An engagement is an occasion worth celebrating. Having an engagement party is the perfect way for couples to enjoy a stress-free time with family and friends before they start their wedding planning. 

Engagement parties are typically hosted by the parents or a close relative of the bride or groom. However, some engaged couples choose to throw the party themselves, which gives them the freedom to invite as many people as they want and have the type of event they envision for themselves. 

When to have the party 
Engagement parties should be held sometime during the first three months of an engagement. It is important to celebrate the engagement as soon as possible even if the couple has decided to hold off on planning the wedding for a year or two. 

Guest List 
Many couples want their engagement parties to be intimate affairs for close friends and family. While couples are not expected to invite every extended family member or college friend to their engagement parties, they should only invite those they plan on inviting to the wedding. 

Invitations 
There are a number of invitation styles to fit any budget and style. Online invites are perfect for those who are tech savvy or too busy to create handmade invitations. They’re faster and easier to send out and save hostesses from paying postage costs. 

For those looking to send their guests more personal invites, homemade invitations are a great option as they can be as fancy or simple as the couple desires. 

Visit a local craft store to stock up on supplies, such as cardstock, scrapbooking materials, pretty stationary, ribbon and calligraphy pens. There are a number of templates and guides on the web to help those making their own invitations. Plan ahead to ensure there is enough time to make invitations. They should be sent out about a month before the party to allow guests plenty of time to R.S.V.P. 

Where to have the party 
Engagement parties can be held at home, one of the couple’s favorite places or even outside. Having an engagement party at home offers the couple a chance to have a unique party with homemade décor and a relaxed vibe. Having the party at a restaurant or other locale with staff means less clean up for the hosts, but it could be more costly. 

Outdoor barbecues are a popular choice for couples having engagement parties during the warmer months. Decorate the backyard with paper lanterns and tree lights and dress up the table with candles and flower centerpieces to create an elegant, relaxed vibe. 

Make the party your own 
For couples looking to have a themed party, there are plenty to choose from. Use the engagement party as a chance to have a fun, creative them you may be hesitant to use on your wedding day. Themes can be as simple or detailed as you want. 

What to serve 
There are plenty meal and hors d’oeuvre options. Buffet and family-style dinners are easy and allow hosts to serve a variety of food. 

Cook on the grill for an outdoor barbecue and make fancier appetizers. Having an indoor party? Make pasta, meatballs and lasagna or serve a variety of sandwiches. 

Catering or having the party at a restaurant is an option for those who want to stay out of the kitchen and spend more time with guests. 

By: Lauren Finnegan