Planning an Engagement Party

## Planning Your Engagement Party An engagement party is the first celebration of your upcoming wedding. Here's how to throw one that sets the perfect tone. ### When to Have Your Engagement Party **Timing:** - Typically held within 2-3 months of getting engaged - Before you've set a wedding date is ideal - Avoid major holidays when guests may be busy - Weekend afternoons or early evenings work best ### Who Should Host? **Traditional Options:** - Parents of the bride - Parents of the groom - Both sets of parents together **Modern Options:** - The couple themselves - Close friends - Siblings - Anyone who offers and you're comfortable with ### Creating Your Guest List **The Golden Rule:** Only invite people who will also be invited to the wedding. It's hurtful to be included in engagement celebrations but excluded from the main event. **Size Considerations:** - Intimate gathering: 15-25 guests (close family and friends) - Medium party: 40-60 guests (extended family and friend groups) - Large celebration: 75+ guests (almost a pre-wedding party) ### Choosing a Venue **At Home:** - Intimate and personal - Cost-effective - Full control over catering and timing **Restaurant or Pub:** - No hosting stress - Private dining rooms available - Various price points **Outdoor Options:** - Garden party - Rooftop venue - Picnic in a park **Hired Venue:** - More space for larger gatherings - Professional service - Special ambiance ### Party Styles to Consider **Casual Brunch** - Relaxed morning or early afternoon - Champagne and breakfast foods - Perfect for mixed age groups **Cocktail Party** - Evening elegance - Passed appetizers and drinks - Sophisticated atmosphere **BBQ or Garden Party** - Laid-back outdoor fun - Family-friendly - Great for summer celebrations **Dinner Party** - Seated meal for intimate groups - Multiple courses - Lots of conversation time ### What to Include **Essential Elements:** - Welcome toast - Time for mingling - Photos of the couple - Good food and drinks **Optional Additions:** - Engagement story sharing - Photo display of the couple - Signature cocktail - Party favours ### Engagement Party Etiquette **Gifts:** - Not expected but often given - Small, personal items are appropriate - Some guests bring wine or flowers - Registry gifts are fine too **Speeches:** - Parents or hosts typically make a welcome toast - Keep speeches brief and warm - The couple should thank their hosts **Attire:** - Match the venue and time of day - Provide guidance on invitations - The couple should stand out (not in white, save that!) ### Your Engagement Party Timeline **6-8 Weeks Before:** - Decide on venue and date - Create guest list - Send invitations **2-4 Weeks Before:** - Finalise catering and drinks - Plan any decorations - Arrange photographer (optional) **Week Of:** - Confirm final numbers - Prepare any personal touches - Brief anyone making toasts ### Budget Tips - Host at home to save on venue costs - Serve brunch (often cheaper than dinner) - DIY decorations with a simple theme - Ask friends to bring a dish (potluck style) - Skip formal invitations for e-vites ### Final Thoughts Your engagement party should be joyful and stress-free. It's a celebration, not a formal event. Focus on gathering the people you love to share your happy news.

Planning an Engagement Party

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