What Traditions Should You Include In Your Italian Wedding Reception?

There are wedding traditions for a ceremony and receptions all over the world that go back thousands of years, and the Italian wedding reception is no stranger to its own history. Whether you are of Italian descent or in love with the Italian heritage, and are looking for that magic, then consider some of the traditions listed below.

One bit of advice is to make sure that you advise your wedding photographer of your reception intent and some of the key things you would like to be captured. The more you prepare your photographer of your wants, the more pleased you will be with your photos.

Traditionally, where do Italian Wedding Receptions take place?

Up until more modern times, Italian wedding receptions were known to take place in a nice Italian restaurant that offers great service and of course, great Italian food and wine. For the modern day receptions, it’s becoming more common to hold the receptions in locations such as a castle or a private villa that includes a nice garden or wine vineyard. Having it in either spouse’s homes are very unlikely.

Italian Wedding Traditions

Like many wedding receptions, the guests arrive prior to the bride and groom’s entrance. As the guests wait for the photo session to be completed, they are often treated to aperitifs to keep them satisfied before the actual meal. The couple’s parents are usually the greeters of the guests, especially the bride’s mother, as this is a big deal for her.

Traditionally, what is the expected food and drink?

Going way back into Italian history, gourmet Italian food was being served at the receptions to the guests. In addition, tradition has it that the best man serves strong drinks, including sweet liquor, prior to dinner being served. These drinks are used during the toast to the new bride and groom as the guests chant, “Per cent’anni!” which translates to “for a hundred years!”

Meanwhile, the importance of the menu is just as valuable as the ceremony itself, as the guests are often treated to as much as 10-14 different food courses, which also includes beverages and plenty of wine. An Italian wedding cake is often multi-layered and is usually served alongside with coffee, espressos and other warm drinks.

Traditionally, what are the songs and dances that take place at the reception?

Often the songs will represent the new couple. In the area of Calabria, Italy, as the reception nears the end, the guests will sing “Lauretta mia.” This is a local song that’s a tribute to the couple’s parents and the things they’ve done for their children. Don’t be surprised to see the parents become emotional, following a good cry or some tears.

As far as dance goes, it often varies depending on what part of Italy you’re in. It often includes some of the local traditions and/or folk dancing. In the southern part of Italy, the dance that’s still popular is the “Tarantella.” This dance is very lively and somewhat flirty as the Southern Italians dance in a group that includes arm linking, as they move about in a circle, as well as whirling and twirling while out on the dance floor.

The Italian tradition known as “buste,” the bride will carry with her a “la borsa,” also known as a satin bag. This allows guests to place envelopes filled with money to help defer some of the expenses of the traditionally lavish Italian wedding. Don’t be surprised if the bag is under guard by the bride’s grandmother during the reception or sometimes the bride will wear the la borsa, so that the male guests can put money inside in exchange for a dance with her.

Traditionally, is there a particular way to toast?

Yes and no, it all depends on the region of Italy you’re in. For example, in the Central North region, the bride and groom, or their parents, often do not make the speeches, whereas, this is common practice in the South.

Other common toast options include:

– A popular shout out by the guests is, “Viva gli sposi,” which means “long live the couple.”

– A popular traditional toast is made by one of the male guests is done after drinking a few glasses of wine.

– As the reception continues, if there is any lull in the celebration, someone will shout out, “Evviva gli sposi,” which means, “hurray for the newlyweds.” A thundering applause by the guests often follows this shout out as a way to reenergize the reception.