Announcing Your New Engagement

What better way to officially announce your engagement than with a party? Engagement parties are not very common in my circle of friends. I've actually never attended one as a guest, but I secretly (or not so secretly...) would have liked one. My mom briefly talked about throwing one for us, but the timing wasn't right. While looking into engagement party tips, I found some info that was quite helpful for couples & their families. You can read the whole article here, but here is a brief snippet.

From The Knot, "Tradition has it that the bride's parents host the initial gathering, but the groom's parents can then throw their own party, or both sets can come together to host the fete. As you decide, here are five things the hosts should keep in mind:

1. Give the couple time to breathe
An impromptu family gathering the weekend after he proposed is the perfect opportunity to break out the vintage champagne, but don't schedule an all-out opulent affair during the engagement's first month.

2. Find out the size of the wedding that the couple has in mind
Everyone who is invited to the engagement party should ultimately be invited to the wedding.

3. Consider what will make the in-laws most comfortable
Since the engagement party custom was actually designed to help you start building bridges between the families, consider their style.

4. Suggest that the couple register beforehand
While traditionally guests have not brought presents to this function, increasing numbers do today, and it's only fair to provide guidance.

5. Remind yourself that there is still a wedding to throw
Every host wants to plan an unforgettable affair, but you never want to upstage the main event.

[editor's note - this was originally posted on April 7, 2008]

(image from The Knot)