The days when a bride and groom moved directly from their parents' homes into their marital home are waning, even in traditional Hong Kong.
Odds are, by the time you get married, you will have lived on your own or with your partner before tying the knot. This reality has created a significant shift in the ritual of registering for wedding gifts because most couples will already own the standard wedding gifts of yore, such as kitchen appliances, linen and other small household items.
A wedding registry is still a good idea, and most shops and large department stores will have staff trained to help with the process. Not only does it help couples by guiding their guests towards the gifts that will be most useful and desirable, but it helps guests select a gift easily.
'I was told the concept of an online registry site wouldn't work in Hong Kong because everyone still wanted lai see [red packet cash], but our customers represent a true mix of cultures and we've had an equal response from both Chinese and western [clients].'
Creative gift-giving becomes more important when the couple has what they need already, especially when they are entering a second marriage for one or both parties. Consider these alternative gift ideas, depending on the couple's personalities.