasts to honour the couple.

Wedding Favours:

Italian weddings often feature “bomboniere” as wedding favours. These are small gifts given to guests as a token of appreciation for attending the celebration. Common bomboniere include sugared almonds (known as “confetti”), small trinkets, or personalised items.

Cutting of the Wedding Cake:

The wedding cake, known as “torta nuziale,” holds great significance in Italian weddings. It is usually a multi-tiered cake adorned with elaborate decorations. The cutting of the cake is a special moment where the couple’s hands are placed together on the knife, symbolising their unity and shared future.

Tarantella Dance:

The Tarantella is a traditional Italian folk dance often performed at weddings. Guests join hands and dance in a lively, circular formation, accompanied by upbeat music. The dance symbolises joy, celebration, and the coming together of families.

Baci Perugina:

As a sweet finale to the wedding celebrations, it is customary to distribute Baci Perugina chocolates to guests. These chocolates contain a love note written in multiple languages, adding a romantic touch to the end of the festivities.