Should Couples Host an Engagement Party?

Getting engaged is a milestone in life that calls for a celebration. So after the "Will you marry me?" question has been popped and an engagement ring has been slipped onto your finger, you might begin to ask: "How do I celebrate this awesome moment?". To start, many couples initially pick up the phone to call family and friends to share the big news, followed by photos of the ring, the tears, and the fiancé all over their social media feeds.

But once the news is finally out for the world to know, you may start to struggle with whether or not you should host one of your first wedding-related events—the engagement party. If you find yourself asking "Are engagement parties a thing?", we have a few tips and tricks to help you determine whether this soirée is right for you. In short, while engagement parties are popular events in the wedding world today, they aren't required and can be skipped depending on a couple's personal situation. Read on for more.

Determine Your Budget

If you're unsure about hosting an engagement party due to financial reasons, your first step should be to assess your finances in order to determine if this type of event is feasible for you and your partner. Plan out your wedding expenses from now until the big day, particularly noting the must-have costs such as your attire, the venue, the food, and the photography. Have any leftover cash? Go ahead and use those remaining funds on your engagement party, or save the money for other wedding-related expenses.

Consider Your Guest List

While some couples host engagement parties as big as some people's weddings, you don't have to throw the party of the century just to celebrate your new relationship status. If you're averse to hosting an engagement party because of the potential large guest count, consider cutting your list in order to throw an event that feels just right for you. Small soirées at a local restaurant, or your home for under 25 people, make for an intimate and lovely celebration your friends and family will remember forever.

Asses Your Venue Options

Unlike the actual wedding itself, your engagement party will likely be a bit more relaxed and intimate. But regardless of how pared-back this celebration can be, your venue has the ability to make or break your decision on whether an engagement party is the right move. Luckily, since you have a wider range of opportunities when it comes to this event's locale, find a space that aligns with your personal vision and wallet.

For smaller, more low-key events, a restaurant, park, backyard, or even the beach are all welcoming yet chill environments to celebrate you and your partner's love. Going all out? We're here for it! Rent out a rooftop bar, winery, brewery, or even a ballroom for an unforgettable party. Most importantly, host your celebration in a space that feels true to you as a couple.

Skip the Engagement Party

Finally, if you've weighed all your options and have decided that an engagement party is not for you, then skip it altogether. While journeying through your wedding adventure, there will be tons of moments to help you celebrate before the big day. So skip the potential stress and financial strain of this event, and simply enjoy this new season of life as you see fit.