You may have heard of some engagements this past week, including your own. My best wishes to you for a wonderful life. Here are some tips that will help you to move forward as a newly engaged person and as a guest.
How to congratulate the beaming couple:
Bride-to-be: to congratulate a woman, especially over the age of 40, implies that she has finally found someone to marry her. Extending best wishes to both the bride and groom is more appropriate.
Groom-to-be: It is more fitting to say “Congratulations” to a man as his intended bride said yes and it is his good fortune that she responded positively.
Engagement Parties
Engagement parties are wonderful but it is not necessary. They can be formal or casual. You can give a party 2 to 4 months after the proposal. If you want a small family gathering right after the proposal, that’s acceptable but remember to give yourself time. If several are thrown in your honor, you must attend.
As a guest, you might be invited to several parties of the bride and groom-to-be, you should attend at least one. Also, RSVP yes or no to all invites, even the ones on social media. If your response is “no” contact the host directly (do not reply to everyone) to explain why you cannot attend and offer your best wishes. Most brides-to-be wear white to their parties so avoid wearing white or a style to show them out. Look nice but don’t call attention to yourself.
Gift or No Gift
Typically it is not customary to present a gift as an engaged couple does not have a registry for their engagement. However, if you present an engagement gift, it does not preclude you from giving a wedding gift.
Can I see the ring?
Typically a bride will volunteer their hand to show their ring. If they don’t, you can ask, but if they appear reluctant don’t push. However, if they do, do not ask about the origins of the ring or the value.
Toasting
The father of the bride generally gives a toast to the beaming couple and the couple will toast their families. Please note that when someone gives a toast in your honor, you should remain seated. Do not raise or drink from your glass. After everyone has given their toasts to you and your intended, you can give a toast to your guests.
All in all, this is a time to enjoy all the excitement, well wishes, and planning for your wedding day. My wedding was planned in three months and my coordinators at Spectacular Affairs pulled it off without a hitch. My husband and I just showed up.
All the best in love,
