Your engagement party theme search is over! We’ve compiled the most amazing engagement party ideas to raise excitement for your big day sky-high.
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Engagement Party Delights
An engagement party is a brilliant way to kick off the “we’re getting married” celebrations and mark your exciting news. It’s a chance to gather your friends and family, catch up with loved ones, and show off your engagement ring. According to wedding planner and owner of Love Made Me Weddings, Annie Hall, “It’s a celebration of your love and a good chance to socialize with your favorite people all in one room, which is a rare occasion!”
“An engagement party is a perfect opportunity to introduce guests who will be together on the wedding day. It means more energy on the dancefloor at your wedding as the ice will already be broken. It’s also a nice way to celebrate with anyone who can’t make the wedding.”
If you’ve never been to an engagement party before, remember that you’re not throwing a mini-wedding, so don’t get overly stressed about it. Hosting an engagement party is optional. If you feel like you’ll enjoy hosting one, you’ll find lots of easy and inexpensive ideas below.
How to Plan an Engagement Party: Nine Top Tips
1. Pick a Host
Traditionally, the bride’s family hosts the engagement party, but there’s no set rule. Often, the couple will throw the party together with their parents. Address this early on to set the budget for your theme.
2. Set a Date
An engagement party is typically held in the first few months after the proposal. This gives guests enough notice and maintains excitement.
3. Create a Guest List
People will assume they’re invited to your wedding if they’re invited to the engagement celebrations. Start with a preliminary guest list for your wedding. If you’re planning an intimate family wedding, invite all the guests you want to the party and clarify that the wedding will be smaller.
4. Choose a Venue
Your venue depends on guest numbers and the desired atmosphere. For a formal party, hire a private room in a favorite restaurant. For something informal, book tables at a cocktail bar or pub. For budget-friendly options, consider a picnic in a local park or a barbecue in your garden.
5. Plan the Theme
Stick with an easy and non-restrictive theme. If you know your wedding theme, consider hosting an engagement party that contrasts with those plans. For example, if you’re having a countryside wedding, have the engagement party in the city.
6. Decide on the Details and Entertainment
Consider what decorations and entertainment you’ll need. Provide food to soak up the drinks, whether homemade, catered, or a themed cake. For entertainment, consider light-hearted garden games for a laid-back celebration or a DJ for a large-scale evening party.
7. Send Out Invites
Send invites as soon as you decide on the party date. Paper invitations are beautiful, but e-vites are also a good option. You could also throw a secret engagement party and surprise your guests.
8. Find Yourself an Outfit
Your attire should match the theme and setting of the party. Lots of brides choose to wear white for the engagement party, while grooms-to-be might choose a suit or relaxed shirt and trousers. Dress in what feels right for the party.
9. Capture Memories
Document the occasion with photos. You don’t need a professional photographer; a DIY photo booth with a backdrop and fun props can work well.
Engagement Party Ideas and Themes
When it comes to engagement party ideas, you don’t have to spend a fortune to make a big impact. Here are some of our favorite themes and decorations:
1. Wine and Cheese Night
Pair wine and cheese for an elegant night. Host at a local wine bar or at home. Serve charcuterie boards, baked brie, and more. Personalize wine glasses and cheese markers for a special touch.
2. Travel Theme
Celebrate your love of travel with a theme inspired by your adventures. Have a globe for guests to sign, offer signature cocktails, and decorate with map confetti.
3. Summer Barbecue Garden Party
Transform your garden into a barbecue haven. Set up seating areas with cushions and lanterns, have a “pimp your drink” station, and provide outdoor games.
4. Great Gatsby/Roaring ’20s Theme
Add vintage glamour with a Great Gatsby theme. Send Art Deco-style invites, decorate with gold and black balloons, and hire a dance teacher for a group Charleston.
5. Picnic in the Park
Head to a local park with blankets, sandwiches, and jugs of Pimm’s. Hang streamers from trees, prepare picnic baskets, and organize outdoor games.
6. All That Glitters Theme
Celebrate your new bling with a diamond theme. Have everyone dress in black tie, set up a Polaroid station, and serve drinks with prosecco shimmer.
7. Floral Theme
Throw a floral-themed soirée with beautiful blooms. Spell out your initials with floral letters, wear floral headbands, and freeze flowers in ice cubes.
8. Christmas/Winter Wonderland Theme
Celebrate with a winter wonderland theme. Decorate with fairy lights, pine cones, and snowflakes. Serve mulled wine, have a hot chocolate bar, and organize fun party games.
Engagement Party Etiquette and FAQs
Who should be invited to an engagement party?
Invite close friends and family. If you’re having a smaller wedding, use the party to celebrate with a larger group.
When should the engagement party be held?
Typically within the first few months after the proposal.
Do you need a gift registry for an engagement party?
Gifts are not expected, but you can create a small registry if guests ask for suggestions.
Should you have a theme for the engagement party?
A theme can make planning easier and create a cohesive look, but it’s not required.