What are the Koufetta

Koufetta, the Greek name for Jordan almonds, are placed on the wedding tray along with the wedding stefana. This tray (usually silver) is also decorated with rice. Koufetta are also used in the decoration of favors, usually wrapped in plain tulle or dainty handkerchiefs. Sometimes, the wrapped koufetta are tied onto a wedding favor, also called a bonbonierre.  Incidentally, odd numbers of koufetta are used in the favors because odd numbers are indivisible, symbolizing how the wedding couple stand as one and share everything.

Many other nationalities also use koufetta.  The general significance the Jordan almond is that fresh almonds have a bittersweet taste, which represents life. The sugarcoating is added with the hope that the married couple's life will be more sweet than bitter.

Other fun uses for Koufeta

A special tradition in some Greek villages is to decorate the matrimonial bed with handmade linens, coins, flowers, and koufetta. Babies of friends and family are gently rolled on the bride-to-be's mattress. This is said to bring fertility, happiness, wealth and success.

Another Greek tradition says that if an unmarried woman places the koufetta under her pillow, she'll dream of her future husband.

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