My fiance's family wants to throw us an engagement party.. what exactly is that?

Question

I haven't been to many weddings... if they're throwing the party they should pay for it right? We didn't ask for the party.. do people bring gifts? I'm not expecting gifts... what is the purpose?

Answer 1

Yes, typically if they are throwing it, they are paying for it.  An engagement party is to celebrate the couple and the fact that they plan to be married sometime in the near future.  Gifts are optional, although I would not expect them.  

Answer 2

The family is happy to announce the news,they are proud and want to prepare everyone for the upcoming wedding.

  Personally I think it isn't necessary to much time and money, to much of a fuss.

Answer 3

Hi and congratulations on your engagement.  An engagement party is usually hosted by the bride's parents OR the groom's parents.  This is simply a "come to meet" party.  Obviously, there are family members on each side that would like to come and meet you (and your fiance) before the wedding.  It is a very nice gesture that your fiance's parents are wanting to do this.

YES, as with any party that you host, the person hosting this will pay for it.

NO, usually there are no gifts at an engagement party, but some may bring a card.  Some may also choose to bring a gift....but it certainly is not necessary.  If they do, it may be something small.....a bottle of wine, or a gift card.

Good luck!  I hope you have a great party.

Answer 4

If his family offered to throw the party for you, then they are paying. Although I didn't have one, an engagement party is so that family and friends can celebrate your engagement and share their joy. I don't think people bring gifts to this party.

Answer 5

His parents will be paying for this party for you. Some people may bring gifts, mostly sentimental things. Not like the bridal shower where its toasters and Kitchen Aid Mixers.

The party sounds like a very nice gesture. They probably want to introduce you and their son to all of their friends and family as a couple.

Answer 6

Ah...the endless parties thrown for weddings.  I'm getting married in a month, so I know what you are going through.  It is just to formally celebrate the news with friends and family.  If they offered, they should pay and people  usually do bring gifts unless you specify that you don't want them.  It can all get very overwhelming so don't feel obligated to accept if you don't think you want the party.  Just let them know nicely that it isn't necessary.  Otherwise, smile and have fun!  Parents are proud to share this experience.

Answer 7

Yes, if they are hosting the party . . . then they pay for it.

They are obviously happy about the engagement, wanting to share the good news with family and close friends.  They may want to introduce you, if you have not met a lot of their family members and friends already.

If people know it is an engagement party, they may bring gifts.  You say "thank you" at the party, then write them a thank-you note later.  

If people don't know it is an engagement . . . say for example the engagement is being announced to them at the party . . . then no, you will not receive gifts.

Usually there are not a lot of gifts at engagement parties . . . or they are simple ones . . . like a bottle of wine, maybe?

This site may be helpful:

http://www.bwedd.com/CEBride/CEBNewslett...

Answer 8

Have fun!!!  They are obviously very excited.  Yes they pay and people might bring you both a gift.

Answer 9

Let them give you the party

and worry about packing later!

Congrats

Yes, they pay!