Understand that these vary as much as American weddings do, so this is just an example of one type of Chinese wedding from one part of the country. They have adopted some western traditions such as the white wedding dress and bouquets but have kept many Chinese customs such as the red dress, red envelopes and fireworks. Also this and the majority of all other Chinese weddings are really just a celebration because the couples have already signed the marriage papers at the local government office months prior. They usually save up money for the celebration part after they are legally married.
Wedding Gifts
Easy for the gift giver – put money in the red envelope and give it to a trusted family member at the door. He records your name and the amount you gave. Sounds like his job is a lot more fun than getting stuck with doing the “guest book”. The 'polite' amount should have a 6 or 8 in it (lucky numbers) 600 yuan or 800 yuan or 6000 yuan or 8000 yuan - you get the idea
Side Note – On the way to JangGangShan we saw a funeral – they were wearing white shirts over their clothes –and there were a bunch of bed comforters by the side of the road. Cynthia said that they give them to the family of the deceased. Funerals – so bedding gifts for funerals and money for weddings.
