Engagement Party Checklist + tips

Planning an engagement party is an exciting time for everyone involved. Even though it’s not as detailed as the wedding day, there are still several steps to make a memorable event. Our engagement party checklist covers the main tasks and small details you need to consider. Whether you’re the one getting engaged and arranging the party or you’re a friend or family member doing it for the couple, this checklist will help. Once you’ve picked a date (usually about two or three months after the proposal), use this checklist to focus on the last tasks.

The Complete Engagement Party Checklist

1. Choose a date and decide on your budget.

Before diving into planning, make sure to pick a date and set a budget. The couple should agree on the party date unless it’s a surprise. Typically, the host handles the budget.

2. Decide on the party theme.

Once you’ve established the host, budget, and date, start thinking about how you want the party to look and feel. Consider whether you’ll need a venue or if a cozy home gathering suits you better.

Choosing a theme early on will help determine which vendors you might need, like a florist or cake baker. Consider colors, decor, and themes. For a lavish affair, opt for a rooftop venue adorned with candles and metallic hues. Or keep it casual with a backyard bash featuring fresh flowers and laid-back food. If planning for the couple, draw inspiration from their hobbies or lifestyle.

3. Choose a venue and plan logistics.

Selecting the right venue is one of the key steps in our engagement party checklist. You have various options, like a trendy bar for celebratory cocktails, a restaurant for good food and friends, or even your backyard for a laid-back vibe.

Consider the number of guests, start and end times, and any dress code. Plan ahead for setup tasks—if it’s a DIY job, recruit friends or discuss arrangements with venue staff.

4. Set up an engagement party registry.

Start building your wedding registry early after getting engaged. Having an engagement party registry ready allows guests to send congratulatory gifts, even before the party. Include a few options for guests to choose from.

Instead of juggling multiple registries at different stores, simplify things by choosing just one.

5. Finalize the guest list and send invitations.

Engagement parties typically have a smaller guest list, mainly close family and friends from both sides. However, it’s essential to carefully consider the guest list and invitations, ensuring that everyone invited to the engagement party will also be invited to the wedding. This is particularly important if you’re hosting the party for the couple—you should confirm the guest list with them before sending out invitations or sharing event details.

You can opt for simple invites, DIY creations, or even email invitations. Don’t worry about matching the engagement invitations to the wedding colors or theme; the engagement party is an opportunity to be creative and different.

6. Arrange necessary vendors.

Compile a list of services you might need for the party, like catering, flowers, or bartending. Once you’ve finalized the date and budget, contact potential vendors promptly to secure their services in advance.

7. Collect decorations, favors, and supplies.

With the theme, venue, and invitations sorted, it’s time to focus on decorations. Keep it simple, especially if the venue already has decor in place (e.g., a restaurant or winery).

Focus on essential decorations like party centerpieces, congratulatory banners or signs, tablecloths, balloons, and decorative string lights or candles to create the right atmosphere. If you want to add some extra flair, consider smaller details like custom cocktail napkins, ring-shaped cupcake toppers, or heart-shaped confetti.

8. Plan food and drinks.

For the next item on your engagement party checklist, decide on the menu around the same time as your décor. Consider small bites or a buffet for larger groups, while a sit-down meal suits smaller gatherings. Don’t forget to arrange drinks, including cocktails and non-alcoholic options. Contact caterers or restaurants in advance to secure their services.

9. Choose activities.

Enhance guest interaction with games or icebreakers, especially if it’s a mixed crowd. Think of couple’s trivia or outdoor games to keep everyone engaged.

10. Select attire.

Pick outfits that match the party’s vibe and theme. If you’re the host, aim for polished yet practical attire that won’t overshadow the couple.

11. Confirm RSVPs.

Follow up with guests who haven’t responded to finalize arrangements and notify vendors of the final headcount.

12. Create a playlist.

Prepare music that complements the atmosphere, opting for genres like instrumental or smooth jazz to avoid overpowering conversations.

13. Rehearse toasts.

Prepare a short, informal toast to thank guests for attending and acknowledge the host if it’s not you.

14. Prepare favors.

Assemble small tokens of appreciation for guests, such as custom matchbooks or sweet treats.

15. Send thank-you notes.

Express gratitude to guests, especially those who brought gifts, within a month of the event. Consider a thoughtful gesture for the host if it wasn’t you.

Final Words

Now that you have your engagement party checklist, it’s time to take action. if you need ideas, Mivinna offers a wide selection of engagement party invitation designs, including luxurious gowns and dresses. Remember to choose your dress at least a month before the event, so it’s a task to prioritize early in the planning process.