The Engagement Party
Now that you're engaged, you'll want to share the exciting news with close friends and relatives. Why not surprise them all at once by announcing the wonderful news at an engagement party? Here are some engagement party tips from Beverly Clark's book, Planning a Wedding to Remember.
An engagement party is traditionally hosted by the bride's parents. However, the party may be hosted by you and your fiance. Other engagement parties are sometimes hosted by the groom's parents, relatives or close friends. It's a perfect opportunity to introduce the two families and friends of the couple.
The engagement announcement is generally made during a toast given by the bride's father or her fiance. A toast is the perfect way to officially fill the guests in on the exciting news, especially when the news may be a surprise to them. The groom's father or other friends may want to join in on the fun and toast the happy couple.
- It is a must that you both attend all engagement parties.
- Gifts are generally not given, and should not be expected.
- If a guest chooses to honor the occasion with a gift, accept it graciously and send a thank you note.
- The party may be a luncheon, brunch, dinner or cocktail party. Any type of party would be appropriate.
- Avoid hurt feelings by inviting only those guests who you will also be inviting to your wedding.
- Invitations may be extended over the phone or by written invitation, depending on the time and formality of the party.
- If formal invitations are sent, and it's not to be a surprise for the guests, then the invitation could read "In honor of Susan Petty and James Townsend," or "Please join us in celebrating the engagement of ..."
- If the engagement announcement is to be a surprise for the guests, then the invitation should be a general party invitation, not mentioning the couple's names.
- Thank the hosts of your engagement party with a note and a small gift, flowers or a dinner invitation.
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