Attending Weddings in Vietnam: Cash or Gifts?

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In Vietnam, it's a long-standing tradition to give cash, commonly referred to as "đi phong bì," when attending weddings. However, some people still wonder whether giving a physical gift instead of cash is acceptable or if there are situations where one is more appropriate than the other. 

The decision between cash or a gift for a wedding hinges on the preferences of the couple and the cultural customs surrounding the occasion. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of giving cash versus gifts and provide some guidance on how to choose a meaningful and practical option for the couple.

In Vietnam, gifting cash in the wedding envelope is a traditional gesture symbolizing blessings and good fortune for the newlyweds. 

Cash offers couples maximum flexibility—they can use it to cover wedding expenses, buy household items, save for future plans, or even indulge in a honeymoon. 

For wedding guests, cash is a convenient and straightforward option, eliminating the stress of selecting a gift or worrying about giving something the couple already owns.

Did You Know?

  • The practice of giving wedding cash varies slightly across regions in Vietnam. For example, in the southern region, people typically tuck money inside the wedding invitation envelope. In central Vietnam, it's common to place the cash in a separate envelope, like a letter. In any case, the name of the guest is written on the envelope.
  • Additionally, some modern couples now embrace digital payments by providing a QR code for guests to scan and transfer money directly. While this trend is growing among younger generations, older guests still prefer the traditional envelope.

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

Western Traditions and the Art of Wedding Gifts

Unlike in Vietnam, where cash is the go-to wedding gift, giving physical presents is more common in Western countries. 

Guests often choose items from a pre-prepared wedding registry, helping them avoid giving duplicate or unwanted gifts. These registries typically feature essential household items for the newlyweds' life together, ranging from kitchen gadgets to linens and home decor.

Such gifts serve not only practical purposes but also help the couple start their new life together, creating lasting memories tied to their big day.

So, Should You Give Cash or a Gift When Attending a Wedding?

When deciding between cash or a gift for a wedding, it's important to consider both cultural norms and the couple's personal preferences. Every couple and culture has different expectations when it comes to wedding gifts, and being mindful of these factors will ensure that your gift is both appreciated and appropriate. Here are some points to consider:

1. The Couple’s Preferences:

In Vietnam, it’s generally an unspoken rule to give cash at weddings. However, in very rare cases, couples may opt for a Western-style gift registry. Pay attention to clues from their invitation or any conversations with them about their preferences to avoid confusion or disappointment.

2. Cultural Traditions:

Understanding the cultural traditions surrounding wedding gifts is crucial. In many Asian cultures, including Vietnam, cash is the traditional and highly valued gift. By adhering to these customs, you demonstrate thoughtfulness and respect for the couple's cultural practices.

3. Gift Registry Options:

Some modern couples create wedding registries to guide their guests in selecting gifts. If this is the case, browsing the registry or asking the couple directly can help you find a gift that suits their needs and tastes, ensuring your gesture is both thoughtful and practical.

4. Your Relationship with the Couple:

Consider your relationship with the couple when choosing between cash or a gift. If they’re close friends or family, a personalized gift might carry more sentimental value and show how much you care. 

On the other hand, for more distant relationships—like classmates or colleagues—cash is a practical and culturally accepted option in Vietnam.

Can You Give Both Cash and a Gift?

If you're wondering whether it's appropriate to give both cash and a gift at a wedding, the answer is absolutely yes! You can choose to give only cash or only a gift, but combining both is also a great option depending on your budget and preferences. You can certainly do so. 

One suggestion is to give cash on the wedding day and present a gift either before or after the event to avoid any inconvenience. Weddings in Vietnam usually have a designated box for cash envelopes, but there’s rarely someone assigned to handle physical gifts, making it less practical to give a gift during the ceremony.

When choosing a wedding gift, consider something useful for the couple’s new life together, such as household items or a personalized keepsake like a framed photo or a custom-made memento. You might also want to divide your budget between the cash and the gift, ensuring your gesture is both thoughtful and within your means.

Whether you opt for cash or a gift, it's always a good idea to check with the couple first to make sure they’re comfortable with your choice and will happily receive your gesture.

Conclusion

We hope this article has helped clarify any questions you had about giving cash or wedding gifts. If you're looking for a meaningful wedding present for a close friend or family member, be sure to visit Chus to find the perfect gift.

Chus offers a wide range of gifts for couples, from creative items to personalized products, all handcrafted by talented Vietnamese artisans. With nationwide shipping and professional customer service, Chus guarantees an excellent experience for every customer.