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> wedding > engagement “We’re
Engaged!!” You just got engaged… now it’s
time
to party with friends and family!
You dial her number. She answers. You exuberantly shout, “we’re
engaged!!!”
After the screams and “ahs” and second-by-second replay,
you and your closest girlfriend reminisce and giggle about the
past—including all the last-name guessing games, in anticipation
that maybe this one is really the one!
Well, finally, you know what your name will be… and it’s
time to execute those well-thought-out dreams of the perfect celebration.
But, where in the world do you start??
Fortunately, your mom is on top of it! She knows that traditionally
it’s her responsibility to host an engagement party (even
though it’s perfectly fine if you and your fiancé…
or anyone else… takes charge!).
There are many fabulous party ideas that you can pass along to
mom—some are more elaborate and pricey, others are more
casual and cost-effective…
Bar-B-Que: Whether held in someone’s back
yard or the local park, guests will appreciate the laid back atmosphere
to come and go as they please, to dress how they want and to socialize
casually. If you want a little more activity, there’s always
sports--volleyball, baseball, et al.
Elegant Dinner Party: Unless it’s catered
by a local top-notch restaurant, this option may take a little
more prep time. However, if your mom loves to entertain and the
guest list is at a minimum, go for it! Check out all the great
recipes at www.marthastewart.com.
Wine Tasting: If you live close enough to a winery,
take a small group out to celebrate. Make sure, though, that no
one is sensitive to alcohol—you don’t want to make
it awkward for anyone! Get the couple a personalized bottle of
wine from www.signaturewines.com.
Sports Event: Rent a skybox at your home-team
game! For sports lovers, it makes for great conversation. For
those who care more about socializing, then knowing the outcome,
be sure drinks and hors d'oeuvres are in ample supply. If budget
is low, why not reserve just a section—with free popcorn
and soda!?
Dance the Night Away: If you’re a dancing
queen, why not invite a DJ to your party—or rent out a room
or dance club, already equipped with DJ equipment and a disco
ball. Get grandpa on the dance floor for great fun!
Three, Two, One, Liftoff!: Take your party up
in the air, with a hot-air balloon. Some carry up to 16 people
or you can rent several balloons with smaller baskets. Guests
will never forget this experience! Land in a beautiful spot where
your guests are served a catered brunch.
Down by the Sea: (or lake or ocean). If you and
your fiancé love the outdoors, others will appreciate various
water sport activities—or simply enjoying the view!
Cocktail Party: For a fancy but not-too-expensive
event, have a cocktail party at your home (or your parents’).
Offer guests hors d'oeuvres and drinks! Themes are always fun
too—for example, guests can dress up as their favorite married
celebrity.
First Date Reunion: Host the party at the place
you had your first date—whether a nice restaurant or a little
old-fashioned ice cream parlor.
Champagne Brunch: Several hotels will host your
brunch! For a fun party gift, you can give small bottles of champagne
(or an engraved glass) to each guest. Try tying a white ribbon
on them with a poem written on parchment paper and cut out as
a heart.
