How to Host an Engagement Cocktail Party

An engagement cocktail party is a great way to celebrate your good news with friends and family. There are just a few key rules you need to know when holding an engagement cocktail party, such as who should host and who to put on the guest list. Follow them, and host an engagement cocktail party that people will remember for years to come.

Instructions

1. Choose the right host. Traditionally, the bride's parents host the engagement cocktail party to announce the news to their friends and family. But nowadays, anything goes; it can be the groom's family or even a friend or co-worker. As long as everyone's in the loop, it doesn't really matter who hosts the party.

2. Decide on the style for your party. This will largely depend on the couple and the guest list. You can either make it a black-tie affair with catering and an open bar, or go more causal with a buffet. There are pros and cons to both, so go with your personal preference here.

3. Come up with a guest list and send out the invitations. A cocktail party celebrating your engagement is a great opportunity to share with people you may not be able to invite to the wedding due to budgetary restrictions. Give them plenty of notice and a way to RSVP so you can get a head count.

4. Plan a great party once you've sent the invitations. Create a menu to fit your style and theme, and enlist the help of friends or a caterer to see it through. Decide on party favors and drink selections at this stage, too.

5. Throw your party. You've spent all that time planning the event, so now it's time to enjoy your evening. Mingle with your guests, keep their drinks full and the food hot, and the rest of the evening should fall into place.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're a really fun couple, consider something different, like a seventies disco decor style or a Hawaiian theme.

• Consider hiring a live band or DJ for your cocktail party, to give you the opportunity to show off your dance skills.