Wednesday, January 23, 2008

8th Aug 2008 - A good day?

The number '8' may be auspicious to the Chinese, but the triple-eight date of Aug 8, 2008 (or 08.08.08) does not seem too hot with couples getting married here this year.

That's because this date is during the Hungry Ghost Festival in the seventh month - Aug 1 to Aug 30 this year - of the Chinese calendar.

The belief that it is not a lucky time for weddings has brought a lull to businesses related to marriage. Some brides don't want to try on gowns or even step into the Bridal houses.

Several hotels contacted reported that they had some enquries, but few takers, for their wedding dinner packages.

This is despite throwing in freebies, such as room and menu upgrades or additional beer, on top of what is already in the hotels' wedding packages. Even couples who are not superstitious are avoiding Aug 8, 2008.

In comparison, the triple-seven date of July 7, 2007 was hot: There were 772 ceremonies performed at the Registry of Marriages on that day, compared to about 100 on a regular day.

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