engagment party questions

[Wagamama]

hi, i'm wondering what people think of engagment parties and what the gift giving policy is. i know that in the Persian and the Chinese cultures, engagment parties are very important. what are other people's opinions?


thanks!!

 

[Kimberle]

I think it depends on where you live. Around here (Metro NYC area), they are quite common.

Most people I know are given money.

I don't really care if people have them or not, or how many parties they have. I have a dollar amount that I will give in total (depending on my relationship to them) and divi it up amoungst all the gift giving "parties".

 

[Pop Daddy]

dont do it, it looks like your trying to get stuff

 

[browneyes]

I don't think I've ever been to one. Is it kinda like a bridal shower in theory? Are there wedding bells in your future, little Sis?

 

[Meriweather]

they're not common here.

Bela are you telling us something

 

[Wagamama]

no, no, no. sadly there is not one in my future right now....

being persian though, if i was getting married, i'd probably have one cause of the 'rents.

 

[bentley483]

Just read about this in the May issue of Good Housekeeping.
Gifts are not required at an engagement party unless a relative would like to pass on a family heirloom. Sometimes, family members (parents/grandparents) may opt to give a gift or money, but it is not expected for unrelated invited guests to give gifts.

 

[Gupsmom]

My BIL and his wife gave us an engagement party. It was low key (steak dinner at their house) but VERY nice. We only invited both immediate familes and we were very clear in stating that there were to be NO gifts.

Truthfully, I had never heard of having an engagement party before, but it was a great way to get both families together and celebrate. Any excuse for a good party!!

Jess

 

[helenabear]

Around here it totally depends on teh situation. Some are more just "family based" and others are all out events. It also depends on the couple if they want one or not. I had a friend who had one, but said "no presents" I can't say there is a "rule" or not for one, but if I am invited and wasn't told anything, I would bring a small gift.

 

[CamColt]

Ive only been to 1, but IMO, I thought it was a bit much in that particular case. Within exactly 1 years time they had an engagement party, a bridal shower, a jack & jill party, then the wedding. I dont think an engagement party is necessary.