Engagement Party

Hi - its not such a things as it used to be but I think its just people jumping on any excuse for a party - who doesn't love a party - right. But you are much better off saving for your wedding and settling into your house.

I never wanted a party and neither did my now husband! If people are very excited for you all and you both want too ask them to meet you at your local pub! Put your money to better use!

If you're just scraping by financially, then it makes no sense at all to put money towards an engagement party when you already have a wedding to save up for!

If you want to do something to celebrate, look at doing it low-cost. Either have a bring & share - at your own home or hire a local village/church/community hall or book a restaurant on the understanding that everyone who comes pays for their own meal. Most people I know who have done engagement parties have done something like this, and it's been fine.

CONGRATULATIONS
Me and Fiance have been together for 11 years. Have you thought about a date yet? Spend within your means don't over board. Do what you both want to DO. Remember its your & fiancé's big day Don't fall into pressure from family. Plan out what you want from your day. Please also budget as well we went way over our budget:/ we underestimated. Best of luck x

Hiya, congratulations! We are having an engagement party! However if we was struggling financially we wouldn’t be doing one x

I believe, once upon a time, an engagement gift was purchased for 'your bottom drawer' and this was the start of engagement events. Now, parties seem to be way overblown and Instagram and Pinterest have a lot to answer for!
Do what feels right. My partner and I have been together 15 years and our wedding is 4 months away. In the summer, we had a small BBQ purely for the wedding party - parents, Best man, bridesmaids etc. It was an opportunity for the most important people to get to know each other but without breaking the wedding budget! It was a really lovely, relaxed day.

Are you planning or attending an engagement party? If so, here’s a quick rundown based on what you might need:

1. Hosting an Engagement Party

• Purpose: It celebrates a couple's commitment and is often the first official announcement of their engagement to family and friends.
• Venue Ideas: Can range from home gatherings, restaurants, gardens, or event halls.
• Theme: Decide if you want a casual, formal, or themed event (e.g., rustic, elegant, or a destination vibe).
• Guest List: Usually close friends and family. The party is more intimate than the wedding itself.

2. Attending an Engagement Party

• Gift Etiquette: A small gift is usually appreciated, like a bottle of wine, a gift card, or something meaningful for the couple. It's not required but thoughtful.
• Dress Code: Follow the theme or venue vibe. Semi-formal is usually a safe bet unless specified otherwise.

3. Games or Activities

• Engagement parties often have icebreaker activities or games like:
  • Trivia about the couple.
  • "Who Knows the Couple Best?" quiz.
  • DIY photo booths.

Let me know if you're looking for planning tips, gift ideas, or outfit suggestions!

Me & my future husband got engaged recently and if we were struggling financially we wouldn't have an engagement party. To be honest I am not sure an engagement party is necessary unless you both want to have one but naturally this is your choice. You both know what you want and what your priorities are so unless this is something you both really want to do rather than feel the pressure to do this I would advise against it.

Congratulations on your engagement! An engagement party isn’t a necessity. You can celebrate with close friends and family at home or in a casual setting. If saving for the wedding is your priority, it’s perfectly fine to skip it. What matters most is your love and having loved ones by your side!

Hiya, we decided to have an engagement party as don’t plan on getting married for a couple of years whilst saving. We’ve just hired a “loft bar” local to us for £150 for the night and aren’t providing food. If it’s something you want to do it definitely doesn’t have to be expensive! Don’t feel pressured to though! Xx

An engagement party is a celebratory event held to mark the beginning of a couple's journey toward marriage. It's typically hosted by the couple themselves, their families, or close friends, and it provides an opportunity for loved ones to gather and congratulate the couple on their engagement.

Here are some key aspects to consider for planning an engagement party:

1. Guest List

• The guest list usually includes close family, friends, and possibly colleagues. It's an intimate affair to celebrate with those who are most important in the couple's lives【21†source】.

2. Theme and Setting

• While engagement parties can be casual, many opt for a formal or themed event depending on personal preferences. Some choose a dinner or cocktail reception, while others may host it outdoors or in a more relaxed setting【22†source】.

3. Food and Drink

• The menu often includes light hors d'oeuvres or a full meal, depending on the time of day and style of party. Champagne or wine is frequently served as a toast to the couple【21†source】.

4. Gifts

• While gifts are not obligatory at engagement parties, some couples may have a registry for those who wish to bring a gift. It’s typically a chance to celebrate the couple without the pressure of a wedding gift【22†source】.

5. Games and Activities

• Fun activities like couple trivia, a memory jar where guests write notes for the couple, or even a dance party can be included to create an engaging atmosphere【21†source】.

In planning the engagement party, the focus should be on celebrating the love and commitment between the couple in a way that feels meaningful to them.