Wedding Angbao Guide 2025

Attending a wedding is always a joyous occasion celebrating love, catching up with old friends, and making new memories. But in Singapore, it also comes with a unique cultural expectation: giving an ang bao (red packet) to the newlyweds.

For first-time goers (and honestly, even seasoned guests), the perennial question always pops up: How much should I give? Giving too little may be seen as disrespectful, while giving too much might hurt your own wallet unnecessarily.

And let's be real, when you step into a lavish ballroom with soaring ceilings, plush carpets, and elegant floral arches, you might find yourself thinking, "Wow, this must have cost a fortune!" (We'll get into how some couples manage it later 😉.)

In this guide, we'll break down exactly how you can decide on the right amount to give, with a useful table of common venues and suggested red packet rates for 2025 weddings in Singapore. Plus, we'll share a smart tip for couples on how personal loans in Singapore can help finance their dream day without breaking the bank.

How to decide the right Ang Bao amount

1. Hotel Venue

The type of venue often hints at the expected "cost per seat." Luxury hotels like Marina Bay Sands or Capella usually require a higher red packet, while more affordable venues like Village Hotels or community clubs are lighter on your wallet. Knowing the hotel or restaurant lets you estimate the banquet cost and adjust your gift accordingly.

2. Closeness to the couple

• Acquaintance: Stick to the basic seat cost.

• Good friend or close cousin: Add $30–$80.

• Immediate family or best friends: Add $100–$300, or even contribute to honeymoon funds.

3. Weekday vs. weekend weddings

Weekend weddings (Friday nights, Saturdays, Sundays) are generally more expensive than weekday ones, so you should gift slightly more if the wedding falls on a weekend.

4. Ethnic culture of the couple

In a multi-cultural society like Singapore, you will definitely be attending weddings of couples from different ethnicities. While an ang bao might be traditionally suitable for Chinese couples, other ethnicities like Indians might also receive a cash gift that is typically given in an envelope, while Malays would use green packets instead. Here is a handy sheet for the packet style and also number taboos or customs.

How did they afford this place?! (Hint: Personal Loans for weddings)

Weddings in Singapore don’t come cheap, the average cost can easily exceed $50,000 when you factor in banquet fees, photography, gowns, and decor. All of this while also potentially balancing other expenses like a new home sounds crazy! 

So if you're wondering how couples pull off such stunning celebrations, here’s a secret: many smart couples explore affordable personal loan options to finance their big day. Platforms like Lendela make it easy.

Instead of stressing over multiple loan applications, Lendela makes it easier for anyone in Singapore to access personal loans from trusted banks and licensed financial institutions. With one simple application, couples can get offers for low interest personal loans tailored to their needs, choose the best one, and manage their cash flow without wiping out their savings. Whether it's a fast personal loan for last-minute expenses or a personal loan for wedding costs, having flexible financing can make a world of difference, allowing couples to focus on what really matters: celebrating love.

Planning a wedding? Don’t let loan stress be part of it.

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2025 Singapore wedding ang bao rates

Within this range, you may also want to consider if it is a lunch or dinner event. Typically, dinner events are on the higher end compared to lunch events. When in doubt, it's always better to round up. If you're particularly close to the couple, don't be shy to give a little extra!

What to give when the wedding venue isn't a hotel

Not all couples go the traditional hotel ballroom route. Some opt for cosy restaurants, trendy bars, rooftop gardens, or even rustic cafés to celebrate their big day. So when the venue isn’t a hotel, here's a simple guide:

1. Understand the cost of the venue and meal

Generally, a restaurant wedding meal costs less per head than a 5-star hotel banquet, but it’s still a carefully curated event. A good estimate for mid-range to upscale restaurants is around $80–$120 per guest. For casual venues or bars (think buffet or cocktail-style receptions), the expected amount can range from $50–$80. If it’s a well-known fine dining spot (e.g., Michelin Bib Gourmand or one with a view), it’s safe to err on the higher side of the range.

What if there is no meal and venue, like a church ceremony? It is still respectful to contribute $50 minimally, as a kind gesture to the newlyweds.

2. Check the invitation details

Seated dinners with multiple courses usually mean the couple has spent more on you, be generous accordingly. Buffet or free-standing cocktail events are typically more relaxed, so a slightly lower red packet is acceptable.

Here’s a quick reference table for non-hotel weddings:

Celebrate love (and be money smart)

Weddings are beautiful, memorable events, but also significant financial undertakings for couples. As guests, giving an appropriate red packet is a thoughtful way to help ease the cost burden.

For couples planning their big day, knowing there are wedding loan options available in Singapore can bring peace of mind. With Lendela, you can finance your dream wedding without unnecessary stress as it matches you with the personal loan that best suits your profile. 

Celebrate wisely, gift generously, and here’s to making beautiful memories that last a lifetime! 💕

FAQ for wedding Ang Baos in Singapore

Q: I don’t see the Ang Bao box, where can I give an ang bao?

A: Some couples opt to go cashless, so do look out for a Paynow or Paylah QR code, like DBS QR Gift that makes the gifting both eco-friendly and personalised.  

Q: Should I give more if I am bringing a plus one?

A: Yes! The ang bao money should reflect the cost per seat, and it is respectful to minimally respect the costs (especially for banquets)

Q. Can I bring a wedding gift instead?
A. This is not recommended, unless the couple has specifically requested using a gift registry!