A Simple Engagement Party Checklist

Throwing an engagement party is an exciting time and way to commemorate your new and amazing chapter in life. Consider the style and atmosphere you want to create at your event. This engagement party checklist is here to get you started on your planning journey.

What kind of look and feel do you have in mind? It’s a great idea to choose a theme that reflects your style as a newly engaged couple. There are also many creative ways to incorporate both your personality and unique love story into the celebrations! 

Planning an engagement party can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. With the right planning process and organization, you can create an event that is truly memorable and special. 

Here is a simple engagement party checklist to help with your planning:

Determine Your Budget

Before you can start planning the fun details of your engagement party, there are a few key things that need to be taken care of. It’s important to consider the size and budget of your event. Start by setting your budget and using that to determine the size of the party. 

Starting here on your planning checklist is a quick and easy way to ensure you stay within your budget when looking at things like catering and choosing the right venue for the size of your party. 

Outline a Guest List

When planning your engagement party, the guest list of close family and friends is a key first step. It’s also a good idea to make sure to invite the same people to the engagement party that you plan to invite to your wedding. Aim to settle the guest list early on, so you have a good idea of the numbers for your venue, food and drinks, and more on your checklist. 

Choose a Venue

Whether you’re planning a small dinner party at home or a patio party at a restaurant with a private room, you can be as creative as you like. The good news is that there are plenty of venue options to choose from here on The Bash, making engagement party planning easy. 

If you’re looking for something more low-key, your own backyard is the perfect spot for you and your families to come together in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

Send Invitations

Once you’ve picked a date and chosen your venue, it’s time to send out invitations and confirm RSVPs so you have a clear idea of the numbers attending. Be sure to include ways your guests can quickly RSVP with your invitation, such as via an email address or phone number. 

If you have a theme picked out for your wedding, it’s a nice idea to choose an invitation design that aligns with the style.

Create a Gift Registry

Set up a gift registry to save your guests the hassle of shopping for gifts. It’s a great way for your loved ones to gift you something you will really appreciate, and that is both thoughtful and practical. It allows them to get clarity on exactly what you want, eliminating the burden of too many and/or duplicate gifts.

Book All Your Vendors

If you choose an all-inclusive event venue, you probably won’t need to hire too many vendors yourself, however if you’re planning your engagement party at home, you’ll no doubt need to hire a few to help bring your vision to life. Here are some to consider:

Caterer

If you’re hosting an engagement party at a venue, you probably are already set based on what they offer. From formal to laid-back dining, there are plenty of options to choose from if you’re looking to hire a caterer on your own. 

They can help you navigate any dietary requirements and ensure guests are well taken care of on the day. Choose a menu that fits with your theme and is also flexible enough to have something for everyone.

Live Band or DJ

Keep your guests entertained all night with great music from a live band or with a setlist from a local DJ. They know how to keep the crowd engaged and dancing all night. Bands or DJs can create a unique setlist just for you and work with you to help create the right atmosphere at your event. 

Pro Tip: You can hire a DJ that can also help with the running order of your event with announcements throughout the night too. 

Makeup Artist

You want to look your best at your engagement party, so consider hiring a makeup artist to help create the perfect look for you. They will have you looking and feeling your best for the special occasion with makeup that is both stylish and long-lasting.

Photographer

A professional photographer will capture your engagement party perfectly and also take some romantic engagement portraits for those all-important save the date cards. Capture all of the fun and special moments at your event so you have beautiful photos and videos to look back on for the years to come. 

Rentals

Event rentals are a great way to make an engagement party special. Renting items such as tables, chairs, linens, cutlery, and glassware can help create a more refined atmosphere and make the event more memorable. Things like lighting, seating, candles, florals, and signage are some of the many ways rentals can help customize your event. 

Here are just a few rentals you could consider to help make your engagement party a success:

• Décor
• Photo Booth
• Lighting
• Mobile Bar

Celebrate!

At the end of the day, it’s all about celebrating this exciting time and the journey to your big day. Your wedding day will be here before you know it, and it’s time to celebrate this special moment.

Find more engagement party ideas here on The Bash.