Engagement season is an exciting time, filled with celebrations leading up to the big day. If you’ve received an invitation to an engagement party, you’re likely thrilled to celebrate the happy couple. But one question might be on your mind: Are Engagement Party Gifts necessary?
The simple answer is no, engagement gifts are not mandatory. However, bringing a gift is a thoughtful gesture that the couple will surely appreciate. As wedding planner Oniki Hardtman of Oh Niki Occasions wisely notes, “Personally, I never show up to a celebration without a gift in hand as it shows gratitude and appreciation for their thought to include you.” Even a heartfelt, handwritten card expressing your best wishes is a meaningful way to show your support and excitement for their upcoming marriage.
To guide you through the nuances of engagement party gifting, we’ve compiled essential etiquette tips and creative gift ideas.
Understanding Engagement Party Gift Etiquette
While weddings often come with established gift registries and expectations, engagement parties have a more relaxed approach to gift-giving. Here’s what you need to know about navigating engagement party gift etiquette:
Is Bringing a Gift Expected?
No, it’s crucial to reiterate that engagement party gifts are not obligatory. Your presence and heartfelt congratulations are already a wonderful gift. However, if you feel inclined to bring a token of celebration, it will undoubtedly be a welcomed gesture by the engaged couple. It’s a lovely way to express your joy and support as they embark on this new chapter.
How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Party Gift?
Unlike wedding gifts, where guidelines sometimes suggest spending amounts based on your relationship to the couple or the cost per plate, there are no set rules for engagement party gift budgets. The amount you spend is entirely discretionary and should align with your personal budget and comfort level.
As Hardtman advises, “If deciding to bring a gift, it is completely discretionary how much you would like to spend on it.” A thoughtful gift, regardless of price, is always more meaningful than an extravagant gesture that strains your finances. Whether it’s a small, heartfelt item or a more generous present, the sincerity behind your gift is what truly matters.
Thoughtful Engagement Party Gift Ideas
If you’ve decided to bring a gift, you might be seeking inspiration. Here are some popular and thoughtful engagement party gift ideas, ranging from practical to sentimental:
Monetary Gifts
While it might seem unconventional to some, cash or gift cards are increasingly becoming acceptable and appreciated engagement gifts. “In our experience, money is not only an acceptable gift but a much appreciated one,” Hardtman points out. Wedding planning and the wedding itself can incur significant costs, and a monetary gift can provide valuable financial support for the couple as they begin their journey towards marriage. It can contribute to wedding expenses, honeymoon funds, or even help them start building their life together.
Toasting Flutes: A Classic Keepsake
Toasting flutes are a timeless and elegant engagement gift. They are not only beautiful but also symbolic, representing celebratory toasts throughout their marriage, starting with their wedding day. Hardtman suggests, “We very often recommend a classic set from Tiffany’s because everyone loves receiving gifts in their signature blue box, or having a special set of well-designed Champagne flutes monogrammed with their initials or wedding date (if set).” Personalized flutes add an extra touch of thoughtfulness, making them a cherished keepsake for years to come.
Travel Accessories for Destination Weddings
If the couple is planning a destination wedding or honeymoon, travel-related gifts can be incredibly practical and appreciated. Matching leather passport holders, luggage tags, packing cubes, or monogrammed jewelry cases are thoughtful presents that cater to their travel plans. These gifts are both useful and stylish, adding a touch of luxury to their travel experiences.
Wine or Champagne: A celebratory beverage
Bringing a bottle of champagne or wine is a classic and always well-received gift for an engagement party. It’s a celebratory gesture that aligns perfectly with the occasion. Choose a bottle that suits the couple’s taste – perhaps their favorite label, a vintage year, or something special to enjoy during the party or save for a later date during their wedding planning process. As Hardtman suggests, “Champagne to enjoy during the celebration, or a more rare bottle of wine or bubbles to be enjoyed at a later time during their next few months of planning,” is always a great choice.
Handwritten Card: Sentimental and Sincere
For a heartfelt and budget-friendly option, a handwritten card is always a meaningful engagement gift. Express your genuine happiness for the couple and share your excitement for their future together. A few sincere words of congratulations and well wishes can go a long way in conveying your support and love. This personal touch is often more valuable than an expensive present.
Couples Massage: An Experience to Relax and Unwind
Experiences often make wonderful and memorable gifts. A couples massage is a thoughtful present that allows the engaged pair to relax and de-stress amidst the often-hectic wedding planning process. “Couples that love experiences over things would surely appreciate a couples massage for times when planning can get a little stressful,” Hardtman recommends. Consider gifting them a spa day or a gift certificate to their favorite local spa, giving them a chance to unwind and reconnect.
Personalized Gifts: A Unique Touch
Personalized gifts add a special and unique touch to your engagement present. Consider monogrammed kitchen items like cutting boards, custom journals, or a personalized print that reflects their shared interests or style. A cake serving set, perhaps engraved with their initials or wedding date, is another classic and enduring personalized gift that they can use when they cut their wedding cake and for anniversaries to come.
The Most Important Gift: Your Presence and Congratulations
Ultimately, whether you choose to bring an engagement party gift or not, remember that your presence and sincere congratulations are the most valuable gifts you can offer. Take the time to celebrate with the couple, express your joy for their engagement, and wish them well on their journey to marriage. And don’t forget to thank the hosts for including you in this special pre-wedding celebration.
