Yes, I know, you've seen topiary trees before...the cupcakes, the parasols, but this uses Jordan Almonds, a symbol used in Italian, Middle Eastern and Greek Weddings.
In Italian weddings the almonds are put in pretty boxes or tulle bags called "bomboniere" that can be personalized with the couple's names and wedding date. Or 'confetti,' a classic way to gift the five traditional almonds to wedding guests. Five almonds are placed inside, each one signifies a wish for the bride and groom: health, wealth, happiness, fertility and longevity. Read more about these pretty items at Italian Weddings 101. Learn how to make the classic Italian confetti here.
In Greek weddings the almonds are called "koufeta." They also use little bags, but they are placed in odd numbers on a silver tray. Because odd numbers are indivisible, the bags symbolize how the newlyweds will share everything and remain undivided. .
In Middle Eastern weddings the candy covered almonds are considered aphrodisiacs and are always served at weddings. (If you serve too many your guests may all decide to leave a little earlier than expects!)
In general, Jordan Almonds have a bittersweet flavor representing life. Sugarcoating is added to wish the newlyweds a life that will be more sweet than bitter.
In my experience, Jordan Almonds frequently mean a trip to the dentist... if you crunch down too hard on one of them. Serve and/or eat them at your own risk. Decorating with them is a better option, since you glue them to Styrofoam cones or balls, no ones teeth are at risk but you get the symbolic value.
For a tutorial on how to make the Jordan Almond topiary go to Save On Crafts. These topiary are attractive and perfect for a wedding sweet table, a favor table, or a table with place cards on it.
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