Is it normal to buy an engagement present?

Question

Going to an engagement party tonight and have bought a card. Would you buy a present as well? Thanks.

Answer 1

No, it is not normal. Maybe flowers for the bride.

Answer 2

Never!  If you want to get them a present then wait for the wedding.

Answer 3

No.  The engagement party is not a gift giving occassion.  A congratulatory card is just fine.

The wedding itself and the shower are gift giving occassions.

Answer 4

if i were you i would give them a card and maybe flowers for the bride. because it maybe wierd to give him a gift!!

Answer 5

i looked into this thoroughly when i had an engagement party and got mixed answers.  etiquette seems to be that gifts are not part of an engagement party.  they'll be getting enough at the shower and wedding and this is supposed to be a happy "we're engaged" announcement to celebrate.  however, the one i went to was a pretty fancy affair in a nice restaurant.  so i brought a gift.  i'm glad i did.  but not everyone did.  is it informal or fancier?  to be safe how about a bottle of wine???  or champagne??? i think that's a good safe bet, you got something but it's not over the top.

Answer 6

Yes, I always do. I think it's expected.

Wow, after reading the posts above I am in shock. If someone showed up at a party in my circle friends without a gift it would look really bad.

Answer 7

Cards are very nice and a nice keepsake, but all engaged couples are going to be planning a wedding, instead of buying them a gift, why not suggest in your card that you would like to contribute to their wedding, whether it be the catering bill, cake, invitations, travellers cheques for the honey moon. It not only shows that you have thought about it, it also gives you that year or so before they marry to save and help xx

Answer 8

No the card is fine

Answer 9

I just got Engaged so i hope so :)

Added 19/7

I have just sent invites for my party and everybody is asking me what i want for a gift so i'm only guessing here in the UK its traditional, i didnt realise but who cares bring on the gifts :)

Answer 10

No, wait for the wedding. Bring food or some kind of drink, if you must bring something.

Answer 11

No, you being there to support is fine. My sister is mad at us because we didn't throw her an engagement party....(we don't like the guy)

Answer 12

A card is perfectly fine. Gifts are for weddings, not engagements.