A gift of money is prepared when you are invited to a wedding.
Since it is a gift that you give with all your heart, it is important to pay attention to etiquette and consideration. In this article, we will carefully introduce the basics of gift envelopes, from how to choose one, how to put the bills inside, how to write the name on the envelope, and how to wrap it.
How to choose a gift envelope
A gift envelope is an important item that expresses celebratory feelings.
Choose the one that's right for you based on the amount and the relationship.
◆ Pay attention to the color and knotting method of Mizuhiki
Gift envelopes have a decorative string called "mizuhiki" attached to them.
For weddings, choose either red and white or gold and silver Mizuhiki. The basic knotting methods are "Musubikiri" and "Awaji Musubi." Both have the meaning of "a one-time celebration" and are considered appropriate for wedding celebrations.
◆ A design that matches your budget
If the envelope is too expensive or too cheap for the amount of the gift, it will give a slightly disjointed impression.
As a guideline:
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Around 10,000 yen: Something with a simple design
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Around 30,000 yen: Something a little flashy (e.g., with embroidery or gold leaf)
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Over 50,000 yen: Prestigious, luxurious items (boxed items or items with lots of decorations)
◆ The relationship with the recipient is also important
If you are giving a gift to a friend, a casual design is OK, but if you are giving a gift to your boss or relative, it is best to stick to subdued colors and formality.
[How to write a gift envelope]
There are also manners to follow when writing the front of a gift envelope (the text written on the front).
◆ The top line of the inscription: "Congratulations" or "Congratulations"
Common words used at weddings include "Ju", "Congratulations on your marriage", and "Congratulations".
If you are unsure, it is safe to write "kotobuki." Use a brush or a brush pen and write it thick and carefully.
◆ The bottom line of the inscription: Full name
The giver's name should be written in full underneath the Mizuhiki.
When giving as a married couple, the standard format is to put the husband's name in the center and the wife's name in the bottom left. If giving as a joint gift, the names should be arranged from right to left in order of rank and age. If there are multiple senders, use a message that expresses the relationship, such as "everyone from XX"
Write the name of one representative, write "everyone else" to the left of it, and then place a piece of paper with everyone's names on it inside.
[How to write on the inner bag]
Write the amount on the front of the inner envelope, and your address and name on the back.
◆ Enter the amount
If there is a space on the inner envelope to write the amount, you should write it using old characters, such as "kin sanman yen."
Here's how to write the numbers:
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One → One
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Two → Two
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3 → 3
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10,000 → 10,000
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Yen → Circle
For example, "30,000 yen."
[How to put a gift]
You put bills in the inner envelope, but there are some small etiquette things to keep in mind.
◆ Prepare new banknotes
It is considered good manners to use new, uncreased bills for wedding gifts, so be sure to have them ready in advance at your bank or similar institution.
◆ Pay attention to the orientation of the bills
The key point is that the bill is oriented so that the "portrait" is visible when the inner envelope is opened.
When placing bills in the inner envelope, make sure that the portrait (face) of the bill is facing the front of the envelope and is at the top. When sealing the envelope, it is fine to simply fold it lightly rather than gluing it. 
◆ If there is no inner bag
If you don't have an inner bag, you can use Japanese writing paper or copy paper.
<How to fold>
◆ Timing of wrapping
Prepare the gift envelope the day before and bring it with you on the day wrapped in a convenient to carry "Fukusa (Japanese paper wrapper)". When you check in at the venue, take the gift envelope out of the fukusa and hand it over carefully.
If you put it in a bag as is, the edge of the bag may fold and the mizuhiki or noshi may fall apart, so it is best to use it if possible. If you don't have one, you can use a clean handkerchief instead.
Finally
A wedding is an irreplaceable and important day for a couple. It is most important that the gift you give on such a day is one that is full of feeling. If you give it with warmth and consideration for etiquette, your partner will surely be pleased.
I hope you have a wonderful celebration.
