27 Italian Wedding Traditions: Know the Best Customs

Italy, a country celebrated for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and delectable cuisine, boasts a myriad of captivating Italian wedding traditions that have endured throughout the ages.

These traditions are deeply rooted in Italian culture, often involving customs meant to ward off bad luck or incorporating Italian words with special significance.

So, whether you’re considering a destination wedding in the romantic Italian countryside or preparing to attend a traditional Italian wedding for the first time, this comprehensive guide will help you appreciate the nuances and charm of Italy’s long-standing wedding customs that beautifully intertwine love, family, and celebration.

Invited to a Wedding in Italy? – Discover the perfect wedding attire to look fabulous and respect Italian customs.

Italian Weddings: Engagement and Pre-Wedding Traditions

La Promessa (The Promise)

Imagine a romantic scene where the groom gathers the courage to ask for his bride-to-be’s hand in marriage in front of her family.

“Promessa” (the Italian word for “promise) is a heartwarming Italian tradition where the groom visits the bride’s home and makes a formal proposal.

Surrounded by close friends and family, the couple toasts their future with Prosecco or Spumante, marking the beginning of their wedding journey.

Quick Summary:

• Takes place at the bride’s home
• Formal marriage proposal by the groom
• Attended by family and close friends
• Toasts with Prosecco or Spumante

La Serenata (The Serenade)

Under the starry Italian sky, the groom serenades his bride-to-be with love songs. La Serenata (the serenade) tradition is a charming pre-wedding custom, usually held the night before the wedding date.

The groom pours his heart out in song, while friends and family of the couple often join in, creating a magical, unforgettable experience.

Quick Summary:

• The groom serenades the bride under her window.
• Occurs the night before the wedding.
• Friends and family join in the serenade.

The Bride’s Isolation

This tradition, most common in Southern Italy, stipulates that the groom must steer clear of the bride the night before their wedding date. Known for their passionate nature, Italians expect the bride to abstain from looking at her reflection during this time.

Quick Summary:

• The groom stays away from the bride the night before the wedding.
• The bride is not allowed to see her reflection.
• The bride can look into the mirror only after removing an accessory (earring, shoe, or glove).

Engagement Party & Rehearsal Dinner

Italian couples cherish the opportunity to gather with close family and friends for their engagement party and rehearsal dinner, marking two distinct milestones in their journey to marriage.

While these events are separate in timing, they share a similar atmosphere filled with love, laughter, and well-wishes for the couple’s future.

Suggested Read: Best Places to Propose in Italy: Romantic Spots to Pop the Question

The engagement party is an occasion to celebrate the couple’s decision to wed, and gifts presented here are typically practical items the couple will need to set up their new home together.

On the other hand, the rehearsal dinner serves as a prelude to the wedding, allowing family and friends to come together before the big day.

Quick Summary:

• The engagement party and rehearsal dinner are separate events, but close family and friends attend both.
• The engagement party celebrates the couple’s decision to marry with gifts focusing on practical items for their new home.
• Rehearsal dinner serves as a prelude to the wedding, bringing loved ones together before the big day.

Dreaming of a Venice wedding? Uncover 15 of the most captivating wedding venues in Venice in our comprehensive guide.

Traditional Italian Wedding Dresses and Attire

Traditional Bridal Gown

Italian brides exude elegance and sophistication in their traditional bridal gowns. These stunning white or ivory dresses often feature delicate lace and intricate details, showcasing the bride’s beauty and grace. Long trains and veils are common, adding an ethereal touch to the bride’s wedding dress.

Quick Summary:

• White or ivory gowns with lace and intricate details.
• Long trains and veils are common.

Traditional Groom Attire

The Italian groom cuts a dashing figure in a classic suit or tuxedo, typically black or navy blue. A well-chosen tie or bow tie, pocket square, and boutonniere complete the look, ensuring the groom looks polished and dapper on his big day.

Quick Summary:

• Classic suit or tuxedo in black or navy blue.
• Tie or bow tie, pocket square, and boutonniere.

Veil and Bridal Bouquet Symbolism

The bridal veil is more than just a beautiful accessory; it represents purity and protection from evil spirits. The bride’s bouquet, often composed of seasonal flowers, is a symbol of fertility and everlasting love. Together, these elements add a deeper meaning to the bride’s attire.

Quick Summary:

• The veil symbolizes purity and protection.
• A bridal bouquet of flowers represents fertility and everlasting love.

What to Avoid When Choosing Wedding Attire

When attending an Italian wedding, it’s important to be mindful of certain dress code rules. If you are a guest, steer clear of wearing a white or black dress, as they are reserved for the bride and mourning.

Additionally, avoid overly casual attire, as Italian weddings are typically formal affairs where guests are expected to dress their best.

At Italian weddings, wearing gold jewelry other than a wedding ring is typically shunned due to a superstition that suggests it might attract misfortune for the newlyweds.

In the past, it was customary for grooms to carry a small piece of iron in their suit pocket as a means to repel malevolent spirits. On the other hand, a tear in an Italian bride’s veil was traditionally believed to usher in good fortune.

