Engagment Annoucement

It is proper etiquette for the couple to announce their engagement either formally through a newspaper or engagement party or informally to friends and family. However if one or both of the individuals is still legally married it is considered poor form to announce an engagement until both parties are legally free to remarry.

One very traditional way to announce the engagement is through a newspaper announcement which usually appears between two or three months prior to the proposed wedding date. Divorced or widowed individuals may still place an announcement if they.

The announcement is to be clearly written, in exact wording and sent to the society editor of the paper. Some newspapers have submission forms so it is best to contact them directly to place the engagement announcement. If a picture is submitted it is in good taste to have one of the couple. All newspaper announcements should be submitted at the same time so they appear simultaneously.

Engagement Party Etiquette

In traditionally it is the bride's family that gives the engagement party, but if financing and location are barriers it is perfectly acceptable for the groom's family or friends to do so.
The guest list is determined with the host and couple and can be either limited to family and friends or an open house.

The engagement party can be any format, typically however it is a cocktail party. A formal receiving line is not required at the party however, the guests are to be greeted by the hosts and one or both of the engaged couple. No formal toasting is required but often one toast is given by a parent or close friend to the couple's future happiness.