Tis the season of love…red paper wrapped presents, champagne toasts and sparkly new rings. It’s engagement season, and we couldn’t be more excited!
So you've gotten engaged and sent out your announcements. Now what?? Another fun first step? Your engagement party! So ladies, feel free to pass this along to anyone you need to – we’ll cover everything you (or your parents or future in-laws) need to know. ;-)
What is an “engagement party” exactly?
It’s the very first opportunity you have to officially announce your engagement (and to show off that ring and the cute guy who put it on your finger!). It’s a chance for members of both sides of the family to get to know each other, and for all to congratulate the two of you in a fun, festive setting.
Who hosts?
Traditionally, the parents of the bride-to-be have hosted, but it’s just as common these days to see both sets of parents hosting together, or even close friends or relatives of the bride or the groom taking the reigns. Just remember that whomever hosts will find themselves with the bill in their hands in the end.
Where should it be held?
Anywhere you like! Consider any special family ties or traditions. Is there a special restaurant or park your families would enjoy? Often the party is held at hosts’ own homes too.
When should we have it?
When the news is still brand new – one to three months post-proposal – is perfect! Just be sure to set a date that works for VIP guests like parents, close friends and relatives (and the two of you, of course!).
Who do we invite?
Etiquette suggests that guests invited to the engagement party should also be invited to the wedding, so keep that in mind when building your guest list for this first celebration. However, this list will likely be shorter, as engagement parties are designed to be a bit more intimate than the wedding itself. Friends and family of the host should be invited, as well as close family and friends of both families and the two of you.
Should people bring gifts?
Some may bring small celebratory presents, but that shouldn’t be expected, so you’ll want to graciously accept any gifts and set them aside to be opened after the party (don’t forget to send thank-you notes!). Even as early as the engagement party, some may ask where you’re registered, so it’s not a bad idea to go ahead and get started with a small registry and let your host know so they may pass it along if anyone asks.
Should there be toasts?
Absolutely! At a comfortable time during the party, the parents of both the bride- and groom-to-be may stand to extend their congratulations. This is also a perfect time for the bride and groom to thank guests for joining them to celebrate, and offer a special thank you to the host(s).
And with true Southern charm…
Don’t forget to send a small, thoughtful gift to the host after the party. Something sweet and meaningful: A framed photo from the party, a nice bottle of wine, or a pretty book on entertaining with a thoughtful note from the two of you written on the inside cover. And take time to enjoy every.single.second. You’re just getting started, and there’s so much fun to come!
Happy Almost Valentines Day!!
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