Telling everyone

As an engaged couple, you'll be keen to tell as many relatives and friends as possible your good news. Compile a list and then decide whether you wish to inform them by visit, letter, telephone, e-mail or at a celebratory party. If you wish to make an additional, more formal announcement, it's traditional for the bride's parents to announce the news in a local or national newspaper. We show you how in the two examples below.

Of course, the hippest couples announce their engagement on the Internet, so that friends and family around the world can access the announcement and see pictures of the couple together.

Wording for a local newspaper

Mr. and Mrs. Trevor Jones of Midsummer Cottage, Norton, Norfolk are delighted to announce the engagement of their daughter Felicity Jane to Mark Edward, son of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Shaw of Kingsbridge, Devon.

Wording for a national newspaper

The engagement is announced between Mark, younger son of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Shaw of Kingsbridge, Devon, and Felicity Jane, only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Trevor Jones of Norton, Norfolk.

Engagement parties

Holding an engagement party is very much a matter of personal choice. You may prefer to keep your celebrations to a romantic dinner for two or a special holiday together and leave celebrating with friends and family for the wedding itself.

Alternatively, you might want a great big party.

If you do decide on an engagement party this is often held at the bride's parent's house, or maybe in a local restaurant or venue. Guests may bring gifts but these are usually small and personal, rather than gifts for the home.