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Ever since I was a little girl I remember staring into my Nonna's China closet admiring her collection of trinkets. As I grew up I learned that they were not toys for me to play with, but rather small gifts from different events that we celebrated within my family. Nonna ever explained the tradition behind the "bomboniera" and I incorporated this Italian tradition into my own wedding.

Throughout Europe there is a long-standing tradition of offering a small gift or a bomboniera to each person or family who are guests at receptions given for special occasions, such as weddings, baptisms and anniversaries. Since the middle ages, sugared almonds (confetti) were used as part of the bomboniera. The tradition holds the confetti is presented to each person (or family) along with a special gift as recognition for their support and good wishes. Also, the bomboniera are sent after the celebration to those who were unable to attend, but sent a gift or card as a symbol of gratitude and appreciation.

Uneven (odd) number are considered lucky, therefore five (5) confetti are typically included in the bomboniera to represent health, wealth, fertility, happiness and longevity. More than five can be used if desired, always keeping to an uneven number. A bigliettino (little tag) or imprinted favor ribbon is attached with the date of the event along with names.

Traditional bomboniere (favors) are hand-made in Italy with silk, organza, tulle, ribbon and flowers. They can be filled with your choice of confetti – almonds, chocolates, or chocolate-covered almonds, and a beautiful biglietto (little tag) from Italy is also attached in some way to the bomboniera.

Special, or more significant bomboniere, may be given to family members and friends who have played a special role in the celebration.In some families, a bomboniera (gift) of silver, crystal, or porcelain is also given as part of the tradition. Typical items include porcelain flowers from Capodimonte, silver bowls and crystal figurines.

Throughout the years, this tradition has been honored in Italian families. The bomboniere make the guests feel honored and important, but most importantly they have a memory that will always remind them of your special day.

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Source by Marisa Facciolo