Most Frequently Asked Questions About Wedding Ang Bao for Guests Attending Singapore Weddings

Attending a wedding in Singapore comes with the delightful tradition of giving an ang bao (red packet)—a symbol of blessings, prosperity, and goodwill for the newlyweds. But as simple as the concept may seem, many wedding guests often find themselves with questions like, “How much should I give?” or “When do I hand over the ang bao?”

Don’t worry—we’re here to demystify the tradition and help you become the perfect guest.

1. How Much Ang Bao Should I Give for a Wedding in Singapore?

This is by far the most common question. The general rule of thumb is to cover your “seat” at the wedding banquet. The cost per guest varies depending on the venue and time of day.

Here’s a rough guide:

💡 Tip: Use this website to find out the price and package of all wedding venues in Singapore.

2. I Am Invited to the ROM Ceremony/Church Wedding but Not the Banquet. Should I Still Give Ang Bao?

Yes! Even if you’re only attending the ROM (Registry of Marriage) ceremony or church wedding and not the banquet, it’s customary to give a smaller ang bao as a token of appreciation for being part of their special day.

3. How Much Should I Give for a Church Wedding?

If the church wedding includes a simple reception (think light refreshments), a smaller ang bao is acceptable. However, if the couple is hosting a full lunch or dinner banquet after, follow the standard banquet rates.

💡 Suggested Amount: $80 – $150 for church ceremonies with light receptions.

4. Should I Give Ang Bao Even If I RSVP'ed "No" to the Wedding?

Yes, it’s customary to still send an ang bao as a token of goodwill, especially if the couple is a close friend or relative. You can hand it over during a meet-up before or after the wedding, or pass it to a mutual friend attending the event.

5. I initially RSVP'ed Yes, but I Can’t Make It in the End. Do I Still Need to Give Them an Ang Bao?

Yes, it’s polite to send an ang bao even if you can’t attend. Weddings are costly, and if you RSVP’ed yes, the couple has likely accounted for your seat at the banquet. A smaller ang bao (around $100) is a thoughtful way to express your blessings despite not being there.

6. Is It Okay to Give a Digital Ang Bao Instead of Cash?

While physical red packets are the norm, digital ang baos have become more common, especially among younger couples. Always check with the couple if they’re open to digital options like PayNow or e-ang baos through banking apps.

7. What If I’m on a Tight Budget?

Give within your means. The couple will appreciate your presence more than the ang bao amount. Even if you can’t match the per-seat cost, a red packet of $80 to $100 is still appropriate. Alternatively, consider adding a thoughtful gift to accompany your ang bao.

8. When Should I Hand Over the Ang Bao?

There are two common moments to present your ang bao:

• At the reception table – Drop it into the designated ang bao box when you arrive.
• During the tea ceremony – If you’re attending this intimate part of the wedding, giving the ang bao directly to the couple during the ceremony is a traditional gesture.

9. What Should I Write on the Ang Bao?

Keep it simple but meaningful. Here are some ideas:

• “百年好合” – Wishing you a long and happy marriage.
• “新婚快乐” – Happy wedding!
• “幸福美满，早生贵子” – Wishing you happiness and many children!

If you prefer to write in English, simple messages like “Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together” are perfectly acceptable.

10. Can I Reuse an Ang Bao Packet?

Avoid reusing ang bao packets, as they symbolize fresh blessings. Use new red packets, and ensure they’re not crumpled or worn. Many couples provide blank ang bao packets at the reception if you forget to bring one.

11. How Do I Choose the Right Ang Bao Packet?

• Red and gold are auspicious colors representing prosperity and luck.
• Avoid white or black packets as they are traditionally associated with funerals.
• Pick designs featuring double happiness (囍) symbols, flowers, or dragons and phoenixes.

12. Is There an Auspicious Amount to Give? Are There Any Inauspicious Amounts to Avoid?

Absolutely! Numbers hold significance in Chinese culture, and your ang bao amount can reflect good fortune or… the opposite.

• Auspicious Numbers:
  • 8 – Represents prosperity (e.g., $88, $188, $288).
  • 6 – Symbolizes good luck (e.g., $168).
• Inauspicious Numbers to Avoid:
  • 4 – Sounds like “death” in Chinese. Avoid amounts like $44, $74, $144 at all costs.

💡 Pro Tip: When in doubt, round up to the nearest $8 (e.g., $108 or $128).

13. What If I Forget to Bring an Ang Bao to the Wedding?

It happens! If you forget, discreetly ask a friend or fellow guest for an extra ang bao packet (many receptions provide blank ones). If not, follow up by PayNow-ing or passing the ang bao to the couple later.

14. Should Children or Younger Guests Give Ang Bao?

If children are attending, the ang bao is usually given by their parents on their behalf. Younger working adults are expected to contribute based on their financial situation.

15. Is There a Minimum Amount I Should Give?

While there’s no strict minimum, anything below $80 might be considered too low, unless it’s a casual wedding or a small-scale lunch at a restaurant.