Wow, you are showing off that beautiful engagement ring, but now you need to think about an engagement party. Where do you start?

Engagement parties are the perfect place for family and friends of both you and your groom to meet and become friends. You need to be available at the beginning of the event so you can greet everyone and since you know all the them you can introduce them. Be sure and talk to everyone and of course show off the engagement ring.

Engagement parties can be really fancy, black tie and cocktails, a sit down dinner or maybe just a casual buffet party. No matter what you decide to have be sure and see that everyone knows everyone.

Old traditions had the brides parents hosting the engagement party but today, most couples host it themselves. You can hold them at church reception rooms, local halls or even someone's yard if the weather permits. Use your imagination and of course stay within your budget.

Having a theme for your party can be a real ice breaker and add a lot of fun to the event. Some themes mentioned were 50's decorating with paper records and bright colors, a country theme, like Hawaiian or Mexican with bright colors and using pinatas or grass shirts. You can find tons of decorations at party shops or just use your imagination. To add to the party atmosphere be sure and have some music that goes along with the theme. You don't have to pay a band if your budget is short, but use your CDs.