Getting engaged to the love of your life is one of the most exhilarating moments you’ll ever experience. Something as exciting as your engagement deserves to be celebrated with your friends and family. Before you start planning your wedding, consider kickstarting the festivities with an engagement party.
You’ve already bought the perfect engagement ring and you’re working on setting a realistic budget for your wedding. Throwing an engagement party may seem like an extravagant expense you simply can’t afford. But celebrating getting engaged doesn’t have to be expensive. Follow our tips on how to throw a budget-friendly engagement party and you’ll have a wonderful time celebrating the next step in your life.
1. Keep it small
You may think that your engagement party should include everyone on your wedding guest list. But, it's perfectly acceptable to invite only your closest family and friends. Not only will keeping the numbers down create an intimate atmosphere, but it will also help manage costs. Fewer guests mean more quality time with each person, too.
2. Choose digital invitations
Save on printing and postage costs by sending out digital party invitations. You don’t even need to pay for the invites. You can make your own for free by using a site like Canva. Send the invitations via email, Facebook, WhatsApp, or however you connect with your friends and family online. This way, your guests can RSVP for free, too.
3. Throw a garden party
Renting a venue can be expensive. Instead of hosting your party somewhere fancy, throw it in your back garden. If you don’t have a garden, ask a friend or family member if you can borrow theirs for the event or head to your local park.
4. Repurpose decorations
Keep your costs and your environmental impact down by reusing old party decorations. Ask friends if you can borrow any spare decorations they have and scour second-hand shops for any extras you need. Joining local wedding groups on Facebook can help you connect with people looking to pass on gently used items or give them away for free.
5. Offer a buffet
Offering a simple buffet at your engagement party will work out cheaper than serving each guest an individual plate. A buffet also allows your friends and family to choose what and how much they want to eat. Choose local, in-season produce for added savings.
6. Have simple drinks
Trim the bar tab by focusing on beer, wine, and prosecco instead of spirits. If you're set on cocktails, offer one signature drink featuring your favourite spirit to keep costs in check.
7. Consider your outfit carefully
You don't need to break the bank for your engagement party outfit. Look through Facebook groups for people looking to sell or swap second hand clothes or search through sites like eBay and Vinted for a new outfit. Do your own hair and make up or ask one of your friends to help you out.
Hosting an unforgettable engagement party on a budget is definitely possible with a touch of creativity and thoughtful planning. From invitations to your menu, you can save without sacrificing style or sophistication.
