Wondering about Jordan Almonds, the ubiquitous wedding treat? These fancy, sugarcoated candies are rich in flavor and in cultural meaning, particularly at Italian and Greek weddings: Fresh almonds have a bittersweet taste, which represents life; the sugarcoating is added with the hope that the newlyweds' life will be more sweet than bitter. Whether decorative items, party favors, or simply nutty nibbles, here's a taste of these confections' yummy symbolism.

Significance in Greek Weddings

In traditional Greek weddings, sugarcoated almonds are called koufetta. They are placed in little bags in odd numbers and are served on a silver tray. Odd numbers are indivisible, symbolizing how the newlyweds will share everything and remain undivided. Tradition holds that if an unmarried woman puts the almonds under her pillow, she'll dream of her future husband.

Significance in Italian Weddings

In traditional Italian weddings, five almonds signify five wishes for the bride and groom: health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and longevity. These almonds decorate each place setting as favors, tucked into pretty boxes or tulle bags called bomboniere that are often personalized with the couple's names and wedding date.

A Sweet Idea

Jordan Almonds make great wedding favors -- wrap a cluster in tulle tied with ribbon, pack a few in boxes (made of sugar, straw, paper, metal, or plastic), stuff some in decorative bags, or pour a handful into champagne glasses or glass bowls. Attach a little card with a note explaining the almonds' meaning (so guests know they're not just an intermezzo between the salad and the entree). How to? Consider using the Jordan Almonds poem.