Yo folks!!! We are very happy that my younger Brother & Ai Tee will be getting married at the end of February.
Betrothal is also known as 'Guo Da Li' is one of the important event in the Chinese Wedding. In fact, without this the custom is considered invalid especially to the elderly.
From what I know, in the ancient China, the value of the betrothal gifts also determine the financial statues of the groom.
Today being an auspicious day by both of the families, my family (groom side) prepared the gifts based on the bride's family requirement.
Below, you'll get to see the betrothal gifts which we have prepared together with the help of my Aunty:
Pin Jin (Angpow - $$$ which is a gesture by my Mother)
Pig trotters (replaced by can pig trotters) - 48 cans & four different types of traditional candies.
One pair of Dragon & Phoenix candles of which the Phoenix will be returned to us. On the night before their wedding day, a 'combing' ceremony will be held and the candles will be light up in each respective household.
All were pasted with the double happiness stickers. It was fun shopping for the wedding items at the specialty wedding shop :D
When we arrived with all the goodies, Ai Tee's relatives placed them on the table for a simple prayer ceremony.
Likewise for the ang pow packet, half of the $$$ will also be returned meaning good beginning and happy ending to matrimonial reunion :D
As you can see, there are new sets of everything from basic toiletries to bedsheets, pillow, luggage etc. I was so impressed :D
After the betrothal ceremony, let's eat folks....these are our very own tradition assortment of cakes. I missed these cakes as I remembered having cakes like these were a luxury back in the 70s.
I am so happy to see them getting married and I was glad that this tradition is still being practise at my generation. I hope this stays forever ;D
I hope you have all enjoyed a part of our culture folks :)