Getting engaged is one of the most exciting times in life! You become obsessed with bridal magazines, and you start Pinteresting in your sleep. Cure that party-planning itch and celebrate your engagement with your closest friends and family. If you’re looking for engagement party ideas at home, look no further. We have the perfect engagement party ideas for the low-key couple!
The Invitation
Remember your engagement party invitation sets the tone for your party, so keep that in mind when you’re choosing one. Whether you’re going for super glam or totally casual, sending paper invitations in the mail or digital invites, we have some adorable ideas for inviting guests to your wedding warm-up.
Make ’em laugh
If you and your fiancé love to laugh, then this invitation idea is perfect! Who doesn’t get a good chuckle at awkward adolescent pictures? Or if you really want to draw a crowd, invite your guests to drink free beer, and of course, celebrate your love story.
Keep it classy
Simple, elegant, and to the point is perfect for the low-key couple. Especially if your family has been hounding you for months about when your partner is going to pop the question! You also can’t go wrong with vintage-inspired invitations, especially if you’re planning a themed engagement party (costume party anyone?).
? Pro tip: Don’t skip this engagement party etiquette and make sure to include whether guests should bring a gift on your invitation!
The Decor
Don’t let planning an engagement party get stressful and use these simple, but still incredibly adorable decor ideas for a delightfully low-key get-together.
Bursting with charm
Balloon decor is always a lively option for any party. They’re classic and beautiful. Just add some floral accents, and you’re set! Choose a classic color like rose gold and immediately up the aesthetic. And what better inspiration for your engagement party palette?
Including a balloon arch is another uncomplicated way to add stunning decor and provide guests with a social-worthy photo opportunity.
Show off
Put your beautiful engagement photos on display in your party decor! Make prints and use twine to wrap them around a tree at your backyard party or use a pallet to hang your already framed photos. Our favorite thing about these cute engagement party ideas is that they’re all super simple and easy to do.
? Haven’t taken your pictures yet? Check out our other blog posts for adorable engagement photo ideas and tips for dressing for your engagement photos.
The Menu
Every low-key couple needs a low-key menu for their engagement party. Keep it simple with buffets, food bars, and dessert tables with snacks and treats that are easy to grab and go. Spend more time mingling with your guests instead of sitting down for a fancy meal.
Set the bar
If you’re expecting a crowd and cooking everything yourself, a buffet is always a great option for an engagement party. Whether it’s a nacho or a build-your-own-burger bar, just line it up and let your guests serve themselves!
Dream up tasty desserts
Stick with the self-serve idea and have creative sweets tables for guests to peruse. A scrumptious s’mores bar is adorable and would be a surefire hit. If it’s a summer soiree, help your guests cool off by hosting an ice cream social. Pre-scoop several flavors of ice cream and let guests create their own flavor combinations. Don’t forget to include lots of topping options!
?? Hire some help! If you want to take the pressure off, bring in some professionals. A caterer can handle all your food prep, or you can book a food truck if you’re planning a low-key outdoor party.
The Games
Take this opportunity to gather all your family and friends and make them participate in a fun activity. From hilarious games to competitive challenges, your guests will love these fun engagement party ideas. And don’t forget party favors and prizes for the big winners!
Get interactive
Fun engagement party games you can do from your couch or around a table are perfect for a low-key couple. Our personal favorite is a round or two of Mad Libs! Turn your love story into an absurd and hilarious tale that will have everyone laughing.
If you’re throwing a backyard party, lawn games are the way to go. Find creative Etsy stores that can customize classic games like giant Jenga or cornhole with your names or photos. Your friends and family can enjoy some friendly competition while getting to know one another before the big day.
Offer fun favors
Don’t let your guests leave your engagement party empty-handed! The best party favors are items that are actually useful or even edible. You can have custom koozies available to keep their drinks cool during the shindig. Or offer personalized candies and mints for a sweet keepsake.
The Entertainment
What’s a party without some fun entertainment? Whether you’re ready to rock out or sit back and enjoy a performance, we have the best entertainment options for your laid-back celebration.
Jam out
If you love live music, a singing guitarist can set the mood with your favorite songs. Or consider a cover band if you’re really wanting to rock n’ roll. If you are looking for background music instead, a classical guitarist or keyboard player would be perfect.
Enjoy a show
Hire a performer like an aerialist or fire performer to mesmerize and entertain your guests. Or book a ballroom or Latin dancer to give lessons and spice up the event – and to practice for the big day! No matter which type of entertainer you choose, your engagement party is sure to be a memorable one.
Planning an engagement party doesn’t have to be overwhelming or stressful. You should have fun putting together your celebration, and we hope these ideas help you do just that! So practice your wedding planning by hosting the perfect low-key engagement shindig. ?
Ready to bring your cute engagement party ideas to life? Book something awesome at GigSalad.
Megan is the Director of Customer Experience at GigSalad and has gained 9+ years of insight on what makes a great event on both sides of the booking process. Her favorite things include books, true crime podcasts, coffee, hiking, puns, and making people laugh.