How to Host Your Fabulous Engagement Party
Congratulations! You’re engaged! The best way to kick off the celebrating is to host an engagement party! But where to begin? You already have a lot on your plate starting to plan the wedding. Considering to host an engagement party too can feel like a lot to consider. Therefore, keep it simple – but fun! Follow these simple steps to make hosting your engagement party a cinch.
1. Choose Your Style
Consider your personalities and preferences. Whether it’s a casual backyard barbecue or an elegant cocktail affair, align the theme with your envisioned wedding style.
2. Choose the Perfect Location
Just as you will soon find out when starting to plan your wedding, choosing the location for your party is key. My favorite is finding a free location. A large backyard is not a bad idea. If you don’t have access to a lovely backyard, my second favorite location is choosing a meeting up location at your favorite restaurant. If you choose to host the event at a restaurant or venue, you can make things more formal by reserving a private space. You can also keep it super casual and just let your friends and family know you will be meeting up a your favorite watering hole at a specific date and time. How formal you want to make the occasion is completely up to you.
3. Define the Invite List
While it is tempting to invite your entire contact list in your phone, it is important to think through your guest count before sending the invite. Most of the guests you invite to your engagement party, will expect a wedding invitation. Therefore, if that is not necessarily in the cards for you due to budget or wedding venue constraints, it is important to make sure the engagement party guests understand this up front. One way to manage this social faux pas is to mention you are planning an intimate wedding and will host something more casual and inclusive after the formal event.
4. Determine the Style of the Event
The great thing about engagement parties is they can be whatever you want them to be. You can host a simple mix and mingle in your backyard, a casual meet up at your favorite bar or a formal event at your favorite restaurant or event space. Whatever location you choose, it is important to define menu, gifts and actitivites for the event.
5. Craft Creative Decor
Transform the venue (event space) with personalized decor. Incorporate engagement photos, a customized hashtag, and thematic elements that tell your love story. Also, don’t be afraid to keep this simple. Save the major decor investments for the wedding. Make your engagement party be about the friends and family.
6. Choose Delicious Food & Beverage
Opt for a mix of delectable dishes that cater to different preferences. Whether it’s a buffet, food stations, or a formal dinner, make it memorable with diverse and mouthwatering options.
Signature cocktails are also a fun way to add some spice to the party. Craft signature cocktails that reflect your personalities. Consider naming them after memorable moments or inside jokes. Don’t forget a non-alcoholic option for all guests.
7. Engaging Entertainment
Don’t forget the music! Entertain your guests with music, a DJ, or a live band that complements the celebration’s mood. Incorporate games or activities that encourage interaction among guests.
8. Toast to Love
It’s always a good idea to prepare heartfelt toasts expressing gratitude and excitement. Invite close friends and family to share their well wishes, creating a warm and memorable atmosphere. If your group is larger than 15 guests, I would encourage you to invest in a little microphone for the speeches. I know it sounds like overkill – but trust me, it will make this segment of the event be much smoother.
9. Plan Some Surprises
Surprise your guests with unexpected elements, whether it’s a choreographed dance, a surprise performance, or a unique dessert bar. Keep the celebration full of delightful moments.
10. Include Virtual Elements
For distant friends and family, consider incorporating virtual elements to ensure they’re part of the celebration. Virtual toasts, games, or a live stream can make them feel connected.
11. Express Your Gratitude
After the celebration, express gratitude to attendees. Send thank-you notes or emails, showing appreciation for their presence and the thoughtful gifts received.
Remember, your engagement party is a prelude to the grand celebration ahead. Keep it true to your style, filled with love, laughter, and shared moments that will be cherished as you journey toward the big day. Cheers to your love story!
Would you like to learn more about how to jump start planning your wedding? Sign up for my Jump Start Planning Your Wedding course.
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