Red Packet Design for the Next Generation: What Gen Z Wants

Introduction

A custom red packet is more than just a festive envelope it’s a powerful canvas for brand storytelling. As Lunar New Year campaigns grow more competitive, brands are reimagining traditional red packets with bold designs, personalisation, and even interactive digital layers. Whether you’re targeting Gen Z, honoring cultural heritage, or driving brand recall, a well-designed custom red packet can help your brand stand out and spark meaningful engagement.

Why Custom Red Packets Matter in Modern Branding

In many Asian cultures, red packets (or ang pao) are given to convey blessings, luck, and prosperity. Traditionally a personal gesture, they’ve evolved into potent marketing tools for businesses during the Lunar New Year. A thoughtfully designed custom red packet bridges tradition and innovation, allowing brands to connect with their audience on a deeper emotional and cultural level.

For consumers, red packets are a tangible, meaningful gift. For brands, they are an opportunity to reinforce visual identity, drive brand visibility, and leave a lasting impression.

Key Elements of an Effective Custom Red Packet Design

Design trends: Minimalist illustrations, bold typography, embossed gold, and vibrant color palettes are dominating red packet design. Brands often incorporate auspicious symbols or storytelling elements that resonate with their heritage or vision.

Materials & finishes: High-GSM papers, foil stamping, and UV spot varnishes enhance the tactile experience a key component in elevating perceived value.

Personalization: Adding names, initials, or customized blessings makes each red packet feel exclusive. For brands, this small touch turns a standard promotional item into a memorable, shareable experience.

Adding a Digital Layer to Your Custom Red Packet

Today’s most memorable custom red packets don’t stop at print. With tools like HOVARLAY, brands can embed a digital layer into the red packet, transforming it into a living story.

Imagine scanning the packet with a smartphone and seeing:

• An animated 3D character greeting the user
• A mini-game that rewards loyalty points
• An immersive message from the brand founder

This not only surprises the recipient but also generates buzz on social media and unlocks real-time data on engagement.

Real-Life Example: HERA Bathroom x HOVARLAY

One of the most compelling smart red packet campaigns was the HERA Bathroom. Rather than a conventional red packet, the design became an entry point into a personalised augmented reality (AR) journey themed around the user’s Chinese zodiac sign.

When recipients scanned the red packet, a lively Feng Shui Master appeared on their screens an animated guide who revealed their zodiac forecast for the year based on their chosen animal. Alongside personalised predictions, they received uplifting affirmations and festive wishes, making the experience feel both fun and meaningful. This seamless blend of storytelling, tradition, and interactivity left recipients scanning again and sharing with friends.

Key Outcome Highlights:

• Thousands of interactions over the festive period

• An average engagement time of 1 minute 22 seconds per user

• Increased brand engagement and recall

How to Create a Custom Red Packet Campaign That Converts

Start by defining your campaign goal: brand awareness, engagement, or customer loyalty. Then build your creative around that.

Timeline: Begin the design process at least 3 months in advance. This gives time for creative approvals, printing, and digital integration.

Collaboration: Work with design consultants and tech partners like HOVARLAY to ensure your red packet is cohesive and technically sound. A great campaign marries aesthetics, storytelling, and function.

Stand Out with a Custom Red Packet + HOVARLAY

In a sea of red, your packet should shine. With HOVARLAY, your custom red packet becomes more than a giveaway it becomes a portal into your brand story. From avatar animations to data-rich insights, our tools help you transform tradition into a high-impact marketing moment.

Ready to create yours? Let’s turn your red packet into a campaign people remember and talk about.