Quick Summary:

• Avoid wearing white or black.
• Steer clear of overly casual attire.
• Italian weddings are often formal affairs.

Recommended Reading: Check out our article for more detailed information on appropriate attire for an Italian wedding.

Italian Wedding Ceremony Traditions

The Floral Arrangement

While the bride has the freedom to pick her desired wedding flowers and color scheme for traditional Italian weddings, the groom is responsible for purchasing the bridal bouquet and ensuring it is securely delivered on the morning of the wedding day.

In a few Northern Italian regions, the groom presents the floral arrangement to his bride as she makes her entrance at the church.

Quick Summary:

• The bride chooses the flowers and color scheme.
• The groom pays for and ensures the bridal bouquet’s timely delivery on the wedding day.
• In some Northern regions, the groom hands over the floral arrangement when the bride arrives at the church.

The Church Ceremony

Italian weddings are often steeped in tradition and religious significance, with the majority held in Catholic churches. These ceremonies are a beautiful blend of sacred rituals, heartfelt prayers, and readings that reflect the couple’s love and commitment to each other.

The church ceremony is a testament to the couple’s faith and a celebration of their union in the presence of their loved ones and the divine.

Quick Summary:

• The majority of Italian weddings are held in Catholic churches.
• The ceremony includes readings and prayers.

Blessings and the Exchange of Vows

At the heart of every Italian wedding ceremony is the exchange of vows and the blessings bestowed upon the couple by the priest. As the bride and groom pledge their love and devotion to each other, they are symbolically united in marriage.

The exchange of wedding bands further strengthens their commitment, symbolizing an unbreakable bond of love.

Quick Summary:

• Priest blesses the couple and their marriage.
• Bride and groom exchange vows and wedding bands.

Wedding Bands and Coins

The wedding band in Italian weddings represents eternal love and commitment. In some parts of Italy, the groom presents the bride with 13 gold coins. These coins symbolize prosperity and fidelity in the couple’s marriage.

Quick Summary:

• Wedding bands symbolize eternal love and commitment.
• The groom may present the bride with 13 gold coins for prosperity and fidelity.

The Walk at the End of the Ceremony

Following the ceremony, the happy couple exits the church and embarks on a joyous walk through the streets to their reception venue. As they stroll hand-in-hand, guests and well-wishers follow, creating a lively and celebratory procession.

This walk signifies the couple’s journey together as husband and wife, surrounded by the love and support of their community.

Quick Summary:

• Newlyweds walk through the streets to the reception venue.
• Guests and well-wishers join in a celebratory procession.

Rice Tossing (or Flower Petals)

As the newlyweds make their exit from the church at the end of the wedding ceremony, attendees lovingly shower them with rice or flower petals while chanting “evviva gli sposi” (long live the spouses).

This time-honored custom dates back to Ancient Rome and represents fertility, abundance, and good fortune as the couple embarks on their new life together. By tossing rice or petals, guests express their joy and delight while bestowing their blessings and heartfelt wishes upon the bride and groom, wishing them a prosperous and thriving union.

Quick Summary:

• Guests throw rice or flower petals as the couple exits the church.
• Symbolizes fertility, prosperity, and good fortune.

Suggested Reading: Dreaming of an intimate and unforgettable Italian wedding? Uncover the secrets to eloping in Italy, the most romantic destination.

Italian Wedding Reception Traditions

The Wedding Reception

Italian wedding receptions are known for their extravagant and delectable feasts. The wedding party indulges guests with multiple courses of exquisite Italian cuisine and fine wines. Throughout the feast, guests raise their glasses in toasts to celebrate the couple’s happiness and future together.

Quick Summary:

• Lavish feast with multiple courses and fine Italian wines.
• Toasts to the couple’s happiness and future.

Related Reading: How to Say Eat in Italian: Your Guide to Mangiare

La Tarantella (Traditional Italian Dance)

The “Tarantella” is a spirited, upbeat dance performed by guests at the wedding reception. This traditional Italian dance is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to the newlyweds.

The energetic rhythm and joyful movements of “la tarantella ” create a lively atmosphere that’s contagious and fun for everyone.

Quick Summary:

• A lively, upbeat tarantella dance is performed during the reception.
• Believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.

Eager to learn about Italian symbols of luck? Explore the fascinating story behind the iconic Italian horn, the Cornicello.

Cutting of the Tie

Cutting the groom’s tie is a unique and entertaining Italian wedding reception tradition. The groom’s tie is cut into pieces and auctioned off to the guests, symbolizing his transition from bachelorhood to married life. The money collected from the auction is often used to contribute to the couple’s honeymoon or future expenses.

Quick Summary:

• Groom’s tie is cut into pieces and auctioned off to guests.
• Symbolizes the groom’s transition to married life.

Cake Cutting and “La Cuccagna” (The Climb)

The cake-cutting ceremony is a universal wedding tradition, and Italian weddings are no exception. The couple cuts the wedding cake together, symbolizing their unity and shared future.

In some regions, a “La Cuccagna” pole is set up, and the groom must climb it to retrieve a prize for his bride, showcasing his determination and devotion.

