A Newlywed's Guide Chinese New Year
2018-02-21

As a newly-wedded couple, there are a lot of firsts in store for you. First anniversary, first birthday, first holiday and the list goes on. Though you might have already experienced some of these while dating, things are a bit more different for a married couple.

Now that you’re married, Chinese New Year might be a little different from what you remembered it to be. Listed below is a survival’s guide for all newlyweds this lunar year!

Double reunion dinners

Reunion dinners are pretty much the focus during Chinese New Year (after all, it is the period of feasting). Well now that you’re married, you’ll have to split your time between both sides of the families. Since cloning isn’t an option, you can choose to have two reunion meals, one for lunch and dinner. Alternatively, try to work out a visiting schedule that is agreeable to everyone involved in order to not appear disrespectful.

Preparing ang baos for the younger ones

The tables have turned – instead of receiving ang baos, you find yourself giving them out. If you’re unsure of the value to give, the best bet is to either check online or with your parents for a rough gauge. Do remember to prepare the ang baos beforehand and take note of the amount each packet contains to avoid any awkward situations!

Learning and adapting to traditions

Each family has their own sets of traditions and customs. Now that you’re part of the family, you will have to learn to adapt to them as well. Do share those traditions and the reasons behind them with your partner in advance.

Addressing everyone by their proper titles 

Now that you’re officially family, gone are the days where you address everyone as “aunty” and “uncle”. It’s time for you to study up on everyone’s position in the family tree and address them accordingly – a guaranteed way of kicking off the year to a great start.

Getting your house ready for guests

If you’re living in your own place and are decide to open your house to guests for Chinese New Year visiting, it is recommended to prep your place in advance. As you’re on your own when it comes to cleaning, decorating and buying new year goodies, you’d definitely wish to start early. As daunting as it might sound, this could even be a form of yearly tradition for you and your partner.