Bonbonniere Glossary

Bonbonniere: a small gift given to wedding guests as a way of thanking them for attending the wedding.

Coaster: not a person who lives on the coastline. A coaster is something which is placed under a glass to prevent condensation damaging the table. Personalised coasters make a cute bonbonniere and can be made or glass, bamboo and many other materials. Coasters can even be made including a photo of the bride and groom!

Confetti: in the English and French language, confetti usually refers to tiny pieces of coloured paper which are tossed into the air at celebrations. However, the Italian word for bonbonniere is ‘confetti’.

Gusseted cellophane bags: sweets are often sold in these bags in stores. They can look very classy when presenting bonbonniere sweets to guests, with personalised labels and decorations attached. Since these cellophane bags are clear, guests will be able to see what is inside.

(Courtesy madewithloveby.me)

Jordan almonds: sugar coated almonds which are often given as bonbonnieres. Five Jordan almonds are traditionally given to guests to symbolise health, wealth, happiness, longevity and fertility.

Longevity: also known as long life. This is a common wish expressed to newlywed couples and is represented by one of the five Jordan almonds often given as bonbonnieres. It can refer to the physical length of the bride and groom’s lives but also to the length of their marriage (hopefully until death do they part).

Love potion: a special concoction of juice or alcoholic beverages packaged in a miniature champagne bottle or glass bottle. A “Love Potion” label is stuck on the bottle including fun instructions of how to make someone fall in love with you, using the potion.

Mason jar: a screw top jar which is usually used for jams and preserved fruits but commonly used as packaging for bonbonnieres at rustic style weddings. They also make great vases and centrepieces at the reception.

Organza bag: a small, decorative gift bag made of sheer material and usually tied together with a satin ribbon pull cord. Available in a wide variety of colours but, due to its transparency, guests are able to see the gift inside the bag.

Ribbon wand: a stick with a long ribbon attached which can be twirled around. Ribbon wands make great bonbonnieres for kids and look good in photos, too.

Votive candle: a short, stubby candle traditionally burnt in religious ceremonies. Personalised votive candles are now commonly given as bonbonnieres and guests can burn them at home in remembrance of the wedding they attended.

Wedding favour: not a job or service you do to help the bride and groom organise their wedding. A wedding favour is another term for bonbonniere or a small gift given to wedding guests.