When you get engaged, one of the first things you may think about is throwing a big party to celebrate with all your friends and family. But before you start planning, take a step back and consider whether a party is really the best way to commemorate this happy occasion. Here are five alternatives to hosting a traditional engagement party.
1. Have a Picnic in Your Backyard
So you just got engaged, and you want to shout it from the rooftops! Why not celebrate in a unique and special way by having a picnic in your own backyard? Set up a cozy blanket and some delicious snacks, then spend the day basking in your engagement joy. You can play some lawn games like cornhole or bocce ball to make it even more fun. As a bonus, there’s no need to pay for an expensive venue or deal with noisy crowds. Plus, you’ll have fun memories of your backyard forever tied to this special occasion.
2. Spend a Day at the Spa
Trade in the noisy nightclub or crowded restaurant for a day at the spa. Get pampered with a couples massage, spend some time in the sauna or steam room, and indulge in a mani-pedi together. Or, if you’re looking for something more active, try out a yoga class or poolside workout. Celebrating your engagement at a spa allows you to take some much-needed time to relax and rejuvenate before diving into wedding planning. And when all those friends and family members inevitably ask about the celebration, you’ll have lots of glowing post-spa photos to show off!
3. Go Out to Dinner With Close Friends and Family
Why not gather your closest family and friends for a dinner out on the town? This way, you can enjoy each other’s company in a cozy atmosphere, sharing food and telling stories about the upcoming wedding. Plus, there’s no need for extravagant decorations or stress about planning—let someone else handle the cooking and cleaning up for once. If you’re allowed, bring along a bottle of champagne for toasting—you could even break out some sparklers at the end of the meal! So forget about stuffy parties and celebrate your engagement with those who matter most by enjoying a delicious dinner together.
4. Take a Romantic Getaway
One alternative option is to pack your bags and jet off on a romantic weekend getaway with your spouse-to-be. This allows you to start your next chapter together in a more intimate setting and gives you time to unwind and soak up every moment of your newly engaged bliss. Plan out some fun activities together, explore a new destination, or simply enjoy each other’s company by indulging in some much-needed relaxation.
5. Throw a Small Celebration at Your Local Coffee Shop
Consider changing things up by throwing a casual celebration at your favorite cozy coffee shop. You can invite your nearest and dearest for a simple afternoon or evening gathering complete with delicious pastries, specialized drinks, and live music from local performers. It’s budget-friendly, and it allows you to showcase your shared love for the comfortable atmosphere and delicious drinks that only a local coffee shop can provide.
Engagements are a joyous occasion, but sometimes, they come with so much pressure to plan the perfect party that you can forget to enjoy the moment. If you’re looking for ways to celebrate your engagement without throwing a huge bash, we’ve got five great ideas for you! From having a picnic in your backyard to taking a romantic weekend getaway, there’s something for everyone on this list. So take a deep breath and relax—you’ll find the perfect way to celebrate your engagement!
