The ring has been bought, the exciting news has been announced, now let the celebrations begin…
Planning an engagement party isn’t always easy. Who to invite? Family, extended family, best friends, work friends, no friends just family? The list can slowly expand and before you know it, you have a mini version of your wedding guest list to contend with!
Although it’s an important celebration and something you want to share with your nearest and dearest, you shouldn’t feel you have to invite distant relatives, long lost friends and anyone that doesn’t form part of your immediate “close circle” of family and friends. An engagement party is generally a much closer and more intimate event. Distant relatives and work friends might expect an invite to your wedding, but won’t necessarily expect to be part of your engagement celebrations. Ultimately it’s down to you both as to who you want there, who will want to share that special moment with you and who you can afford to have attend.
Right, the list is done, now with the venue. At home, at your parents’ house, in a bar, maybe a formal sit down dinner? The list is endless!!
I always think the season and time of year is always a good judge and decider as to what type of party to have and where to celebrate it. We celebrated our engagement in the summery month of July (and thankfully it was sunny that day!) as we decided to have a garden party for our closest family and friends. With the sun shining down on our lovely garden, my parents’ excellent catering skills, an amazing chocolate cake and 50 people who we love dearly (I have a huge family), we couldn’t have asked for a better day, it was just perfect.
If you’re thinking of celebrating in winter; how about fireworks in your garden? Or mulled wine and mince pies around the Christmas tree? If your parents or your in-laws have a bigger house, maybe they’ll be happy to play hosts.
For those of you wanting to venture out and about, a large sharing table in a restaurant with lots of tapas is a great way to get the two families mingling or how about a private area in a rooftop cocktail bar? What better way to celebrate than with a cocktail watching the sun set across the skyline. Want something a little different? Then how about an afternoon tea party or a Sunday brunch gathering with Bloody Marys and Bucks Fizz? Engagement parties don’t necessarily have to be an evening affair!
It all depends on your budget, the time of year and your personal preferences as to whether you want to keep it informal and casual or want something more formal and swanky. Ultimately it has to be your decision; with the people you love the most sharing the start of your new life journey.
Happy planning!
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