First of all, congratulations are in order! It’ll be an exciting time for you and your fiance(e) in the coming months prior to the wedding! What now? The engagement party of course! Some simple guidelines for the engagement party follows.

Typically, this is a party given by the bride’s family. However, the engaged couple can certainly play host at their party. Actually, pretty much anyone can host this party, the groom’s family, other family members, friends. The engagement party should be held no later than 2 months after the question was popped. Any type of party can work. It can be an informal barbecue party at someone’s home or a fancy cocktail party and dinner in a private room at a swank restaurant. While it may be understood, it should always be said that both bride and groom must attend all engagement parties.

When it comes to invitations, the key here: Do NOT invite anyone who is not going to be invited to the wedding. That is incredibly crucial in wedding etiquette! The invitations themselves can be extended casually through a phone conversation or in a formally written invitation. If the engagement is meant as a surprise for guests, the party invitation can be worded as just a general party. Guests are not expected to bring gifts but if they do, you can accept and open it after the party. Be sure to send a thank-you note.

When it comes to toasts, the bride’s father or the future groom should announce the engagement. This is a great way to break the news if the engagement is a surprise. Following that toast, anyone else is welcome to give a toast to the happy couple.

If the party is hosted by someone other than the happy couple, be sure to thank the host with a note and flowers or some other appropriate gift soon after the event.

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