Congratulations, you’re engaged! The first exciting step in your wedding journey is the engagement party—an opportunity to celebrate your upcoming nuptials with your nearest and dearest. Here are some key steps to help you plan the perfect engagement party.
Pick the perfect host:
Traditionally, the bride’s parents would host the engagement party, but today, anyone can take the reins. Whether it’s a close family member, friend, or even co-hosts, what’s most important is that the host is ready to cover the costs. So, make sure whoever takes on this role is happy to fund the celebration.
Select a date:
Choosing the right date is crucial, but it can be tricky. Consider how much planning time you’ll need based on the size and scale of the event. Larger, more extravagant parties may require several months to plan, while a smaller, more intimate affair can be organized in a shorter timeframe. While engagement parties often happen soon after the proposal, they can still be held months later. Also, take your guests’ schedules into account—especially those who may need to travel. Hosting on a weekend makes it easier for out-of-town guests to attend.
Craft your guest list:
It’s important to remember that your engagement party guest list should include those who will also be invited to your wedding. In other words, this can serve as a preliminary list for the big day. If you’re uncertain about how large your wedding will be, consider keeping the engagement party more intimate to avoid over-inviting and creating expectations.
Set a budget:
Without a financial plan, party expenses can quickly spiral out of control. Establish a budget that outlines how much you’ll allocate for key elements like the venue, catering, drinks, invitations, and decorations. This will help you stay focused and make decisions based on what’s affordable. Don’t forget to leave room for unexpected costs!
Choose the perfect venue:
Once you have a sense of your guest list size, you can pick a venue that accommodates everyone comfortably. The venue sets the tone for your party, so think about the vibe you want to create. A backyard setting offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere, while a grand ballroom will add a touch of elegance and luxury. Your venue choice can also help you envision the style of decor and theme for the event.
Send out invitations:
With the date and location locked in, it’s time to send out the invitations. Aim to send them at least three weeks in advance so your guests have enough time to plan. The style of your venue will guide the design of the invites, making this step easier. Be sure to include important details, such as the dress code, to ensure everyone is dressed appropriately.
Plan the menu:
Now that your venue is set, you can plan a menu that complements the event. If you’re hosting a cocktail-style gathering, bite-sized finger foods are ideal. For a more intimate affair, a family-style menu creates a warm, communal dining experience. And, of course, don’t forget the drinks! Tailor your menu to suit both your budget and the overall party theme.
Design the decor:
By this stage, you likely have a clear vision of your desired decor. Now it’s time to bring it to life! Add romantic touches with mini candles and fairy lights, or incorporate fabric and flowers to enhance your color scheme and create a soft, inviting atmosphere.
Create a gift registry:
While gifts aren’t expected, some guests may want to bring something to mark the occasion. Consider setting up a gift registry with lower- to mid-priced items, as people will likely spend more on wedding gifts later. Alternatively, you could suggest guests donate to a charity of your choice in lieu of gifts.
Dress the part:
Engagement parties are often a couple’s first opportunity to showcase wedding-related style, and many choose to wear white for the occasion. However, this isn’t a requirement—just make sure your outfit suits the venue and party vibe. A sundress might be perfect for a casual outdoor gathering, while a more formal look would be appropriate for a ballroom celebration.
Celebrate and enjoy:
After all the planning, it’s time to relax and enjoy the party! Savour this special time with your loved ones and celebrate the start of your new chapter together. For an unforgettable engagement celebration, Aintree Lodge provides a beautiful, historic backdrop and is the ideal setting to host your event and enjoy a weekend getaway.