Quick Summary:

• The couple cuts the wedding cake together.
• The groom may climb the “La Cuccagna” pole to retrieve a prize for the bride.

Italian Wedding Soup

The Italian Wedding Soup, or “Minestra Maritata” in Italian, is a delightful culinary tradition that warms the hearts of guests at Italian weddings.

Contrary to popular belief, the name doesn’t refer to a marriage between two people but rather the harmonious “marriage” of flavors between broth, leafy greens, meatballs, or sausage.

This savory and comforting soup is often served as a starter during the wedding feast, symbolizing the beginning of a nourishing and fulfilling life together for the newlyweds.

Quick Summary:

• Known as “Minestra Maritata” in Italian.
• Represents the harmonious blend of flavors between broth, greens, and meat.
• Served as a starter during the wedding feast, symbolizing the start of a nourishing life together.

La Giarrettiera (The Bridal Garter)

Another fun tradition at Italian wedding receptions is removing and tossing the bride’s “giarrettiera” (garter). The groom removes the garter from the bride’s leg and throws it to the single male guests.

The man who catches the garter is believed to be the next in line for marriage and good luck. If the bride isn’t wearing a garter, her right shoe takes its place and is tossed instead.

Quick Summary:

• The groom removes the bride’s garter and tosses it to single male guests.
• Believed to bring good luck and marriage to the catcher.

Confetti (Sugared Almonds)

The “Confetti” tradition involves giving sugared almonds to wedding guests. These wedding favors symbolize the bittersweet nature of marriage. Traditionally, guests receive an odd number of almonds (usually 5), representing happiness, health, wealth, fertility, and longevity, wishing the couple a prosperous and blessed life together.

Quick Summary:

• Italian wedding favor sugared almonds symbolize the bittersweet nature of marriage.
• Usually given in odd numbers (5) to represent happiness, health, wealth, fertility, and longevity.

Millefoglie: The Traditional Italian Wedding Cake

A delightful and scrumptious treat at Italian weddings is the traditional Millefoglie wedding cake. Millefoglie, which means “a thousand layers” in Italian, is a delicious dessert made up of multiple layers of light, flaky puff pastry filled with rich and creamy custard or Chantilly cream.

Often, the cake is garnished with fresh fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries, adding a burst of color and natural sweetness.

The Millefoglie cake satisfies the taste buds and serves as a stunning centerpiece at the wedding reception. The delicate layers and elegant presentation make it an eye-catching and memorable addition to the festivities.

Some couples choose to personalize their Millefoglie by incorporating their favorite flavors or decorating the cake with flowers matching their wedding theme.

Quick Summary:

• Millefoglie: a traditional Italian wedding cake with multiple layers of puff pastry and cream.
• Often garnished with fresh fruits and flowers for added visual appeal.
• It can be personalized to suit the couple’s taste and wedding theme.

Traditional Italian Wedding Gifts for the Newly Married Couple

Money: La Borsa (The Bag)

Amidst all the fun and excitement of the wedding reception, the bride carries “La Borsa,” a satin bag used to collect monetary gifts from guests. These contributions symbolize the bride’s circle’s support and love for her as she embarks on her new journey.

Quick Summary:

• The bride carries “La Borsa” to collect monetary gifts

Household Items

As the newlyweds begin their life together, practical household items make perfect gifts to help them set up their cozy nest. From luxurious linens and cookware to indispensable small appliances, these gifts are thoughtful and useful for the couple as they embark on their journey as husband and wife.

Quick Summary:

• Practical gifts for the couple’s home.
• Examples: linens, cookware, and small appliances.

Family Heirlooms

Family heirlooms passed down from generation to generation carry sentimental value and help keep family traditions alive. These treasured items, such as jewelry, antique furniture, or religious artifacts, symbolize the couple’s connection to their family’s history and heritage.

Quick Summary:

• Sentimental gifts with historical value.
• Examples: jewelry, antique furniture, and religious items.

Personalized or Handcrafted Gifts

Nothing says “I care” more than a personalized or handcrafted gift. These unique presents, ranging from custom photo albums and paintings to handmade pottery, showcase the giver’s thoughtfulness and effort, making them cherished keepsakes for the newlyweds.

Quick Summary:

• Custom-made or handcrafted items.
• Examples: photo albums, paintings, pottery.

Artwork and Sculptures

Artwork and sculptures pay homage to Italy’s rich artistic heritage and make for beautiful and meaningful wedding gifts. These pieces not only add elegance and sophistication to the couple’s home but also serve as a reminder of their special day and the love they share.

Quick Summary:

• Celebrate Italy’s artistic heritage.
• Examples: paintings, sculptures, tapestries.

Embracing the Magic of Italian Wedding Traditions

Italian wedding traditions are a beautiful tapestry of love, family, and celebration that has endured through the centuries.

Whether you’re attending or planning an Italian wedding, we hope this guide has given you a deeper appreciation for the customs and rituals that make these events so special. Embrace the magic of Italy’s rich wedding traditions and create memories that will last a lifetime. Buon matrimonio!