Let the Parties Begin!
Once all the major players have been notified, someone, usually your parents, will throw a party in honor of you and your fiancé. This party can be as formal or informal as the hosts would like. The engagement party marks the official beginning of the wedding season.
The Party
When is the engagement party held? The engagement party should coincide with the publication of your announcement in the newspapers, either at the same time or very soon after. If the engagement will be short, the party should be held as soon as possible so as not to interfere with any bridal showers or bach-elorette parties.
What is the most traditional way to have an engagement party? The parents or mother of the bride host a party at which the formal announcement is made by the mother of the bride-to-be, and the groom is presented to the friends and family. If the bride lives in a different city from her parents, the party may be held where she lives so that more of her friends can be in attendance.
Can we have more than one engagement party? The bride's parents usually have first dibs on throwing the engagement party, but the groom's parents or your friends may want to throw a party too.
Gifts
Should I expect gifts at an engagement party? Gifts aren't required but are often presented, so beginning your registry is a good idea. You should promptly send written thank-you notes for any gifts you receive.
Alert
Most stores that offer a Bridal Gift Registry will supply the couple with small cards stating “Registered at …” It is not acceptable to include these cards with your engagement party invitation or your engagement announcement. Remember, announcing your engagement is not a license to ask for gifts.
Do I have to register for gifts? A bridal registry is a service that can only help you and your guests. While many couples hold off on completing their registries until later (see Chapter 7), registering for some items now will provide guests with guidance should they choose to purchase an engagement present. Most department and specialty stores offer a free bridal registry service and a staff consultant who will advise you on what items might be useful for your new home.
