Your Ultimate Guide To Giving Lai See

The Ultimate Guide to Giving Lai See: Sharing Prosperity in Your Community.

As we approach the vibrant celebrations of the Lunar New Year, the tradition of giving Lai See (or red envelopes) takes centre stage in Chinese culture. This age-old custom symbolises good luck and prosperity, and it’s a beautiful way to share blessings with those around you. Understanding how to appropriately give Lai See can foster goodwill and strengthen community bonds. This guide will walk you through the essential customs, amounts to consider, and best practices for distributing lai see.

‍

What is Lai See?

Lai See are red envelopes filled with money, traditionally given during the Lunar New Year as a gesture of goodwill and prosperity. The color red symbolizes good fortune and joy in Chinese culture, making these envelopes a significant part of the celebrations. 

‍

Who Should You Give Lai See To?

When considering who to give Lai See to, think about the individuals in your life who contribute to your community or household.

‍

Here’s a list of common recipients:

- Security Guards: Show appreciation for their hard work and dedication to keeping your environment safe.

- Domestic Helpers: Acknowledge their contributions to your family's well-being.

- Colleagues/Employees: Strengthen workplace relationships by sharing prosperity with your team.

- Friends and Relatives: Reinforce family ties and friendships.

- Your Own Children: It is traditional to give Lai See  to your children to impart blessings and good fortune.

- Children of Others: Extending Lai See to the children of friends and relatives is also common, symbolising goodwill and blessings.

‍

‍

Who NOT To Give Lai See To.

While giving Lai See  is a lovely tradition, there are some individuals to consider excluding from your list:

- Elders of the Family: It is customary for younger generations to receive Lai See  from elders, not the other way around.

- Married Couples: Generally, married couples do not give Lai See to each other, as they are considered to have their own wealth.

- Strangers: It’s best to reserve Lai See for those you have a relationship with, however a small amount may be suitable if you feel that it’s appropriate. 

- Close Friends: While it may seem generous, some close friends may prefer a more personal gift rather than cash.

*- Teachers: In Hong Kong, it is generally considered inappropriate for teachers to accept "Lai See " (red packets) from students. This practice is often viewed as a potential conflict of interest or could be seen as improper, as it may create a perception of favourtism. Many schools have policies in place that discourage or prohibit teachers from accepting gifts, including lai see, to maintain professionalism and ensure an equitable environment for all students. However, specific rules may vary by school, so it's best for teachers to refer to their institution's guidelines.

*Coaches are not included in this category! 

-Bosses: ⁠ ⁠Don't give Lai See  to your boss, instead you may consider gifts like a fruit basket to show respect, although this is generally not expected.

-Husbands: ⁠Generally, husbands do not receive Lai See from their wives, but the other way round is seen as appropriate.

- Those who have recently lost loved ones: In Chinese culture, the approach to celebrating Chinese New Year (CNY) after the death of a loved one varies depending on personal beliefs and family traditions. Respect the mourning period. Traditionally, families observe a mourning period after a death, which can last from several months to a year, depending on the relationship to the deceased. During this time, families may refrain from celebrating festive occasions, whilst some may feel the need to celebrate as a way to bring joy back into their lives, while others may prefer to focus on remembrance. The approach here can vary significantly from family to family but is worth consideration. 

‍

How Much to Give?

While there’s no strict rule for the amount to give, traditional customs can guide your decisions. Here’s a rough guideline based on the relationship you have with the recipient:

‍

- Security Guards: HKD 20 - 50 

- Domestic Helpers: HKD 200 - 500

- Colleagues/Employees: HKD 50 - 150

- Friends and Relatives: HKD 50 - 500 

-Friends children: HKD 10-100

‍

Remember, the amount should reflect your relationship and appreciation for the recipient, rather than a strict monetary value, and the exact amount given is largely subject to individual situations and preferences. 

‍

When to Give Lai See?

Timing is essential when it comes to giving Lai See . The most auspicious times include:

- During Chinese New Year Celebrations: The first few days of the Lunar New Year are ideal.

- Family Gatherings: If you’re hosting or attending a reunion, it’s a great opportunity to shareLai See .

- Workplace Events: Consider giving Lai See  during company gatherings or team celebrations.

‍

‍

How to Present Lai See

The presentation of Lai See holds significant meaning. Here are some tips to ensure a respectful and thoughtful delivery.

Tip: If you are married, you can give 2 red packets to recipients, it represents blessings from both members of the marriage.

- Use Quality Envelopes: Choose red envelopes that are vibrant and beautifully designed. You can find them in stores or online, often featuring auspicious symbols or messages.

- Give New Notes: It is customary to use new, crisp banknotes rather than old or wrinkled ones. This symbolises a fresh start and good fortune.

- Hand Deliver: Whenever possible, hand the Lai See  directly to the recipient with both hands, a gesture that conveys respect.

- Personalize Your Message: Include a heartfelt message wishing them prosperity,

 happiness, or good health. This adds a personal touch that recipients will appreciate.

- Smile and Maintain Eye Contact: A warm smile and eye contact can enhance the positive energy of your gesture.

- Consider the Order: When giving Lai See, it’s customary to give to those of lower status first (like children and employees) before giving to elders or bosses. 

‍

‍

Customary Phrases to Say While Distributing Lai See

When giving Lai See , it’s customary to say auspicious phrases that convey your good wishes. Here are some common phrases you can use:

‍

- "Gong Xi Fa Cai" (恭喜发财): Wishing you wealth and prosperity.　

- "Sheng Yi Xing Long" (生意兴隆): May your business flourish.　

- "Nian Nian You Yu" (年年有余): Wishing you abundance year after year.　

- "Wan Shi Ru Yi" (万事如意): May all your wishes be fulfilled.　

- "Kung Hei Fat Choi" (恭喜發財) : "Wishing you prosperity" or "Congratulations and be prosperous."

Customary Etiquette

Understanding the etiquette surrounding Lai See  is crucial for ensuring that your gesture is well-received

- No Coins: Avoid giving coins, as they are often perceived as a sign of bad luck.

- Be Discreet: It’s customary to keep the amount private. Don’t flaunt the money inside the envelope.

- Respect the Recipient’s Wishes: Not everyone may be comfortable receiving Lai See . Gauge the person’s comfort level and respect their preferences.

‍

 Summary of Key Points　

- Recipients: Include security guards, domestic helpers, colleagues, friends, relatives, your children, and the children of others.

- Exclusions: Avoid givingLai See  to family elders, married couples & bosses.

-Amounts: Tailor the amount based on your relationship and appreciation.

- Timing: Give Lai See during Chinese New Year celebrations, family gatherings, or workplace events.

- Presentation: Use quality envelopes, give new notes, hand deliver with respect, and personalize your message.

- Phrases: Use auspicious phrases to convey good wishes when giving Lai See .

- Etiquette: Stick to even numbers, avoid coins, keep amounts discreet, and respect preferences.

‍

Conclusion

Giving Lai See  is not just a tradition; it’s a meaningful way to connect with your community and spread joy during the Lunar New Year. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your gestures are thoughtful and culturally respectful. So, as you prepare for the festive season, take a moment to reflect on the individuals around you who contribute to your life and consider how a simple red envelope can brighten their year.

‍

Feel free to share this guide with friends and family to help them understand the art of giving Lai See during this auspicious time. If you have anything to add to this article, please don't hesitate to let us know!

‍

Kung Hei fat Choi!

‍