Party Planning Guide: The 5 W's of Engagement Parties

When announcing your engagement, it is certainly more fun to do so surrounded by family and friends rather than over the phone or by text. Throwing an engagement party is a way to officially start the wedding festivities. An engagement party can be as informal or formal as you’d like it. But hosting an engagement party isn’t a requirement. It’s up to the engaged couple as to whether or not they would like to have a party.

Why: The reason for an engagement party is to announce your engagement and allow family and friends to join in the excitement. It’s also a way to let your wedding party, parents and others who will be a part of your big day get to know each other.

Who Hosts: Traditionally, the bride’s parents host the first official wedding party. The groom’s parents are welcome to throw their own party after. Friends of the engaged couple have also thrown engagement parties. But nowadays, more and more couples are throwing their own engagement parties. Keep in mind that whoever hosts the party pays for the party.

When: The engagement party is usually thrown about 9 to 11 months before the wedding, so usually a couple of months after he pops the question. You should send out invitations to the engagement party about a month before the date.

Where: The party can be just about anywhere! You can hold it at home, a restaurant, country club, etc. If guests will have to travel to attend your wedding, you may want to consider hosting the engagement party at a location that guests won’t have to travel far to reach.

Whom to Invite: Tradition has it that you aren’t supposed to invite anyone you weren’t inviting to the wedding. However, traditions change. Today because so many couples have their wedding far from family and friends, that rule can bend a little – if someone (other than your parents) is hosting it for you. If you or your parents are hosting then the old rule sticks. If you are unsure of your guest list when planning the engagement party, just stick to your closest friends and family to avoid hurting someone’s feelings when wedding invitations are mailed out.

Real Delaware County, PA Couples: Andrew John Thomas recently popped the question to Brianna Cutter. She said “Yes”! Photos Credit: Memory Keeper Photography