Favours are by no means a modern idea. They have been part of weddings for hundreds of years, although it’s thought that they started in Italy around the 1700s. Back then, it was something only wealthy aristocrats could afford, presenting their wedding guests with a little box filled with sugar that was very much a luxury at the time.

But as sugar became more affordable, sugared almonds were used instead. And this is what is very often used today – five almonds representing health, wealth, longevity, fertility and happiness. The sugar coating of the almond represented all that is sweet in a marriage, and in contrast the nut was symbolic of the sometimes bitter side!

Favours vary greatly from country to country, for example in Korea guests will often receive ‘wedding ducks’ that reflect how well the couple is getting on depending on how they are positioned, either facing towards or away from each other. Malaysian favours use the idea of an egg that represents the couples fertility. Spanish favours will often include orange blossom as the flower of choice, symbolic of fulfilment and happiness, and Puerto Rican favours known as ‘copies’ are beautifully decorated cards with the names of the bride and groom and the wedding date.

A big thank you to Elena for sharing with us a brief history of wedding favours. Inspired by her Italian cultural heritage, Elenamaria is a bespoke wedding favour company, specialising in a handpicked range with a wide choice of colour and decorations options, that is in keeping with traditional Italian favours and bomboniere. All the favour boxes are named after Italian towns and villages, and labels are handwritten to ensure an unique and customised experience for each of your wedding guests. 

Elenamaria are able to customise the favours to create the bespoke look the wedding couple are aiming for. Recently Elena had an order from the father of a bride organising some tulle favours who wanted to add something ‘very English!’, so together they came up with the idea of adding miniature Big Bens to the favours that looked absolutely stunning!

To find out more about personalised favours for your wedding Elenamaria can be contacted via the website – http://www.elenamaria.co.uk/.