28 Dec Engagement Party Checklist: Here’s What To Do
You’ve said yes, and now it’s time to celebrate!
The official countdown to I do is on! Gather your friends and family for an intimate celebration to kick off your wedding journey! Here are the things that need to be on your engagement party checklist for a stress-free fete.
Set a Budget
First and foremost, decide how much money you want to spend. You have a wedding to plan, after all! So set a budget for each component of the day (food, drinks, decor, outfit, etc) and stick to it! Decide what items are most important to you and the least important can be removed from the list to keep within your set budget Read: How to Throw an Amazing, Affordable Engagement Party
Pick a Date
Two-three months after the proposal is ideal, as you’re still in that literally-just-engaged window and gives enough time for your close family and friends to align with their schedules. You can send an informal save the date to ensure guests have the date on their calendars, especially during busy times of the year, especially near any holiday times.
Create Your Guest List
Typically, you want your guest list to be pretty small. Your closest friends and immediate family from both sides should be invited to celebrate you and your fiancé. This gives those close to you time to mingle and get to know all the important parties as well. Also, only invite people who will score an invitation to the big day. Give thought to the list as this is the beginning of your wedding guest list and is important to make sure you have included the most special people in your lives to share these moments with.
Select a Venue
At home, at your favorite restaurant, at your parents? Consider all of your venue options and how they fit the vibe you are going for, the number of guests you are expecting, and the budget you are working with. If outdoors, remember to have a rain date or backup plans such as tents or and indoor porch.
Register for Gifts
If you don’t want gifts, be sure to include a note on the invitation ‘No gifts please!’, but if gifts are welcome, consider registering to guide your thoughtful loved ones in a desired direction. While your wedding registry can have no limit, opt for small to medium sized gifts or even cash/items towards your wedding for your engagement partyregistry. Read: Cash Registry Wording Tips
Send out Invitations
You should mail or email your invitations three weeks to a month before your party. If you have a theme or specific color palette, it is fun to have that incorporated in your invitation. A photo of your and your fiance is a great choice, too! Read: Why You’ll Be Happy You Got Engagement Photos
Fine-tune Your Menu
Keep your menu simple to keep costs and day-of prep painless. If you are having your party at a restaurant, pick a couple of items ahead of time to create a smaller menu for guests to select from. If you are having a backyard party, a buffet or catered is always a good plan. Appetizers and cocktails are also an option for the budget conscious couple. Sit down dinners are not always expected at an Engagement Party. Try to consider any allergies or dietary restrictions that you know of!
Decorate Accordingly
No need to go overboard with decor—balloons, streamers, or even some fresh flowers can make every venue feel festive. Candles and lights always add sparkle and fun to the event. Personalized place settings are a nice touch, too! It shows how special your guests are to you.
Plan Activities
Some “get to know you” games are great for the two families to meet and talk about the honored quests of the day! Having backyard games, like cornhole or giant Jenga, make for a fun vibe. It’s a great way to get everyone to relax and feel more comfortable.
Choose an Outfit
As the bride-to-be, a little white dress or jumpsuit is perfect for a casual affair! Select a carefree style that you feel comfortable in. This is your time to look and feel special. All eyes are on your and your partner. Accessories and bride gear complete the look!
Prep the Venue
If you are hosting at your house, make sure it is all clean and ready to go to set up your decorations. If you are having it at a restaurant or venue always give an updated headcount and create an area for gifts to be held. Planning ahead will allow you time to get yourself ready and also enjoy the day. Ask for help to minimize the workload and keep it as stress-free as you can.
Enjoy the celebration!
Ultimately, this is a day to celebrate the beginning of this exciting time with those closest to you! Keep this gathering as worry-free as possible and enjoy! Have fun making introductions for your family members and friends, this is a time to connect everyone. Make sure someone is in charge of photos so you and your guests can remember the day and share these photos on your wedding website.
Inspired by this engagement party checklist? Here are more wedding planning tools to make your planning process a breeze!
Featured Image: @mrsjessielove
