Said yes? Check. Shared the news with family? Check. Announced your newly engaged status on social media? Check. Set a date for the engagement party? Well, that depends!
Popping the champagne with your nearest and dearest to celebrate your engagement sounds like a no-brainer, but there’s still a few logistics involved in getting everyone together. The good news is, an engagement party is entirely optional. If you need help deciding what to do, here are the most common reasons couples choose to party or pass!
Reasons to Have an Engagement Party
You’re having a long engagement.
If your walk down the aisle isn’t for another 18 months or more, an engagement party will help kick off the celebrations as you count down to the big day.
A ring selfie just isn’t enough.
There’s something to be said about enjoying quality time with the ones you love. Your engagement is the perfect reason to catch up and show off that sparkler!
You’d love to get everyone acquainted.
An engagement party is a fun way to get your friends and family mingling before the wedding, particularly if it’s the first time they’ll all be together.
You’re having a small wedding.
If you’re jetting overseas for a destination wedding, planning an intimate elopement or just keeping things small to fit the budget, this is a great opportunity to celebrate with everyone who can’t be with you on the day.
You love planning events.
If you’re someone who loves any excuse to throw a fabulous party, there’s no better time!
Reasons Not to Have an Engagement Party
You’re having a short engagement.
Organising two big events within a few months of each other can make for a hectic schedule, especially if you’re trying to fit in hens and bucks parties too.
You don’t want to break the bank.
Whether you’re short on cash or just want to put every extra dollar towards the big day, it makes sense to save for the main event. And let’s not forget the honeymoon fund!
You don’t have the time.
If you’ve already got a lot on your plate and planning an engagement party feels like just one more job, stick to the highlights and save yourself the stress.
Many of your guests will have to travel.
If you’re worried about asking your guests to spend their leave and savings twice for your big day, it’s fine to skip this one.
You’re not excited by the idea.
Feeling a bit indifferent about the whole engagement party thing? Go with your gut and enjoy all the other celebrations that happen in the lead up to the wedding!
Decided a party’s for you? Find all the answers to your engagement party planning questions!
Photography: (1) Lauren Rae Photography via The Perfect Palette | (2) monroe + co via Mrs. Freund & Co. | (3) Katie Parra Photography via Style Me Pretty
