How to Plan an Engagement Party (Plus Free Printable Checklist)
Now that the thrilling and emotional proposal is out, planning your engagement party is time.
This event is a chance to gather loved ones and create beautiful memories before the wedding festivities begin. It is also a way to practice or develop some event planning skills. Like a wedding, this party requires choosing a date, finding a venue, creating a guest list, and more.
If you’re unsure what to do or where to start, we’ve prepared simple steps to plan an engagement party.
Determine Who’s Hosting
Traditionally, the bride’s parents host the engagement party. But these days, anyone can take on this role. The host can be the couple, their siblings, their BFF, or the groom’s family.
Choose a Date
Ideally, pick a date within the engagement’s first few months. But there’s no wrong with having the party immediately after their proposal, where excitement and other emotions are fresh.
Discuss the Budget
While throwing a grand party is tempting, be reasonable with your spending. The expenses often include the venue, decorations, food, beverages, invites, and vendor hire. After crunching those numbers, decide whether you can comfortably afford different things.
Set the Tone
Discuss with your partner or if other people will host the event, and share your vision of what atmosphere you expect. Then, decide on the final party theme or style, such as tropical, rustic, or Parisian.
Pick a Venue
A home or restaurant is a classic venue for an engagement party. But the venue ideas can be limitless. You can host the party in a park, backyard, beach, or rooftop. You may have a family member or friend with a beautiful place for such events.
Create a Guest List
Invite family members and close friends since an engagement party calls for an intimate celebration. A critical etiquette rule is to invite the people who attended the engagement party to the wedding. If someone else is throwing the celebration on your behalf, it’s thoughtful to consult with them before ordering the invites.
Send Out Engagement Party Invitations
Let your guests know the engagement party date as soon as possible, at least a month in advance. For a casual celebration, you can send guests with an online invitation. But for a more formal party, sending them a printed invitation will boost the tone.
You can craft personalized invitations reflecting the party’s theme. Include essential details like date, time, venue, and RSVP information. We have an exciting collection of RSVP Card Stationery. After choosing a design, customize them with your response options.
Decide on the Menu
Plan a menu that caters to everyone’s tastes and dietary preferences. Decide if you want a sit-down dinner, buffet, or a selection of appetizers and beverages. For the drinks, offer a selection of beverages that complement the theme or create signature cocktails.
You can choose from our Dinner Menu Card Stationery to ensure a creative and aesthetic menu presentation. Different designs are available to suit your party theme and other details.
Incorporate Entertainment and Activities
You can arrange a playlist or hire a DJ/band to set the mood and encourage dancing. Also, plan fun and interactive activities like photo booths, games, or a toast to engage the guests and make the party memorable.
Choose an Outfit
Opt for outfits that match the party’s setting. They should not only complement the vibe but also be comfortable. Be sure to inform the guests about the dress code in advance, like mentioning it on the invites.
You can use our Free Engagement Party Planning Checklist when planning a memorable engagement party. It includes a timeline guiding you through every step of planning. It also comes with additional tips.
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