Snapping Into Love
Love surprises us doesn’t it? One minute life is normal and the next it feels like your heart has found its missing piece. That moment when everything just clicks feels like “snapping into love.”
In Chinese culture there’s a symbol for this feeling: 囍, the Double Happiness symbol. It’s more than two characters—it’s a powerful symbol of love, joy and unity. Let me tell you why this beautiful chinese character is so important in Chinese culture especially when it comes to love, marriage and happiness.
The Story of the Double Happiness Chinese Character
There’s a lovely story about the history of where 囍 came from. A long time ago during the Tang Dynasty a young scholar was traveling to take an important exam. On his way he fell sick and was taken in by a kind family.
The family’s daughter nursed him back to health and as they spent time together the scholar fell deeply in love with her. But he had to leave to take his exam so he promised to return. After passing the exam instead of staying to celebrate his success he hurried back to her.
Their love was so pure that when they got married the scholar combined two characters for “happiness” (喜) into one symbol, 囍, to represent their joy and union. Since then this symbol has been a powerful symbol of love, marriage and happiness in Chinese culture.
Why Double Happiness Is Important
The Double Happiness symbol is everywhere during Chinese weddings, on the decorations. It’s hung on doors, printed on invitations and even used as part of the couple’s decorations.
But it’s more than just a pretty design. It’s a wish—a hope for lasting love, joy and a strong bond between two people.
The two 喜 characters represent two people coming together to share a life filled with happiness. It’s a reminder that love is about partnership, balance and creating joy together.
When Is Double Happiness Used?
The Double Happiness symbol is most used at weddings. But its meaning goes beyond just one day. Here are a few occasions where 囍 is used:
- Weddings: The symbol is a must-have at traditional Chinese weddings. It’s a blessing for the couple’s love and happiness.
- Anniversaries: It’s also a great way to celebrate years of love and togetherness.
- Valentine’s Day: 囍 is a lovely symbol for romance and connection, perfect for expressing your love.
- Home Decor: Many people hang this symbol in their homes to attract positive energy, harmony and good fortune.
- Gifts: Whether it’s for a couple or someone who loves love and happiness, 囍 is a meaningful gift.
Why I Love Creating Double Happiness
As a paper-cutting artist I’ve always felt a connection to the Double Happiness symbol. When I cut this design into paper, I think about the joy and love it represents, creating an image that captures these emotions.
Every piece I make is handmade. The intricate lines and curves of 囍 remind me of how love takes time and effort to create something beautiful.
I love to think of my work as part of someone’s story—perhaps it’s hung on the wall during a wedding or given to a couple starting their life together. It’s a small but tangible way to share love.
Snapping Into Love
I love the phrase “snapping into love”. It’s that moment when two hearts connect and everything makes sense.
The Double Happiness symbol, often on red paper, is that feeling. Its symmetry represents balance, harmony and how love brings two people together as equals.
A Modern Take on a Classic
Even though 囍 has been around for centuries it still feels modern. In a world that moves so fast this symbol reminds us to slow down and focus on what really matters: love and happiness. See the page on the history and meaning of Double Happiness for more info.
You don’t have to be married to love the Double Happiness symbol. It’s a universal reminder to celebrate the love in our lives—whether it’s with a partner, family or even self-love.
My Double Happiness Paper-Cutting
One of my favourites is my paper cutting of the Double Happiness symbol. Every piece I make is made with love and joy. It’s more than art—it’s a blessing for happiness, love and good fortune.
When you see this symbol I hope you think of the love in your life and all the happiness it brings.
Love and Happiness
Before Valentine’s Day and wedding season kicks off let’s pause and love and longevity. Whether it’s a new relationship, a long marriage or just the feeling of connection, the Double Happiness symbol reminds us love is to be loved.
So here’s to snapping into love—to finding that and building a life of happiness.