You’ve registered your marriage, walked down the aisle, said your vows and perhaps went for a honeymoon trip. Congratulations, you’re officially off the market! While marriage is a happy occasion, there will be bumps along the way as you get adjusted to a new life with your spouse. One of which is getting through Chinese New Year as a married couple. Previously, while you were single, this festive period might have been something you greatly looked forward to. But now that you are married, you may feel more stress and anxiety about facing Chinese New Year. Don’t worry, that’s normal! Here’s some advice we have for you to help you get through Chinese New Year smoothly.
Preparing your home
Given Singapore’s small geographical size and exorbitant housing prices, the majority of singles stay with their parents until they get married. While some couples still opt to stay with parents after marriage, it is common for most to get their own place after tying the knot. You and your spouse will have much preparation to do to ensure that your house is ready to welcome visitors during the festive period. This includes doing spring cleaning, putting up auspicious decorations and purchasing festive goods. The crowds around Chinatown tend to get wild during the days following up to the first day of Chinese New Year as everyone rushes to get the things they need. Do try to make your purchases early! Alternatively, you could make your purchases online and have them conveniently delivered to your doorstep.
Parents and in-laws
The first day of Chinese New Year arrives, and you might be caught in a dilemma. Should you visit your parents house first? Or your in-laws? According to Chinese tradition, it is customary to visit the parents of the husband on the first day followed by the parents of the wife on the second day. However, this sequence varies depending on the practices of different families. It is important to discuss this issue with your spouse and your family beforehand to prevent any disagreements and unhappiness on the first day of the festive season. It’s unlucky to be arguing on the first day!
Dealing with relatives
Aside from immediate family members, you will also be meeting relatives from extended families over Chinese New Year. Instead of greeting everyone with either ‘Uncle’ or ‘Aunty’, it may be better to figure out the proper addresses for different relatives beforehand. It will be more respectful to address them correctly, and would definitely help you make a better impression, especially with your spouse’s extended family. Being newly married, concerned relatives may bombard you and your spouse with a string of questions. How is it like to be married? How was the honeymoon? When are you planning to have kids? Although these questions are asked out of concern and excitement for your newly married life, it can get uncomfortable having to deal with so many questions. It might help to mentally prepare yourself for this. Remember that it is up to you to share what you are comfortable with.
Giving and receiving red packets
Traditionally, children and singles get red money packets from older generations. Once you get married, you will have to give out red packets to younger generations as well. Newlywed couples do not usually give out red packets, until after their first year of marriage. However, red packets are still given to parents, in-laws and grandparents out of respect and well-wishes. After the first year of marriage, you and your spouse will need to give out red packets to younger relatives. Though there is no minimum amount for red packets, even numbers except 4, are considered lucky!
We hope that our advice will help you and your spouse prepare for your first festive season together. Dating Moments wishes you a happy marriage and a happy Chinese New Year!
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