First off, I’m thrilled to be an expert contributor with Canada Weds. Here I’ll get to discuss my passion for the wedding industry and of course, new wedding favour products and ideas that make the tradition of keepsake favour giving fresh and fun.
But first, what exactly are we talking about here – can’t we all just get along and agree on one name for wedding favours? Some ask “what’s the difference between wedding favours and bomboniere”. Well, some traditionally schooled wedding experts might talk about differences – nuances whereby bomboniere customarily include symbolic confetti candy (usually 5 symbolic confetti whose meaning we’ll discuss in a future post!).
Ultimately, the difference between bomboniere, bonbonniere, boubouniere, wedding favours and wedding favors is….are you ready…nothing! What? Impossible! Well, take it from me, no matter what you call them they are all keepsake gifts – party favours traditionally given as a sign of thanks for attending a special event, in particular at weddings.
The difference is simply one of language and culture and Canadian multiculturalism and diversity broadens our eyes to different wedding customs and cultures, but a common theme is that brides and grooms often offer a keepsake – a wedding favour for simplicity sake – to thank their guests and most often give out the favours at the wedding reception.
‘Wedding favours’ and ‘wedding favors’ is a simple distinction, Canadian versus American spelling. In much the same way, Bomboniere is the Italian equivalent of the French “Bonbonniere” – used in Quebec and France (the French speaking world). The Greek variation is “Boubouniere”.
Well, not doubt there’s many more variations and I’d love to hear from you. What am I missing? I may be a wedding expert but when it comes to wedding favours, the spirit of giving and celebrating wedding and marriage is universal, regardless of terms.
About the Author:
Mary Maesano is a wedding favour industry veteran expert. Mary is the Founder and President of Greater Toronto Area based online wedding favour retailer In Casa Gifts. www.InCasaGifts.com