CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR ENGAGEMENT!
It's such an exciting journey.
How will you announce this momentous occasion?
Will you send out announcements, E-Vites, Social Media or
an Engagement Party?
For close friends and family, Social Media is a great vehicle to reach many in a short amount of time, especially when you just CANT WAIT to share the great news..You may also consider creating YOUR WEDDING WEBSITE". It's a great way to keep everyone up to date on your wedding plans.You may even consider a party.
WHY HAVE AN ENGAGEMENT PARTY?
Having a party is a wonderful way to bring your 2 families together in a celebratory atmosphere to get to know each other.
Introduce your Bridal Party. You may have chosen friends and family members that don't each other.
It's an announcement and a GREAT reason to CELEBRATE!
WHO HOSTS THE PARTY?
Traditionally, it is the Bride's parents. In some cases the Groom's parents may want host a party in addition to the Bride's parents, for their extended family and friends,
Today, many couples are hosting their own parties.
WHEN SHOULD THE ANNOUNCEMENT PARTY BE HELD?
Generally, within 2-3 months of the engagement.
Don't forget to send out invitations out one month prior to the party.
(www.Weddingpaperdivas.com)
WHO TO INVITE?
If you are hosting a small, intimate cocktail party or dinner at home or a restaurant, invite parents, close Family Friends, your Bridal Party.
If you going all out and having a large affair, inviting your parents friends, extended family , coworkers are invited in addition to those you would invite to a small party.
Keep the number of people on each side equal, unless the Brides Family and the Groom's Family are each holding parties.
Not everyone at your engagement party needs to be invited to the wedding.Get the word out that you will be having a small wedding. (You WILL be asked a lot of questions about your wedding details!!) It's not necessary to divulge everything, you may not even know what you plans are! This is a time for your parents to brag and for you and your Fiance to enjoy the Celebration.
TYPE OF ENGAGEMENT PARTY
You can have anything you want, just don't upstage your wedding.
What would you enjoy? What's your style?
Depending on the time of the year, you could have a backyard BBQ.
A Brunch is also a wonderful idea, most people enjoy brunch, either at home or a restaurant. Who wouldn't enjoy a wine , Beer or Rum tasting party?
You may enjoy a more formal cocktail party or a full sit down dinner. Consider decorating in your wedding color scheme or give a litte peak at your wedding theme.
If one or both of the families have a strong ethnic or cultural background, consider serving some of their foods at your celebration.
ENGAGEMENT PARTY ETIQUETTE
You may want to register for some SMALL GIFTS before your engagement party, even if you don't want gifts. Someone will always bring something. Wait until after the party to open gifts.
You do not have to have favors, they are not usually expected, except in some cultures. It is a nice gesture and memory of such a special event. Pretty boxes of homemade treats are a favorite favor. Have printed ribbons made with your names and date to make it extra special.
JUST FOR THE FUN OF IT!!!!
HOW WELL DO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS KNOW YOU?