Planning an engagement party is a joyful occasion, but like any social event, there are certain etiquette rules that should be followed to ensure everything goes smoothly. Whether you’re hosting or attending, understanding these engagement party dos and don’ts will help you navigate the celebration with grace and ease.
Dos
- Do Consider the Guest List Carefully: One of the most important aspects of planning an engagement party is deciding who to invite. Traditionally, the guest list should be more intimate than the wedding itself. Stick to close family and friends, and ensure that everyone who is invited to the engagement party will also be invited to the wedding.
- Do Choose the Right Venue: The venue sets the tone for the entire event. If you’re aiming for something chic and memorable, consider a rooftop venue. Celebrating under the stars adds a touch of elegance, especially in a location as vibrant as Melbourne. For example, a stylish option like a rooftop venue hire in Melbourne offers a stunning backdrop for your engagement festivities, making the event feel both special and exclusive.
- Do Keep It Casual (If That’s Your Vibe): Engagement parties can be as formal or as laid-back as you like. If you and your partner prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, don’t be afraid to opt for a casual celebration. A backyard BBQ or a low-key brunch can be just as enjoyable as a sit-down dinner at a formal venue. The key is to align the party with your personalities and relationship style.
- Do Make a Toast: It’s tradition for the host (often the parents of the bride or groom) to make a toast in honour of the engaged couple. If the couple is hosting the event themselves, they can offer a toast thanking everyone for their love and support. Keep the speech short and sweet, focusing on the joy of the occasion and the excitement of what’s to come.
- Do Set a Dress Code: Providing a dress code will save your guests from any confusion and ensure that everyone feels comfortable. Whether it’s cocktail, smart casual, or formal, setting expectations for attire helps your guests come prepared. Make sure to include the dress code on your invitation or event details.
Don’ts
- Don’t Expect Gifts: While engagement gifts are appreciated, they’re not a necessity or an expectation. Some guests may choose to bring a small token, but it’s important not to pressure anyone into doing so. If you prefer not to receive gifts, make this clear on the invitation by stating that the guests’ presence is the only gift you need.
- Don’t Make It Too Similar to the Wedding: The engagement party should not overshadow the wedding. Avoid making it feel like a mini-wedding by keeping the decor, attire, and formality levels distinct. While it’s tempting to go all out, especially with decorations and themes, save the grand gestures for your big day.
- Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Moment: Amidst the planning and hosting, it can be easy to get caught up in the details and forget to actually enjoy yourself. This is your engagement party, after all! Make sure to take a step back and relish the moment with your loved ones. Remember, the engagement party is a prelude to the wedding celebrations, so use it as a chance to relax and have fun.
- Don’t Skimp on Invitations: Sending proper invitations (whether printed or digital) sets the tone for your event. Informal invitations like a text message may seem convenient, but they can come across as impersonal. Choose a method that matches the formality of your party, and be sure to include all the relevant details like venue, time, and dress code.
- Don’t Invite People Just for the Sake of It: It can be tempting to invite a large crowd to celebrate with you, but remember that the engagement party is meant to be an intimate affair. Resist the urge to over-invite, especially if you haven’t finalised your wedding guest list. It’s better to keep things small and personal rather than overwhelming yourselves with too many guests.
Happy Engagement!
Engagement parties are a wonderful way to celebrate the start of a couple’s journey toward marriage. By following these simple dos and don’ts, you can ensure your engagement party runs smoothly and is a delightful event for everyone involved. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or booking a sophisticated event, keeping etiquette in mind will help create memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
