The giving of wedding favors is evidenced to date back to the 16th century. The practice of giving gifts to show appreciation for sharing their special day with them spans over many different cultures. Over time favors have evolved and changed. There are more choices than before for a bride and groom to express themselves through their favors.

Some brides and grooms want to celebrate their roots by having their cultures traditional wedding gifts.

In Malaysia guests are given a symbol of fertility in the form of a hand painted egg.

A traditional Italian wedding favor is candy covered almonds, also known as confetti. They are placed in small baskets or boxes. Or beautifully wrapped in lace, or tulle then tied with ribbons.

The sugar-coated almonds, Jordan Almonds are the Middle Eastern favor of choice. As well as many other cultures. They are considered to symbolize both the bitterness and the sweetness of a marriage. They are often given in packages of 3 or 5. Three almonds stands for the husband, wife and the future child. Five almonds stands for health, happiness, fertility, longevity and wealth.

The Greek also use the sugar-coated almonds, they call them koufeta.

The gifts given in Japan may be extravagant and expensive. Even up to $50 or more per guest. These gifts are called hikidemono. There are also less expensive favors called kohaku manjyu which are steamed buns filled with bean paste. They are given in pairs of red and white. Then there is the Japanese legend of the 1,000 paper cranes that you may be familiar with. The brides construct the cranes and use them as wedding decorations to symbolize good fortune, fidelity and longevity. They may also give them away as favors.

Much like the Middle Eastern Favors, the Dutch give sets of 5 sugar-coated almonds, or sugar cubes called Bridal Sugar to represent prosperity, loyalty, happiness, virility and love.

A common Spanish favor is orange blossoms. These are often given with bud vases.

Two classic Irish favors are a handkerchief made of fine linen or lace, or a gift with a Claddagh on it. These gifts may include candle holders, cups, picture frames, and boxes. The Claddagh represents loyalty, love and friendship. fortuneweddingfavors