Engagement Party

honeypup

Hello! I'm just starting so I'm a bit overwhelmed right now. Inlaws want an engagement party. Any thoughts? Buffet, 100 - 120. Let's keep it reasonable: $40 - $60 per person.

carolemb

Traditionally someone from the wedding party(bride's parents), a family member or a close family friend hosts it. My Mom did research on this and I've never really seen it done any other way. Personally, I really don't think you should have to pay for it. You're paying for the wedding!! a much larger expense.

honeypup

You're sooooo reading my mind, but my parents are living out of the country and won't be back for a year. Hate to ask them to pay for it when they can't attend so if his parents want one, I'll be the giver. I KNOW they aren't going to offer to foot the bill. They're already complaining and the true expense will be on my side as we all know.

mjlav1901

If your in-laws want you to have an engagement party, they can feel free to throw it for you.  An engagement party doesn't necessarily have to be so expensive.  When my in-laws threw mine, it was just at their house in the yard.  Everyone got dressed up nice but we just had finger foods, a keg, and a few bottles of wine, and it was simply a blast.  And according to proper etiquette (not that we give a crap about that anymore these days), you don't throw a party for yourself, just like you wouldn't throw your own shower.  You are already undoubtedly spending a ton of money on your wedding...if they want you to have another high-priced party, they can at least help out with paying for it. 

carolemb

I agree! 

ejheart

I agree, if they want one then they (or some of their close friends) should be willing to throw it for you, and I think it's perfectly fine for you to tell them that! Just let them know that you've asked around and heard that it's not considered proper to throw one for yourselves and I'm sure they'll understand. If they're worried about costs then I'm sure they'll just decide to give up on the idea...but I do agree that it can probably be done as a casual thing and doesn't have to be over-the-top expensive..