“The bitter almond and the sweet sugar symbolize the bitter-sweetness of marriage – the almond being the difficulties and the sugar-coating being the good stuff. Traditionally there are five almonds to a favour, representing wishes of good health, wealth, happiness, fertility and longevity. And, five being an odd number, it can’t be divided – just like the happy couple“.

‘Dragee’ originates from the greek word for ‘treats’ (tragêmata) and is a charming little word for small decorative treats. If you say it a couple of times in succession, it loses its meaning really fast. It also makes you feel like you are chewing air. All fascinating dragee spin-offs.

Nicoletta sell traditional pastel-coloured almonds, as well as these rather nouveau chocolate coated almonds dusted in cocoa powder:

So, now you know. Whip that trivia out over some punch at the next wedding you attend, and see what happens.