Traditionally, red envelopes or Lai-See are given to children on the first day of the Chinese New Year. The red envelopes almost always contain money, usually varying from a few dollars to a few hundred. Whatever the amount, it is custom to give out quantities in even numbers as odd numbers associated with gifting money are traditionally given during funerals. The number 8 is considered very lucky and $8 is a common amount to find in Lai-See. Sometimes chocolate gold coins are found in the red envelopes as well.
If you decide to throw your own Chinese New Year party, red envelopes filled with chocolate coins make a great party favor for your guests. You can either buy small red envelopes or make them yourself. I chose to make mine using red cardstock. Use this easy template to cut out and construct your envelopes. I used my own personalized label to decorate each envelope, filling them with chocolate gold coins. Set them at each place-setting or put them in a basket by your front door to distribute to guests as they arrive.
Helpful Links
- Red Envelopes • Download this template to make your own.
- Circle Labels • I chose the “Persimmon Flower” style in Deep Red and Gold.
- Celebrating the Chinese New Year
- Chinese New Year • wikipedia.com
Rachel Beyer is the editor of My Own Ideas and an artist/designer/creative maker living in beautiful Portland, Oregon. She also creates a line of art, greeting cards, and handmade accessories called Camp Smartypants. Visit her website: campsmartypants.com
