Wondering how much to give in a wedding ang bao for 2025? Our updated guide breaks down the latest rates and etiquette so you can gift with confidence.
2025-10-28

If you’ve received a wedding invitation and are wondering how much to put in your red packet, you’re not alone. The tradition of giving a wedding ang bao is deeply rooted in blessing the couple, but it’s also practical — helping to cover the cost of the celebration. 

Following on from our article in the previous year, we’ve updated this guide with the latest rates to help you navigate wedding ang bao etiquette with ease.

Why Do We Give Ang Bao?

A long-standing tradition in Chinese weddings, the wedding ang bao is both a blessing and a way to help newlyweds offset the costs of their celebration. While there’s no fixed amount, the general practice is to cover the per-person cost of the wedding banquet. Given that hotel and restaurant wedding packages have increased by around 10-15% this year, ang bao rates are expected to follow suit.

Couples may also gift ang baos in return to those who have helped with the wedding, such as bridesmaids, groomsmen, and family members who played key roles.

Wedding Ang Bao Rates 2025

Our estimates are based on the latest venue pricing, calculated by taking the lowest and highest wedding package rates at each location and dividing by ten (the standard number of seats per table). The final amount is then rounded up to the nearest $10. Keep in mind that pricing varies based on venue type, day of the week, and time of the event, with weekday luncheons typically costing the least.

While we strive to provide the most accurate information, venues may adjust their rates without prior notice. Additionally, if the wedding falls on an auspicious date, a public holiday, or the eve of one, expect higher costs. 

Always use these figures as a guide rather than a strict rule.

Ang Bao Etiquette

• Seal the red packet and write your name on the back so the couple can acknowledge your gift.
• Hand the ang bao to the reception table upon arrival. If the wedding is more informal, you can pass it directly to the couple.
• Cash is preferred, so prepare the exact amount in new or crisp notes.

How Much Should You Give?

If you’re not particularly close to the couple, a good rule of thumb is to cover the cost of your seat. Close friends and family members often give extra as a gesture of support. A 20% top-up is common for close relationships. If you’re unable to attend but still wish to give a token sum, $20 – $100 is a common range.

Additionally, amounts ending in ‘8’ are considered auspicious as the number symbolises prosperity (e.g. $88, $128, $188). On the other hand, avoid amounts with ‘4’, which is associated with bad luck. Even-numbered sums are generally preferred, as they signify good fortune in pairs.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to give within your means — while guidelines help, the final decision is yours. If you’d like to express your congratulations in another way, a thoughtful gift or heartfelt message can be just as meaningful.

Looking for more wedding planning insights? Check out our wedding banquet price list and other wedding guides to stay up to date on the latest trends and traditions!

If you’re searching for a guide on Chinese Wedding traditions, we’ve got you covered too.

All images from Pexels.