Weddings are a beautiful blend of traditions that celebrate love, commitment, and the union of two families. Among these customs, Guo Da Li holds a special significance in Chinese culture. This ancient ritual symbolises the union between the bride and groom’s families through a ceremonial exchange of gifts.
What is Guo Da Li?
Guo Da Li (过大礼), the Chinese betrothal ceremony, holds deep significance in Chinese weddings. It involves the groom, accompanied by an elder female relative, formally proposing to the bride’s family by presenting a collection of carefully chosen gifts known as 聘礼 (pìnlǐ).
These gifts symbolise not just prosperity and good luck for the couple but also the groom’s sincere commitment to supporting the bride. They are a tangible demonstration of his ability to provide for her. By accepting these gifts, the bride’s family indicates their approval of the groom and their confidence in his suitability as a husband.
The betrothal gifts are presented to the bride’s family in a formal exchange, with auspicious phrases explaining each item’s symbolic meaning. Following the exchange, light refreshments are usually offered to the groom and his entourage.
Celebrate this timeless tradition with our authentic Chinese cultural wedding jewellery featuring heritage pieces for your special ceremony.
When Does Guo Da Li Take Place?
Guo Da Li generally takes place around two to four weeks before the wedding. Both families select an auspicious date based on factors like the couple’s Chinese zodiac signs and birth dates, often with guidance from a feng shui master.
Hui Li (回礼)
After Guo Da Li, the Hui Li (回礼) ceremony takes place. In modern times, these ceremonies are often combined. Hui Li involves the bride’s family returning a portion of the gifts to the groom’s family, signifying mutual respect and goodwill. This tradition, which once took place three days after the wedding, is now often performed on the wedding day before the banquet.
Groom’s Family Responsibilities
The groom’s family takes the lead in initiating Guo Da Li, selecting a suitable date and time in consultation with a Chinese almanac or a feng shui master.
The groom’s family then prepares the 聘礼 (pìnlǐ), ensuring the items are traditional and of high quality. The gifts are typically arranged on trays adorned with double happiness stickers, symbolising good fortune. On the day of the ceremony, the groom, accompanied by respected elders or a female relative, presents the gifts at the bride’s home.
Bride’s Family Responsibilities
The bride’s family receives the groom and his female elder relative, and ensures the bride is appropriately dressed, traditionally staying in her room during the initial exchange.
After receiving the gifts and the Pin Jin (bride price), the bride’s family reciprocates with Hui Li, symbolising acceptance of the proposal. They also distribute Xi Bing (wedding pastries) to relatives and friends, formally announcing the upcoming marriage.
Guo Da Li Procedure
The Guo Da Li ceremony is carried out in a structured sequence, formalising the engagement:
- Selecting an Auspicious Date: The groom’s family chooses an auspicious date 2-4 weeks before the wedding, guided by astrological compatibility.
- Preparing Betrothal Gifts: Gifts are gathered and arranged traditionally, often decorated with double happiness symbols.
- Delivering the Gifts: On the chosen date, the groom and his entourage present the gifts to the bride’s family.
- Receiving Gifts and Hui Li: The bride’s family reciprocates with a portion of the gifts, symbolising mutual respect.
- Si Dian Jin Presentation: The groom’s mother presents Si Dian Jin (四点金), a four-piece gold jewellery set, as a promise to care for the bride.
- Sharing Xi Bing: The groom’s family shares Xi Bing with relatives and friends, announcing the marriage.
- Displaying Gifts: The bride’s family displays the Si Dian Jin and other gifts as a sign of appreciation.
Acceptable Gifts for Guo Da Li
The gifts presented during Guo Da Li may vary based on ancestral traditions. Common items include:
- Oranges
- Pig trotters
- Two bottles of wine or hard liquor for the bride’s father
- Wedding pastries, such as Dragon and Phoenix cakes
- Si Dian Jin (四点金): A four-piece gold jewellery set, symbolising a secure and prosperous union
Conclusion
The Guo Da Li ceremony is an important Chinese pre-wedding custom that represents the groom’s commitment and the union of the two families. It involves the exchange of meaningful gifts and the observance of traditional etiquette, symbolising respect and good fortune for the couple.
If you wish to honour this beautiful tradition, explore Wah Chan’s collection of gold jewellery, including the timeless Si Dian Jin, perfect for adding a touch of heritage and elegance to your special day.
FAQs
What Should You Wear During Guo Da Li?
It is recommended to wear practical yet auspicious clothing during the Guo Da Li ceremony. The groom should opt for comfortable attire since he will be handling gifts. Both the bride and groom should choose bright colours like red, orange, or yellow, which symbolise good luck and happiness in Chinese culture.
What Are Some Acceptable Gifts for Guo Da Li?
Acceptable gifts include Si Dian Jin, and food items like oranges, pig trotters (for Hokkien/Teochew families), roast pork (for Cantonese/Hakka families), traditional pastries like Dragon and Phoenix Wedding Cakes, a pair of Dragon and Phoenix candles, and betrothal money (Pin Jin).