Do You Need to Bring a Gift to an Engagement Party?
If your friend or family member just got engaged, then celebrations are in order. Most couples throw engagement parties to mark this life changing decision. Also, to kick off the start of wedding planning. There are all types of engagement parties, and sometimes, this can affect the engagement gift etiquette. If you will be attending an engagement party and you are not sure whether to take a gift or not, it is worth it to think about the engagement party gift etiquette required.
Your friends might be having a super laid-back party, or an extremely formal one. Some might have something very simple or minimalistic, all depends on their choice. However, this again can make it a bit difficult to decide on taking a gift or not, and if yes, what type of gift. The good thing is that gifts are not often required for engagement parties, so you can make a relaxed decision. If you do decide on taking something, engagement party gift ideas could range from a lovely book, to some wine, or even a cute picture frame. The type of party can give you a clue to the type of gift that would be appropriate.
As mentioned before, engagement party gifts aren’t always necessary, so you can remove any pressure from wondering what to give at an engagement party. However, it is common these days for guests to bring gifts to an engagement party. Usually something sentimental and small that the couple will appreciate. It doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate; there is still the wedding for that. If you are completely at a loss on what to take to an engagement party, take a clue from their wedding registry if they already have one. This can give you some insight into what they might like and happily receive.
Small and sentimental gifts for an engagement party could be anything from a lovely flower bouquet to a simple congratulatory card or even a gift card for a lovely couple spa session. There is no strict rule on engagement party etiquette for guests. Should you decide to splurge on something large and elaborate, depending on your relationship with the couple, this might not be a bad idea either. What matters in the end is that you are there to show your support of their union and you all have a lovely time together. After all, time is the most precious gift anyone can give.
An engagement is an important milestone in the life of a couple, and being able to celebrate this with them is a gift all on its own. If you are considering a bridal box subscription for the couple, you could customize it in a way that the first box gets delivered around the time of the engagement. This could be another creative option for an engagement party gift. The type of gift is not set in stone.
So, whether your friends are having a black-tie event or a laid-back party at home, you do not have to show up empty-handed. From a budget-friendly and sentimental gift to something larger and perhaps more elaborate. In the end, the engagement party gift etiquette depends on you and how you would like to express your love for the couple and this milestone in their lives. Essentially, as long as you show up and congratulate them, letting them know how happy you are to celebrate with them, then it’s all good.
In essence, be flexible, with no pressure. Kick back, have fun and celebrate with your friends. Your engagement gift etiquette should be one that is flexible, affordable, and sentimental as a way of saying, I love you and I am here for you.
