Hongbao go fun and edgy!
Tue, Jan 20, 2009
By Joy Fang, my paper

THE red packet is getting a facelift. Instead of staid traditional designs, consumers can now easily find hongbao with quirky designs.

Ms Eileen Teo, owner of The Salad Shop, carries three different designs of hongbao by Hong Kong designer Carrie Chau at her Haji Lane store. The hongbao feature child-like illustrations inspired by fairy tales.

"Consumers are interested in the uniqueness of the graphic on the red packet," said Ms Teo.

Printing companies say they have seen the number of clients wanting less traditional designs increase by as much as 45 per cent, compared to last year.

Ms Carina Chuah, 27, an editor at a book publisher, is using hongbao with cute designs this year.

"The receiver will remember who it is from and it can be kept as a souvenir," she said.

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ANAMANIA

Get it at: IAHGames iCafe, 109 North Bridge Road, #B1-03B, Funan DigitaLife Mall (tel: 6337-8881).
How much: $2 or free with every purchase of GE 70K Gpoint Game Value Card at IAHGames iCafe

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QUIRKY FAIRY TALES

Get it at: The Salad Shop, 25/27 Haji Lane (tel: 6299-5805)
How much: $10.90 for a pack of 20

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LITTLE CHILDREN

Get it at: Any DBS/POSB branch
How much: Customers can request the red packets when they exchange for new notes at any branch. The hongbao are free but limited to one set of 10 pieces per customer

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SHINY DISCO BALL

Get it at: Exclusive to customers of Antalis (Singapore), a merchant in the paper industry. They were designed by Ms Joyce Mak, 22, a student of the SIM-RMIT Bachelor of Design (Communication Design), who won a hongbao-design competition.

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CARTOON COWS

Get it at: Order at Pin Press. Visit www.pinpress.com.sg/hongbao2009/ or call 6383-1801.
How much: $6 for two packs (each containing 10)

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