How to Throw an Epic Engagement Party

The question has been popped and the ring is on the finger, now it’s time to plan the engagement party! Planning any event can seem daunting, but planning one as important as your engagement party can be downright stressful. We’ve put together a handy list to help you throw an epic engagement party that everyone will enjoy.

• Set A Date

Many couples wonder when is the best time to have an engagement party. Should it be straight after the proposal? Closer to the wedding? In 6 months? 12 months? 18 months? The answer: there is no single right time to have an engagement party. Do it whenever it suits you! It is impossible to give an exact timeline because every couple is different and will have a different length of engagement. The most important thing is that you set a date. That way, you can let people know early so they can book out their calendars!

• Decide On A Budget

We hate to dwell on the finances when there are way more exciting things to be discussed, but working out your budget is crucial to planning an engagement party. It’s the only way to know what kind of venue you can afford, how many people you can invite, and what kind of entertainment you can have. Deciding on a budget upfront will help to manage expectations and avoid disappointment down the track.

• Finalize Your Guest List

Guestlists are never easy but they are essential to event planning. Keep your budget in mind and consider who you’d like to attend within these financial parameters. You’ll also need to consider if you have your heart set on a place that can only accommodate certain numbers.

• Pick A Venue

Now for the fun stuff. Picking a venue is an exciting part of planning your engagement party as this is a key part of bringing your vision to life. Think about the type of celebration you want to have (formal, casual, energetic, relaxed), then pick a venue that will facilitate this. If you’re the type who loves a great buzz and a night out, choose a place with a dancefloor where the energy can really get pumping. If you’re more at home in a backyard barbecue, find a place that will provide chilled vibes where everyone can enjoy a chat and a laugh. It’s really about finding that special space that suits you as a couple.

• Send Out Invitations

Once you’ve found a venue, get those invitations out! The sooner, the better. The last thing you want is to send them out late only to learn that most people have other commitments. You can have some fun with your invitations by using your event colour palette and party theme.

• Choose A Caterer

Food is one of those things that can make or break an event. You can bet your last dollar that bad food will get people talking and if guests are left hungry because there’s not enough, it will be even worse! Consider the time of your event and how much food you will need to satisfy everyone. Great food will leave a lasting impression and ensure your guests look back favourably on your engagement party.

• Select Entertainment

If you’re serious about throwing an epic engagement party, nothing is more important than entertainment. This is where you can inject some personality and excitement into your party, perhaps even offer your guests a little something out of the ordinary. A band or DJ is a classic way to get the party started and ensure energy levels remain high throughout the event. If dancing isn’t your thing, you might opt for something a little different like a stand-up comedian or a magician to delight your guests. Whatever you choose, think about your audience and the best way to engage them. Also, think about what you would like – it is your party after all and it’s important you enjoy it!

• Consider Decor

The decor is one of those elements that can elevate an event from nice to spectacular. From romantic fairy lights to statement floral arrangements to bold centrepieces – the choices are endless. Define your aesthetic vision, then work out the visual pieces you need to make it become a reality.

• Find The Perfect Outfit

Stand out from the crowd with an epic outfit! It’s your party and you want to feel comfortable, so it’s worth investing some time to find the perfect outfit. Think about the theme of your party as this will help to guide your outfit choice.

• Assign Duties

The words ‘epic engagement party’ conjure up visions of dancing and laughter and fun. Stress is not part of the picture so make sure you delegate so that you don’t become overwhelmed with tasks on the day. Assign duties to close friends and family members so that everything goes smoothly and your night is exactly how you desire.

• Enjoy Your Party!

If you’re going to throw an epic party, you deserve to enjoy it! Remember to let go of the details during the actual event so you have the opportunity to enjoy it. Being present is the best way to make memories and if you’re having fun, there’s a good chance your guests will be too.

We all want our own engagement party to be epic, which is why we put together this checklist. It will help guide your planning activities so that you don’t miss a single detail. Got any other tips? Share them in the comments below!