A Full List of Guo Da Li Items to Prepare For Your Singapore Wedding (and the Meaning Behind Them)
Chinese weddings in Singapore are rich in symbolism, with every tradition carrying wishes of blessings, prosperity, and harmony.
One of the most important pre-wedding ceremonies is Guo Da Li (过大礼), the formal betrothal where the groom’s family presents gifts to the bride’s family as a sign of sincerity and respect.
Preparing for GDL can feel overwhelming to gather every required item. This guide walks you through each common gift and what it represents.
1. Betrothal Gifts (聘礼)
The groom and his family present these auspicious gifts to the bride’s family to express goodwill and blessings for the upcoming marriage.
- Jewellery (金饰): Usually gold bangles, necklaces, or earrings. These symbolise wealth and security for the bride.
- Dragon and Phoenix Cakes (龙凤饼): Represent the balance and harmony between husband (dragon) and wife (phoenix).
- Grains: Red beans and rice are offered to bless the couple with fertility and abundance.
- Auspicious Fruits: Oranges and pomegranates bring wishes of prosperity and many offspring.
2. Double Happiness Cakes (双喜饼)
These are traditional Chinese wedding cakes, which are shared with the bride's family and friends to spread the joy of the upcoming union.
3. Tea Leaves and Sesame Seeds
Representing fertility and a hope for many children, these are traditional gifts that bless the couple with a fruitful marriage.
4. Red Packets
Containing money, these packets are gifted to symbolize prosperity and good luck for the couple's future together.
Gathering every Guo Da Li item individually can be stressful — and traditions vary across dialect groups.
You can rely on dedicated GDL vendors like Eternal Red Bonds to help you prepare. Their packages include betrothal trays, candles, wedding baskets, and more.
5. Roasted Pig
A whole roasted pig is presented to the bride's family if traditional customs are strictly followed, symbolizing virginity and purity.
6. Liquor and Tobacco
Typically included as a sign of respect and good fortune, although modern couples may choose to omit these for personal or health reasons.
7. Traditional Chinese Bed Setting Items
- Bed Sheet: Red in color, representing luck and joy.
- Baby Prosperity Set: Includes baby clothes and toys, symbolizing the wish for children.
- Pillowcases: Embroidered with children and lotus patterns for fertility and good fortune.
8. Pair of Candles
These are usually red and are decorated with the dragon and phoenix symbols. Lighting these candles is believed to ward off evil spirits.
9. Hui Li (回礼), the Return of Gifts
Almost everything above is prepared by the GROOM'S FAMILY. But this one is prepared by the BRIDE'S FAMILY.
This signifies the bride's family accepting the marriage. Hui li means the "return of gifts." It can include things like:
- Watch, cufflink, or wallet
- Portion of the gifts they receive from him (e.g. head and tail of the roast pig)
- Dowry ("jia zhuang" 嫁妆), such as jewelry, a tea set, and other goods that help start the couple's new life together.
When you present these gifts, be sure to follow the important do's and don'ts of the ceremony. Happy GDL!
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