Having culture present in your wedding reception is one of the key elements that makes the day truly special. If you or your significant other are of Italian heritage, you understand the importance of food, family, and tradition. These essentials are a must-have on the day of your wedding! At Celebrations, we have a team of experts ready to help you plan the perfect Italian reception.

The Italian wedding culture is rich with tradition. Before the reception takes place, the bride and groom break a vase together. Each shard of glass is said to symbolize a year of marriage. When it comes time for the reception to begin, friends and family gather to celebrate the newlyweds over as many as 14 courses!

In many cultures, it is said to be bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the ceremony. In the Italian culture, it is supposed to be bad luck for even the bride to see herself in the mirror before she is dressed. Other popular Italian wedding customs include:

  • Sunday Receptions: In Italian culture, hosting your wedding on a Sunday is said to bring luck, fertility, and prosperity. At the start of the festivities, strong drinks are served and guests toast the couple with “Per Cent’anni,” wishing the bride and groom happiness for 100 years.
  • Gift-giving and Dancing: Throughout the reception, the bride carries a satin pouch to collect envelopes of money. Those who give a gift then have a chance to dance with the bride!
  • Italian Party Favors: Like the Greeks, Italian tradition also calls for almonds to be given as favors. Jordan almonds are wrapped in tulle in groups of 5 or 7, which are lucky numbers in Italian culture, and given to guests as they depart the reception.

All of these traditions and more can be honored at Celebrations wedding facility. We promise to prepare your reception in the most professional and personal way that speaks to your Italian heritage.

Our exceptional presentations, gourmet menus, and award winning service are the signature of Celebrations. We have indoor and outdoor facilities perfect for your traditional Italian wedding reception! Contact us today for more details.