Ask The Celebration Advisor:
I am the mother of the bride and would like to throw a party so I can get to know the groom's family and my daughter's friends better. It would be an engagement party; however, I think it is too close and they have been engaged too long to call it that. The wedding is August 28, and she has been engaged since Oct. 24. What should I call this party? I am sending invites out this week and need a catchy name. Can you help me with this?
–Thanks Carolyn
Celebration Advisor Reply:
Carolyn,
Congratulations on your daughter's engagement. Also, we here at Wedding and Party Network would like to extend a pat on the back for making an effort to bring the two families together. I agree that it is a little too late to host an engagement party; however, a wedding shower is still completely appropriate.
This doesn't have to be a formal shower. These days, wedding showers are taking on a relaxed feel and becoming more of a celebration. Sure, the traditional showers still exist–and for good reason, but casual get-togethers are increasingly becoming a popular alternative.
I do not know the age of your daughter or the proposed guests, but I will assume that many of your daughter's friends will be in attendance who fit into a younger age demographic, making a casual gathering even more appropriate. Also, a relaxed event will encourage guests to mingle and converse, achieving your goal of them getting to know one another.
If you are planning to host the event at your home, I suggest having an outdoor party, perhaps a cookout. Gifts would be optional, and attire would be casual. A backyard space, patio or deck would be perfect. Many take this opportunity to host a tropical-themed event, but the options are endless. Have plenty of food and organized groups of seating, so that guest will naturally feel inclined to speak to one another. Several small groupings of three or four chairs and a few end tables to hold plates and drinks would be ideal.
Another great option would be to host an event at a hip restaurant, where the clientele's demographic matches that of your guests, assuming again, of course, that several of your daughter's friends will be in attendance. If not, pick a more laid-back restaurant that suits more of your guests' tastes. By going out, you wouldn't have to worry about cooking, and you could place more of a focus on making connections among guests.
Reserve a small room or a table and order a few appetizers to get started. Call ahead and create a mixed drink designed for the guests of honor. It could be a play on their names, a trip they made, or tie into their engagement story. Getting guests in the mood for a night out will put them at ease and stir up conversation. Themes are still appropriate; however, keeping it young and fun would be your best bet.
As for a catchy name, I don't have enough information to come up with something incredibly specific. Although, putting as little pressure as possible on your guests to adhere to a theme or activity will put them at greater ease. Perhaps this is the time when a simple invitiation would best be put to use. Bring your families and friends together, include great food and drinks and a few activities, such as sharing favorite stories, to bring on the laughs. You will be surprised at how far great food and a relaxed atmosphere will go to bring people together!
This Celebration Advisor Post is sponsored by South Bend, IN, caterers.
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