We are being pressured by the mother of the groom to have an engagement party for our newly engaged daughter and future son-in-law. The wedding is a ways away, after college graduation and jobs are secured. I say throwing a wedding engagement party now is precipitous, and I would like to wait. Also, which side of the family is responsible for such a party, or can either side initiate it?
A:
Technically, it’s the bride’s family’s prerogative to throw the first engagement party, but that doesn’t mean they have to. It may be a bit early, but on the other hand, since the wedding is so far off, it might be nice to celebrate the fact that the couple is engaged now. The party will mark the occasion and make it official. It doesn’t have to be a huge, formal party — cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in your home would be wonderful. But if you’re still uncomfortable about the timing, it’s completely appropriate to suggest that the groom’s family throw a party now if they wish, and perhaps your family will host one later.
