How to Choose a Wedding Gift Envelope

“Goshūgi” is the custom of giving money as a wedding gift.
Goshūgi envelopes have various etiquette rules.
This page explains the types of mizuhiki cords and how to choose a goshūgi envelope.
It may look complicated at first glance, but it’s easier to remember when you understand the meanings and origins behind each element.

Choose a Knot: “Musubikiri” or “Awaji-Musubi”

Mizuhiki refers to the decorative cords on the front of the gift envelope.
For wedding congratulations, choose either “musubikiri” (tight knot) or “awaji-musubi.”

Both “musubikiri” and “awaji-musubi” are knots that, once tied, do not easily come undone.
Because they signify “only once,” they are used for celebrations that should not be repeated many times.
Since the knot tightens as you pull the ends, it also carries the meaning of “a long-lasting relationship.”

There are also “ring knots,” “pine knots,” and decorative knots shaped like cranes.
These may also be used for wedding gifts.

On the other hand, the “bow knot” is used for occasions that are happily repeated (such as baby gifts or school entrance celebrations), and it also appears on noshi paper for mid-year and year-end gifts.
Casual goshūgi envelopes come with many different mizuhiki styles, which can be confusing,
but as a rule of thumb, remember to “choose a knot that doesn’t easily come undone.”

Mizuhiki Colors: “Gold & Silver” or “Red & White”

For wedding gifts, choose mizuhiki in “gold & silver” or “red & white.”
“Black & white” and “yellow & white” mizuhiki are used for condolence occasions.

Choose One with a “Noshi”

“Noshi” is the small ornament at the upper right of the envelope.
It originally referred to a thinly stretched slice of abalone.
Because abalone was once a lucky offering to the gods, a noshi was attached to celebratory gifts; over time this was simplified into today’s paper ornament.
For wedding gifts, choose a goshūgi envelope with a noshi.
Note that noshi is not used for condolences.

Match the Envelope’s Formality to the Amount

Using a very ornate envelope for a small monetary amount can be considered impolite.
Choose an envelope appropriate to the amount you’re giving.
Many store-bought envelopes list a price guideline on the package—use that as a reference.

Match the Envelope to Your Relationship and the Wedding’s Formality

For a close friend, a casual design is fine.
You’ll also find colorful mizuhiki designs that include pink and other colors in addition to gold/silver or red/white.
However, for a superior at work or a highly formal reception, choose an appropriately formal envelope.

Summary

We’ve introduced how to choose a goshūgi envelope.
There are many etiquette points you shouldn’t overlook for celebrations, but many are rooted in old customs—once you know the reasons, it’s easier to apply them.
Please keep the above points in mind when choosing an envelope.
Shoyu Online carries many celebratory noshi envelopes (goshūgi envelopes) made with select washi paper.

See “Celebratory Noshi Envelopes” here >>