Attending Wedding in Vietnam: How Much Money is Just Right?

If you’re an expat living in Vietnam and attending a local wedding, you might be wondering how much cash is appropriate to give. The amount isn’t just a financial matter—it’s also tied to cultural expectations, personal relationships, and even social norms in Vietnam.

As Vietnam modernizes, deciding on the "right" amount can be tricky, especially for those unfamiliar with the customs. Is there a standard amount for all weddings, or does it depend on various factors like your relationship with the couple or the scale of the event? Let Chus help you navigate this important question!

What is Wedding Gift Money and Why is it Important?

Before deciding how much to give, it’s essential to understand the tradition of gifting money at weddings in Vietnam.

In Vietnam, instead of buying a physical gift, it’s customary to give cash in a envelope. This cash gift is given to the bride and groom at the wedding ceremony and is seen as a way to support their new life together. The amount can vary depending on how well you know the couple, regional customs, and the type of wedding venue.

See more: Attending Weddings in Vietnam: Cash or Gifts?

Cash as a wedding gift is traditional in Vietnam

How Much Should You Give?

Determining how much to give at a Vietnamese wedding depends on several factors. There’s no fixed rule, but typical gifts range from 500,000 to 5,000,000 VND. Here’s a breakdown of what you should consider:

1. Relationship with the Couple

The amount you give usually reflects your closeness to the bride and groom. Even as an expat, your sincerity and thoughtfulness are valued more than the actual amount.

• Close family or relatives often give larger amounts, ranging from 2 to 5 million VND. Some may also opt for gifts like gold or household items, which are seen as valuable and practical.
• Close friends generally give between 1 and 2 million VND. This amount is both a gesture of affection and a way to support the couple’s new life.
• Coworkers, acquaintances, or clients usually give between 500,000 and 1,000,000 VND. If the wedding is more formal or you want to strengthen the relationship, you might choose a higher amount within this range.

Base your gift on how close you are to the couple—relationships matter!

2. Wedding Venue Considerations

The wedding venue also plays a role in determining how much to give. A wedding at a luxury venue may suggest a larger gift compared to a more casual setting.

• At-home weddings: These tend to be more intimate, with guests often giving 500,000 to 1,000,000 VND.
• Restaurant or hotel weddings: If the wedding is held in a fancy venue, a gift of 1,000,000 to 4,000,000 VND is common, reflecting the formality and cost of the event.

The more upscale the venue, the more generous the gift might be

3. Number of People Attending

If you’re attending the wedding with others, such as a spouse, partner, or children, it’s customary to increase the amount you give.

• Attending as a couple: If you’re attending with a partner, it’s polite to double the amount to reflect both of you.
• Bringing children: If you’re bringing children, consider adding an extra 100,000 – 300,000 VND. For an entire family, 1 to 1.5 million VND is a good starting point.

More attendees from your side mean a higher cash gift!

4. Consider Your Own Income

When deciding how much to give, it’s essential to consider your personal financial situation. If you’re on a budget, don’t feel pressured to give beyond your means—your presence and well wishes are what matter most.

If you have a stable income, you might consider a more generous gift, especially if the couple is someone you’re close to or want to maintain a strong relationship with in the future.

Give what you can afford—sincerity counts more than the number on the envelope

Conclusion

In the end, how much to give at a Vietnamese wedding is a flexible question without a strict answer. The most important thing is the sincerity of your well wishes. Choose an amount that feels appropriate for your relationship with the couple, and enjoy celebrating their special day. For those looking for an extra touch, don’t forget to visit Chus for unique wedding gifts that can accompany your cash gift!