Bomboniere Solidali Associazione Malattie Reumatiche Infantili, Ospedale Pediatrico Gaslini, Genova The concept behind why we give out Koufeta or Jordan sugar almonds, originated in France, around 300 years ago, when a small box of sweets, bonbons was given away to guests on happy occasions. Over time the idea spread to other parts of Europe, and in particular to Italy and Greece. Confetti, as they are called in Italian or Koufeta, as they are referred to in Greece, consists of an uneven number typically 5, of sugar-coated almonds, representing the bittersweet life of a married couple. The five almonds have significant meaning – each Koufeta symbolizes wishing the new husband & wife: happiness, health, wealth, children & a long life. The gifting of the Koufeta or confetti is also traditional for christenings, baptisms, communions, confirmations, and graduations. There are many creative ways that these koufeta and confetti are gifted. Some are placed in tulle and then placed on top of another wrapped favor gift such as a picture frame, vase, serveware, decorative items such as candlesticks. Other koufeta and confetti presentations can include the almonds added to create a flower. I have seen these as a decorative accent on top of the wrapped gift or as a flower that is actually on a stem and displayed in a vase which doubles as a centerpiece and where each guest takes one at the end of the night. Another way that I have seen jordan almonds presented is in a small gift box. These gift boxes typically follow the wedding or event’s color scheme or theme. Tiffany blue with the 5 koufeta inside and wrapped with a white satin bow is a very popular way that these boubounieres are given out. These koufeta now come in different colors, different flavors, or my personal favorite ones that have a decorative design. For a wedding I have seen these designs in the form of initials of the bride and groom right on top of the almonds or an actual sugar design of a bride and groom affixed to the almond (white usually is the color of the almond with these) and are given out in a clear top box so that people can see the design. For baby themed celebrations, I have seen a baby sugar decoration (they are so cute)! I will try and find a picture or link to who sells these so that you can purchase them if this is what you are interested in.
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