Weddings in Italy are deeply rooted in cultural traditions that have been passed down for generations. From the pre-wedding customs to the reception festivities, Italian weddings are known for their symbolism, elegance, and joyful atmosphere. Whether you’re attending or planning an Italian wedding, you might encounter these cherished traditions.
Pre-Wedding Traditions – A Night Spent Apart
One of the most time-honored Italian customs is that the bride and groom do not see each other the night before the wedding. The bride typically stays at her parents’ house, a practice that originated when marriages were arranged. It was considered unlucky for couples to meet before the ceremony, a superstition that still influences modern weddings today.
The Groom’s Final Gift – The Bridal Bouquet
In traditional Italian weddings, the groom has the special duty of selecting and purchasing the bride’s bouquet. It symbolizes his last gift to her before they officially become husband and wife. On the morning of the wedding, the bouquet is delivered to the bride as a touching gesture of love and commitment.
Auspicious Attire – No Gold Jewelry for the Bride
Italian wedding customs hold strong beliefs about luck and superstition, particularly when it comes to attire. The bride is not supposed to wear any gold jewelry on her wedding day, except for her wedding ring. Wearing additional gold is believed to bring bad luck, a belief that many still honor today.
A Wedding Guest’s Dress Code – No White
Guests attending an Italian wedding should avoid wearing white, as this color is strictly reserved for the bride. Instead, attendees should opt for colors that complement the season. Pastel shades are a popular choice for spring weddings, while deep hues like burgundy and emerald green are favored for fall ceremonies.
The Traditional Wedding Cake – Millefoglie
Unlike tiered sponge cakes commonly seen in other cultures, Italian weddings often feature a traditional cake known as millefoglie, which means a thousand layers. This delicate pastry is made of thin, flaky layers filled with custard or cream and topped with fresh fruit and powdered sugar. Its light texture and refined flavors make it a favorite among guests.
Traditional Italian Wedding Catering
Italian weddings are known for their lavish and multi-course meals that celebrate family, heritage, and high-quality ingredients. The catering matrimoni at a traditional Italian wedding reflects regional influences, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal, and homemade dishes.
Key Features of Traditional Italian Wedding Catering:
- Aperitivo (Pre-Dinner Drinks & Bites)
- Guests are welcomed with Prosecco, Aperol Spritz, or Negroni.
- Light bites such as bruschetta, olives, cured meats, and arancini.
- Antipasti (Starters)
- A mix of cold cuts (prosciutto, salami, mortadella).
- Cheese selection, including Parmigiano-Reggiano, burrata, or pecorino.
- Marinated vegetables and seafood like octopus salad.
- Primi (First Course – Pasta & Risotto)
- Handcrafted pasta dishes such as ravioli, lasagna, or tagliatelle.
- Truffle risotto, seafood pasta, or tomato-based dishes depending on the region.
- Secondi (Main Course – Meat & Fish)
- Meat options like slow-cooked lamb, beef Florentine, or roast pork.
- Seafood dishes, especially in coastal regions, like branzino or swordfish.
- Dolci (Desserts)
- Classic Italian wedding cake (Millefoglie or Crostata).
- Tiramisu, cannoli, and sfogliatelle.
- Drinks & Digestivi
- Espresso, limoncello, grappa, and amaro to aid digestion.
Italian wedding catering is a feast of flavors, designed to create a warm and festive experience for guests.
The Throwing of Rice – A Symbol of Fertility
As the newlyweds exit the ceremony, guests customarily shower them with rice. This act is believed to symbolize fertility and prosperity, a tradition that dates back to ancient Rome, when wheat and oat seeds were used instead. It remains a beloved part of Italian weddings, wishing the couple a fruitful and happy life together.
The Groom’s Tie – A Unique Fundraiser
At many Italian wedding receptions, the groom’s tie is cut into small pieces and auctioned off to guests. The highest bidder often wins the most valuable part—the knot of the tie. The collected funds are gifted to the newlyweds, providing them with additional financial support for their honeymoon or future expenses. Though less common today, this tradition still makes an appearance at some weddings.
The Iconic Dance – La Tarantella
No Italian wedding celebration is complete without La Tarantella, a lively folk dance known as the ‘dance of the spider.’ Guests hold hands in a circle and move rhythmically around the newlyweds, creating an electrifying atmosphere. This dance originated in southern Italy and is named after the tarantula spider. Legend says it was performed to counteract the effects of a spider bite.
Bomboniere – Gifts for the Guests
Italian weddings are not just about the couple—the guests are also honored with a special token of appreciation. Known as bomboniere, these wedding favors traditionally contain confetti—sugared almonds symbolizing health, happiness, and prosperity. Guests usually receive five to seven almonds, reinforcing the wishes for good fortune.
A Reflection-Free Bride – A Superstitious Belief
Another curious Italian wedding superstition dictates that the bride should not see her complete reflection before the ceremony. If she wishes to glimpse herself in a mirror, she must remove an accessory to ensure her image remains incomplete. This ritual is thought to ward off bad luck on the big day.
Preserving Traditions in Modern Weddings
While many couples embrace these classic customs, modern Italian weddings often incorporate contemporary elements to reflect the couple’s unique personalities. From combining old traditions with new trends to personalizing wedding attire and decor, Italian weddings continue to evolve while keeping their rich cultural heritage alive.
These cherished traditions make Italian weddings unforgettable. They blend history, romance, and joy into a celebration that will stand the test of time.