Congratulations! The proposal was a success and you now have a handsome fiancé (and a beautiful ring!) to show off. You know what that means...it’s time to throw an engagement party! Unsure of how to put together the perfect celebration? You have questions, and we have answers.
Who Hosts It?
Traditionally, the bride’s parents host as a way to formally announce the engagement and introduce the groom to family. A modern twist is for both sets of parents to cohost an event together. Anyone can host and hey, why not throw multiple parties? The majority of the party details and costs will be sorted out by whomever is hosting. These days, the norm is that the couple themselves throws an engagement party, with the help of family and friends.
When Should it Be?
Protocol is to host a celebration within three months after engagement, but of course, you can adjust to fit your needs.
- Note: Brides should have registry set up one-month prior to party, as guests may want to bring gifts.
Who to Invite?
Per wedding etiquette, only people who you plan to invite to the wedding should be invited to the official engagement party, especially if hosted by bride's parents.
- For less formal gatherings, the invitation list can include more friends and co-workers.
How to Celebrate?
Throw the rules out the window, baby – celebrate your way! Engagement parties can be as formal or informal as the hosts decide. Ideas include cocktail parties, brunch, sit-down dinners at a favorite restaurant, afternoon open house, etc. Venue and type of celebration often depends on time of year (i.e. winter) or location of host (i.e. house vs. apartment).
- Consider out-of-the-box engagement party ideas such as wine tastings, clambakes, a backyard luau or midnight bowling. Choose affordable party supplies that fit your personality and have fun with it!
What Type of Invitations to Send?
Depending on type of party, paper, electronic or social media invites could be appropriate. DIY invites are also a fun option.
- Note: Leave registry details off the invitations. Guests will ask if they are interested in buying from your registry. This information will be shared later on shower invitations and wedding websites.
Do You Need Engagement Party Favors?
Small tokens of thanks are a special way to include guests in your celebration. Personalized gifts, bags of candy (or a candy buffet), etc., make your engagement event memorable. These wedding ring shot glasses are also a popular favor for guests!
You can also incorporate engagement party games and prizes throughout the event. From ice-breakers like couple's trivia pursuit and wedding bingo, to the newlywed game, engagement party activities encourage guests to get to know each other. For couples whose friends and families are coming together for the first time, this is a wonderful opportunity for them to become friends before the wedding.
Twelve months to go - we're just getting started! Be sure to check out tips on paying for your wedding day, saving money and hiring a wedding planner. We'll tell you everything you need to know about wedding dress shopping and setting up a successful registry.
Follow our Month-by-Month Wedding Planning Guide for more tips for every phase of your planning process. Feeling crafty? We’ve handpicked our favorite DIY wedding projects too!
Article written by: Melissa Collier
