We take a look at the little details that ensure the big day goes smoothly
WITH ALL the complex history, traditions and symbolism of an Italian wedding, even before we arrive at the drinks reception, I discovered that there are many interesting "ingredients" to add to the wedding list.
Firstly if you are intending to marry per se, you will need the following ingredients: a full birth certificate, a valid passport; an affidavit declaring single status, authorised by a notary or solicitor declaring eligibility for marriage. Luckily personalitytest- authorisation not required, (one just hopes you have chosen well). If previously divorced or widowed, other affidavits are needed with written consent; especially needed if either or both parties to the marriage are less than eighteen years of age. All good so far... and we haven't even started.
For pure authenticity one also needs white doves, loads of ribbons; a small piece of iron, sweet liquor for the women, stronger stuff for the men; a look-out and a good watch; dancing lessons to be added probably six months beforehand; a very well-stocked catering van with Italian chef; sugared almonds and the exact number is important (to be discussed later); a glass or vase standing-by but watch out as this time it will be smashed into as many pieces as possible. Don't confuse it with your friend's watch! If all of these ingredients are added at the correct time, and placed in the oven at the correct temperature, the final result should be a fantastic, authentic Italian wedding.
BRINGING GOOD LUCK
It is important at this point, whilst waiting for the oven to heat up, an Italian wedding is linked to a traditional Catholic wedding and this would include a full Mass with ceremony. Immediately after the wedding ceremony, the happy couple releases a pair of white doves towards the heavens. These doves symbolise the love and affection that the couple hold for each other.
However, before we get to the doves, tradition dictates that an adorned "entry way" is created that the couple will pass through with elaborately tied ribbons. These ribbons are symbolic of the unity of the couple. It is also customary for the groom to carry a small piece of iron in his pocket during the wedding ceremony. This piece of metal is said to ward off evil spirits and ensure a happy future for the couple. The bride may also rip her veil slightly. This is said to bring good luck.
The reception that follows the wedding ceremony is where the majority of Italian traditions take place. It is customary for the guests to assemble in the reception room before the bride and groom arrive and celebrate with an aperitivo in their hands.
SMASHING GOOD TIME
No authentic wedding would be complete without a scrumptious feast, delivered from the well-stocked catering truck, featuring several courses. A traditional Italian wedding menu will vary depending on the couple's request but will normally begin with antipasti and this can vary depending on the region. This is followed by various types of pasta, such as tagliatelle, then meats, soups, salads and contorni (vegetable side dishes) and desserts, including the vast wedding cake, each accompanied by flowing wine from the area. There are certain foods that have symbolic meanings, which lead me to those "almond" ingredients. Guests are usually presented with an odd number of sugared almonds, known as confetti. They are presented in odd numbers and have different meanings. For example, some say three almonds wish the couple luck with children whilst five almonds wish the couple monetary wealth, health, happiness, fertility and longevity.
The final ingredient, apart from the rice being thrown over the departing couple, is of course buckets of amore to ensure that there's everlasting happiness.
