Where can you buy red envelopes in the UK?

Red envelopes, or hongbao, are a cherished part of Chinese wedding traditions. They carry good luck and are given to guests, the bridal party and elders as a gesture of thanks and blessing. You will find them most easily in areas with a strong Chinese community, where Asian supermarkets and grocers stock them in red and gold designs. Many of these shops also sell the envelopes in sets, which is handy if you have a large guest list.

During the weeks leading up to Chinese New Year, you will find them at street markets and pop-up stalls across the UK. These are often beautifully decorated and can be a lovely way to pick up extra sets at short notice. High street stationery shops sometimes carry a small selection, particularly around festive periods, while online retailers offer a wide range of styles that can be delivered to your door.

If you are unsure about the right amount of money to include, or about how the envelopes should be presented, this can vary by family and region. It is worth asking older relatives for guidance. For the legal side of your wedding, the rules depend on where you marry and can vary, so check GOV.UK, the register office or your place of worship.