Photo by Samia Liamani on Unsplash
The moment you’ve been waiting for is finally here—you’re engaged!
Congratulations are in order but first, take in the moment. Enjoy your now fiancé and the fact that no one knows this awesome news. When you’re ready to share the news, why not get creative with an engagement party?
This is one of the best ways to share the news, and these days, couples are taking over and planning their own engagement party.
Engagement Party Planning Tips
After you figure out which direction you want to head for your party, it’s time to start thinking of the venue, decor and guest list. If this is all new to you, keep reading for my engagement party planning tips.
Engagement Party Planning Tips and Etiquette
Purpose of an engagement party
The purpose of an engagement party is to celebrate the couple’s engagement, pure and simple, and to help family members to get to know each another before the wedding day.
Who do we invite?
Keep in mind that just as with a bridal shower, those invited to an should also be invited to the wedding. The absolute “have to invite” people include the immediate families of the couple, their close friends, and the wedding party members (if they have been selected already).
Are gifts required?
No they are not. Again, the purpose of an engagement party is to formally announce and celebrate the engagement, and allow family members of both sides to get to know each other. Some guests may wish to bring a gift, but it isn’t necessary.
Who hosts the engagement party?
Unlike a shower, gifts are not expected. Because of this, anyone can host, including the couple themselves, if they choose, or either set of parents.
What should guests be served?
It depends on the style of the party. If it’s a dinner party, then some sort of substantial meal is expected, although a party with just snacks and simple desserts, or a buffet with finger foods can be just as enjoyable (as long as the time of the event doesn’t fall during a typical dinner time).
Does the engagement party’s theme have to match the theme of the wedding?
Not at all. The host can choose any theme he/she wants, as long as it is reflective of the happy couple. Like the rehearsal dinner, it should not be grander than the wedding.
Just got engaged and wondering what to do first? Check out Your Engagement – The First Thing to Do When You Get Engaged for some helpful advice.
Looking for more tips and ideas before your wedding? Check out “How to Plan a Memorable Bachelorette Party Without Breaking the Bank.”
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
