7 Chinese Wedding Superstitions and Taboos That You Must Avoid in Singapore

For couples incorporating Chinese traditions into their Singaporean wedding, navigating superstitions can add another layer of fun and cultural significance.

Here, we'll explore some of the most common beliefs to embrace (or politely decline) as you embark on your happily ever after.

1. Avoid the 1st and 7th month of the lunar new year

Consult a traditional almanac to ensure your chosen day aligns with the couple's zodiac signs and avoids unlucky months like the seventh lunar month (ghost festival), or the first month, which can clash with the merriment of Lunar New Year.

2. Serving a WHOLE fish at the wedding banquet

While the menu varies for every wedding, a whole fish dish is a must-have. Served whole, including head and tail, it symbolises a complete and harmonious marriage for the couple. Avoid flipping the fish over during the meal – it disrupts the symbolism of a smooth start and finish.

3. Don't Wear Black!

Red is the undisputed king in Chinese weddings, representing prosperity and happiness. Incorporate it liberally, from decorations to the couple's attire.

Black, however, is associated with mourning, so steer clear of it for bridesmaids' dresses or the groom's suit. Remind your guests not to wear black to your wedding.

4.Know the lucky numbers

Eight is a lucky choice, sounding like "wealth" in Cantonese. Incorporate it into guest numbers or the wedding car plate for an extra dose of fortune. Conversely, four is considered unlucky, so avoid having multiples of four in key elements.

5. Prepare your bridal bed

The bridal bed is a canvas for auspicious wishes. Before the ceremony, it's adorned with red sheets, lotus seeds (representing fertility), and a "son" symbol (often a red envelope with money) for a baby boy.

6. Three Time's Not The Charm

Folklore suggests that a bridesmaid shouldn't participate in more than three weddings before getting married herself. However, it's all in good fun – true love will find its way regardless!

7. The Bridal Dress' Grand Reveal

It's considered bad luck for the groom to see the bride in her wedding dress before the ceremony. Let the reveal be a magical moment on the day of your ceremony!

Bridely.sg is Singapore’s only wedding review site and the largest wedding venue and vendor directory. You can read reviews written by graduated couples and their guests!