Having an Engagement Party

You don't need to have a party - only if you want one.

Old Fashioned Engagement Parties

These can be fun and needn't be too lavish. The advantages are that:

• you get presents (though not usually ones you'd actually want because it's definitely not done to have an engagement list!); and
• it's a good trial run for the wedding because it gives you a chance to check out in advance who's going to behave badly and whether the families get on together in a social situation.

American Style Engagement Showers

These parties are currently popular. The bride has a girly tea party with her friends, who shower her with personal presents or silly household ones. Apparently, rubber gloves with fake jewels on are a current favourite.

Engagement showers can be a nice idea for brides who might feel they've neglected their girlfriends while they've been involved in the early stages of an intensive relationship with their future partner. It's also a good time to sound out girlfriends for potential bridesmaids.