Photo: Sprinkles Cupcakes
You’ve got the guy, and now you’ve got the ring. And if you’re like most brides to be, you’ll want to share the big news with all of your friends and family members. There’s no better way to let everyone celebrate your impending nuptials than to throw an engagement party. Although there are many different types of engagement parties you can have, there are five basic rules to follow to ensure that yours will go off without a hitch.
1. Send out the right engagement party invitations. The invitation is the first taste your guests will get of the whole wedding event. If you are planning a casual party, use casual invitations. If your celebration will be a formal event, pick your invitations accordingly and be sure that you request formal attire. Don’t leave anything up to chance when sending out the engagement party invitations. Have all of the details spelled out clearly, and be sure to set a definite end time so that there will be no late night stragglers.
Photo: Invitation from Minted.com
2. Whether your engagement party is in your back yard, or at the Ritz, it is still an event to be remembered. Decorate your venue in the style of your celebration. If you are planning a barbeque pool party, be sure your engagement party favors are fun and festive. If you are choosing an adults only sit down dinner, than pick out some distinguished engagement party favors that convey the formality of your affair. No matter what your style, etiquette dictates that you, as the hostess, should return the gift of your guests’ presence with the perfect engagement party favor.
3. Pick your guests carefully. Engagement party guest lists can be tricky. Only invite people to the engagement party if they will be invited to the wedding too. Be sure not to leave anyone out either. Even the littlest oversight on your part could cause big ripples on your big day. The last thing the bride wants to plan for is how to diffuse family squabbles on her wedding day. Start off on the right foot by inviting all of the family members to your engagement party.
4. You’re throwing the party, so you should give the gifts. Never ask your friends to bring gifts to your engagement party, although many probably will. Consider writing something such as “Your presence at our engagement party is the only gift we desire,” or similar words on the invitation, that will let your guests know that they are not required to bring goodies. If they do, place the gifts in a separate room and open away from the party. This will eliminate awkward feelings for those who do not bring gifts.
5. Even though it may be months away, you will have people asking you thedetails of your big day. Unless you want a lot of unsolicited opinions, it may be a good idea to keep the details of the wedding separate from the engagement party festivities. Most brides and grooms will not know the exact date or location of their wedding yet. However, many people will offer their little tips or ideas. Thank them for their input, but don’t divulge any details. The focus of the celebration should be the engagement. There will be plenty of time to evaluate everyone’s ideas for your ultimate celebration.
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