Engagement Party 101

Although the engagement party has traditionally been used as a way for a couple to announce to close family and friends that they plan to marry, more and more people are opting to reveal their engagement ahead of time and throw an engagement party to celebrate the good news. But if you haven’t been to one of these events before, you may not know quite what to expect. Is this a dressy affair, like the wedding itself, or something informal, along the lines of a bridal shower? Is it acceptable to bring a “plus one”? Are gifts expected? Here are just a few questions answered so that you can attend an engagement party without the fear of flubbing.

First and foremost, an engagement party is cause for celebration. The couple has probably already let it be known that the wedding is on the horizon and this event is just a way to announce it formally (and have a fun little shindig in the process). It is also a way for the families and friends of the two lovebirds to mix and mingle, possibly for the first time. In short, this type of party is meant as something of an ice-breaker, a way to get everyone acquainted before the big day.

As such, it can either be a dressy or casual affair, but if the couple doesn’t specify, you can generally use the venue as a way to guess the level of formality. If the event is to take place at a country club or fancy restaurant, then you should probably step up your ensemble a bit. A party held at a family home, on the other hand, will likely mean more casual dress. And when it comes to bringing a date, simply ask the couple ahead of time. Likely there won’t be any prAs for presents, they are most certainly not required. Should you choose to bring a token, however, make it something small and personal, like a photo frame or a guide to wedding planning. Don’t make a big show of presenting it, either, as this may distress other guests who have not brought gifts. Instead, discreetly slip it to the bride or groom when you can catch one of them alone.

Finally, keep in mind that this party is a precursor to other events (the bridal shower, bachelor and bachelorette parties, and of course, the wedding). It would behoove you not to do anything stupid (like drink too much and start table dancing) since you’re going to be seeing these people several more times in the near future.