A reader recently posed this question: Is there a standard amount of time before the wedding that an engagement party should occur?
The engagement party can be held any time from a couple of months to a few weeks before the wedding. If you throw a shower too far in advance, the couple may not have had time to complete their registry. Too soon before, and the bride may be too distracted by all she has to do. An exception is when important friends and family will only be in the area days before the wedding.
Huh? An engagement party a few weeks before a wedding? Wouldn't that be a little odd?
Posted by: Peach | October 06, 2008 at 11:07 AM
Interesting. I haven't been to an engagement party. Who is supposed to be invited and what are the goals/purpose of the event?
Posted by: ShopLittleGifts | October 06, 2008 at 02:58 PM
We had our engagement party in February of this year, in our home. We got engaged over the previous Christmas, and invited family and our very closest friends (most of whom are in our bridal party). The wedding isn't until June '09. But, I also verbally asked people note to bring gifts. We did get a few gifts (bottles of wine, a really cute set of matching mugs), which I very much appreciated, but did not expect.
I truly just wanted to bring people together and have a nice afternoon.
Posted by: Krista | October 08, 2008 at 08:43 AM
In my home country (Italy) we go from 6 month to a one year before the wedding...but nowdays we use more to have a dinner with the parents just to let them know the date of the wedding and start to plan...
Posted by: Simo | October 08, 2008 at 10:07 AM
Great question. Thanks for answering it but I do have a few follow ups...
1.) What you described sounds like it might take the place of a bridal shower, is that what you meant?
2.) Traditionally who hosts the engagement party? (I always thought that a friend or family member was "supposed" to throw a party or dinner for the happy couple.)
Posted by: future Mrs. Jones | October 09, 2008 at 11:38 PM
There is so much to plan for the big day and when something is forgotten it is certainly wonderful when someone else is paying close attention to details. What a wonderful surprise to receive unique jewelry at the engagement party to compliment the gown. The quality and packaging were stunning from www.bethegallery.com
Posted by: Maria | October 21, 2008 at 11:17 AM