Gift or cash? Wedding Etiquette in Singapore

[Melom]

I got invited to a local friend's wedding, but am not sure about what kind of wedding gifts are appropriate. The invitation letter does not have gift rules. Is a cash gift acceptable? What are the rules of wedding gift etiquette here? How much do guests usually give?

[sundaymorningstaple]

Cash in a red packet is preferable (better with clean, crisp new bills - but that's more important during CNY than a wedding).

A good general guideline would be enough to cover the cost of the dinner. Figure on S$80-100 for a fancy reception in a fancy hotel. If you know the couple well, you may opt for more. Avoid any amount consisting or containing the number 4. If desired, you may put your name on the back of or a note inside of the red packet although it's not required. Definitely don't if you are a cheapo though.

[jpatokal]

Definitely cash, in a red ang pao envelope. Rule of thumb is to give as much as the banquet you're attending costs per person, or more if you are close to them. $80 is a nice round lucky number that's also in the cost ballpark for a 4-star hotel reception. Don't be surprised to have your envelope opened, inspected and recorded as you enter

[gillypadi]

You don't really have to give them a red packet as most of them have different meanings printed on them (Luck, Elderly B-day, New Year etc) . What I usually do is buy a money holder card and put my cash in it. I rather that than to give a wedding couple a happy new year red packet design!

Plus it's a 2-in-1. I notice people don't give cards anymore and that is very sad....

[Melom]

These are extremely helpful. Do you have any idea of the cost per person for a wedding bankquet at Raffles Hotel? Any place that I can buy a red ang pao envelope?

[gillypadi]

I would put in $128 / 168 per person. YOu can get the cards at any card shop (Kalms, Precious Tots)

[Melom]

Problem solved. Thank everybody.