The engagement party is one of the many fun events leading up to the big day. Planning it well, so that the party goes smoothly, depends on following a general checklist and modifying it for your own particular needs. Here are some pointers to get you started:
Two Months Ahead
About two months before the general time frame of the engagement party, work out the guest list with the bride. Keep in mind that everyone who is invited to this party typically also receives a wedding invitation as well. It will be a more intimate affair than the wedding so an engagement party is usually limited to close friends and family.
Ask the bride for a couple of possible dates and settle on a venue. If it's going to be held at a club, restaurant or another outside venue, make reservations now and put down the deposit.
Encourage the bride to register at her favorite stores. This not only makes it easier for people who want to purchase a party gift, it also gives her more time to look at those items she wants.
One Month Ahead
Send out invitations about a month before the engagement party to allow invitees plenty of time to make preparations. These invitations can be as simple as you want them to be, and they don't have to match the wedding stationery. You can even make them yourself or send them via email.
Get together with the bride and decide what theme or style she wants the engagement party to have. Now is also the time to start brainstorming about the games and activities that you'll have for the guests.
Finalize the menu and drink options with the bride. If you're preparing the food yourself, consider offering at least a few vegetarian and/or gluten-free options. Handheld foods that are bite-sized work well in this type of setting. You can also serve the food buffet style as well.
Two Weeks Ahead
Though it doesn't have to be elaborate or long, you should be prepared to make a toast to both the bride and the guests. Just a few words thanking the guests for attending and congratulating the bride are sufficient. This will go more smoothly if you start rehearsing now.
Draw up a shopping list and head to the store for any non-perishable items. Don't forget about cutlery if you're hosting it at someone's home and they don't have enough for all the guests.
Assess the seating options and make arrangements to borrow or rent more chairs and tables if necessary. Decide how to rearrange the furniture in order to accommodate the extra people if the engagement party is being held at someone's house.
Stay organized and on top of the myriad of details involved in throwing an engagement party by using the timeline above. Then you'll be able to relax and enjoy the party knowing that everything is under control.
Contact Bella Sera
At Bella Sera, we help brides and grooms plan their perfect wedding. With seven acres of beautiful grounds and with loads of experience hosting every kind of wedding, Bella Sera is Pittsburgh's spot for a lovely wedding, indoors or out. Contact us today to see our grounds and make an appointment.Book your special event and let the authentic Italian flavors of Bella Sera make your special occasion one to remember.
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