5 Things To Keep In Mind When Planning Your Engagement Party

An engagement party is a great way to celebrate your upcoming nuptials! This will be different from a bridal shower, as both of you will be together. Here are five tips to keep in mind when planning your engagement party.

Find A Venue that Will Work for You

Primary considerations are size and availability. When looking at locations, keep the number of guests in mind as you visit places and review the amenities and accommodations. If you want some kind of “theme” for your engagement party, factor that into your review as well.  For a more informal party, consider booking a room at your favorite restaurant.

Not every engagement party needs to be at an off-site location. You can have a wonderful engagement party at your home or a friend’s house.

Consider A Budget

When looking at budgets for your total wedding cost, consider setting a budget for the engagement party. Set your budget and include some room for incidentals, and work with the venue to keep things within budget. If you or someone else are hosting and costs are being shared, be mindful to stay within your budget as well. Having a budget in mind will also help with narrowing down a venue because some may be over your allotted budget.

Plan a Menu Accordingly

Most likely, your engagement party will last multiple hours and will likely run into lunch or dinner time for your guests. Have a selection of appetizers, along with a starter like soup or salad, and a main dish with some dessert to round out the menu for a more formal party. For informal, consider having a selection of small plates.

If you’re having any type of alcohol, even if the party is happening at nontraditional mealtimes, be sure to offer some appetizers. Speaking of drinks, be sure to offer both alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks like soda and water.

Have A Gift Table

Should your guests choose to bring a gift to your party, make sure you have a place where they can put them. This makes it easier for your guests, as the hosts can direct them to the gift table. This will also help at the end when trying to gather all your gifts for travel so none are left behind (and make sure to send them a quick thank you note or text).

Hire Help if Needed

If you’re someone what wants an extra hand in planning your engagement party, look at hiring a party planner or a wedding coordinator. These professionals will have tips so the party will run as smoothly as possible. Don’t forget that if you have a wedding planner, as they can also help out with the engagement party and offer advice about how the event should be run.

Professionals also know people in the industry, so they can offer you discounts or connections with venues. Should the party be hosted at you or your friend’s house, consider hiring servers to assist. Many catering companies, in addition to providing food, also offer servers and clean up help.

Keep these tips in mind when planning your own engagement party.  Check out our bridal collection if you’re in need of a bridal gown.

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