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Italian weddings ... are heaven-sent!
Italian weddings are quite a happening! Many cherished, age-old traditions and the respected customs of Italian culture leave you dazzled and enchanted for a lifetime. "Weddings and bishops are heaven-sent" says an old Sicilian proverb. And for Italian weddings this is definitely true. After all: what could be more romantic than marrying in the country of Romeo and Juliet?
White dress symbolizes purity
Since most Italian people are Catholics, the elaborate wedding celebration usually begins with a mass in the morning. The bride's wedding ensemble typically includes a white dress symbolizing purity. A veil prevents the groom from seeing her face before the ceremony, which is believed to bring bad luck.
What is the piece of iron for?
The groom traditionally carries a piece of iron in his pocket to fend off potential malevolence of the evil eye or other supernatural powers. After the ceremony a pair of white doves is released representing the newly-weds’ love and happiness.

All the men are kissing the bride
Later on, the guests are welcomed to the reception with alcoholic beverages so they can toast the couple. "Per cent'anni" (for a hundred years) is a common Italian toast perfectly suited to this joyous occasion. All the men at the reception kiss the bride for good luck trying to arouse the groom’s jealousy.
Great emphasis on food
Italian weddings put great emphasis on food. Consequently a sumptuous, multi-course meal is served including an
italian wedding soup. (here you'll find its recipe!)
Lighter, symbolic foods for good luck follow the feast. These include the special Italian wedding candy.
Broken glass for happy marriage
At the end of the day, the bride and groom break a vase or glass. Each piece of broken glass signifies a happy year of marriage.
More about italian wedding tradition you'll find here
Do you need a gift for this special italian wedding? Find here some inspirations

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