Time to Pop The Bubbly! It's Engagement Party time!

With the ring on your finger, and a fiance by your side, it is time to have an engagement party! Historically, it was the Bride’s parents who would host this event, but as times are changing, there are certainly other options, including the couple hosting the party themselves. Now, it is important to take into consideration that if you are looking to host your own, you are responsible for footing the bill. We have the full breakdown of who should be in attendance, what makes the event so memorable, and some ideas and inspiration for all!

When Should It Happen: Generally this party takes place within the first few months of being engaged, and possibly once you have started the planning process.

Who Should Be Invited: All of your closest Family and Friends of course! For many, this is the first time both families will be coming together and getting to know each other. As a general guideline, those invited will then be invited to your wedding.

**A great idea is to hold off on telling everyone the date of the wedding until the Engagement Party, and let that be a special announcement!

Where to Have the Party: Depending on who is throwing the party, the location may vary. Some couples choose to have a catered dinner in their home, while others rent out a restaurant or small venue to accommodate numbers. We love the idea of having a romantic dinner at a special restaurant or even hosting a brunch for everyone to enjoy.

What to Wear: Depending on the location, many Brides stick with wearing traditional wedding white, and have the Groom's matching in formality. If you are having a specific dress code, please ensure to make note of this when inviting guests.

How to Make it Memorable

It is all in the personal details here! This is a gathering of all your closest loved ones to share in the excitement and anticipation of your upcoming nuptials. It is extremely important to reflect your personalities. Be it a laid-back setting, or an extravagant soiree, be sure to stick with the theme. We came across Promise Me Chocolates, and these perfectly designed diamond-chocolates are just the right amount of sweet to send your guests on their way.

Be sure to include photos of you two together - perhaps from the time you started dating until now, and a guestbook. Years from now it is lovely to look back at the kind words your family and friends have to say about your upcoming nuptials. We are totally in love with the idea of a video-guest book option to have those voices with you forever. Videobooth is an affordable way of capturing these moments!

Local Venues

Vito's in Olde Walkerville is the perfect location to get everyone together in their party room, which comfortable accommodates 50-60 guests. The good food, private bar, and great atmosphere make this an elegant choice for your engagement party. They also cater events, so if you choose to have the party at your home, you can still enjoy all of those amazing flavours!

For a smaller summer gathering, BREW Windsor offers a rooftop terrace perfect for guests to mingle and enjoy some craft beer and tasty snacks, while enjoying the architecture of this 100-year-old original Hiriam Walker building. A low-key vibe and laid back setting make this a great spot for your special event.

Another wonderful venue option would be at a local winery, such as Oxley Estate Winery where guests can sip local wines, enjoy live music, and savour delicious eats. The backdrop for your event will be their barn, built in 1920, along with their sprawling grounds and gardens - a very romantic venue complete with outdoor lights.

No matter where you choose to host your engagement party, be sure to specify in invitations the dress code, and perhaps directions if the venue is not somewhere most have been before. This is such a fun time in your lives - be sure to sit back and enjoy the moment, and take lots of photos!