10 DIY Engagement Party Ideas for Every Couple (2024)

You said yes! Now, it’s time to share the news—and there’s no better way than with a party.

Don’t worry about brainstorming unique engagement party ideas, as we’ve got you covered. This is your moment to celebrate with your nearest and dearest, unburdened by the pressures that accompany the upcoming nuptials. Unlike the intricate process of wedding planning, an engagement party should be a notably less stressful experience. With weddings turning into marathons, it’s easy to lose steam early in the process. So, before the whirlwind ensues, let’s toast with 10 of our favorite engagement party ideas.

Dinner Party

Rather than fully adhering to the dinner party wedding trend, consider treating your loved ones to an elegant sit-down soirée. Another option would be to invite your close friends to a private dining experience at a restaurant of your choosing. Take it to the next level and collaborate with the staff to curate a personalized, set menu—or simply open a tab if you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe.

Pool Party

Who doesn’t love a good poolside bash? Guests can take a dip, soak up the sun, and lounge by the water. A theme is always fun: opt for a tropical aesthetic, complete with crowd-pleasing margaritas and piña coladas. Keep things refreshing with boozy popsicles as a sweet treat, and don’t forget to have some baskets around stocked with sun essentials—think sunscreen, pool towels, and sunglasses.

“I Do” BBQ

The “I do” BBQ is a classic engagement party idea, and one that requires minimal party planning for the couple who prefers a laid-back yet tasteful affair. Ideal for the spring and summer seasons, it’s also easy to tailor to your surroundings, be it an indoor grill, communal rooftop, or a full backyard setup. For co*cktails, keep it simple with spiked lemonade pitchers and a well-stocked beer tub. Don’t forget the ice, and the vegetarian options to balance out the burgers and hot dogs. Add a personal touch with a signature BBQ sauce, french fry bar, or a make-your-own ice cream station. Check out Pinterest for further inspiration.

Costume Party

Halloween isn’t the only time of year you can dress up—and a costume party can also serve as the perfect front for a surprise engagement announcement if you’ve kept it under wraps. If going for full-on costumes isn’t your style, a subtle engagement party theme can be just as lively. Perhaps, a throwback to a Roaring Twenties speakeasy, complete with Champagne towers, a live jazz band, and a list of Prohibition-inspired signature co*cktails. If you feel like donning ’70s threads, a roller disco might be just the groovy ticket; or, for an air of mystery and opulence, a masquerade.

Movie Night

If you’re a pair of film buffs, host a movie night for your entourage. Transform your abode into a home cinema by renting a projector and popcorn machine. You could also make it a pajama-themed party, and encourage your guests to come in comfy PJs.

Whether you opt for an indoor theater or snug, outdoor setup, the ambiance is key. Enhance the cozy feel with a plethora of plush blankets, a wide selection of beverages, and, of course, movie theater candy. Choose an all-time classic or romcom for the main feature, or showcase your own collection of cherished home videos and photos for that extra personal touch. It's the perfect excuse to be cheesy, after all.

Champagne Brunch

A late-morning affair is a particularly chic idea for your engagement party, à la Breakfast at Tiffany's. Serve bottomless Champagne and mimosas, with an indulgent spread of yogurt parfaits, French toast, and Eggs Benedict. Tailor the brunch to your personality and guest list—do you prefer an intimate sit-down brunch or a breakfast buffet? How about an afternoon tea-style brunch instead? In that case, ditch the booze, and treat your guests to an assortment of teas, alongside finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries.

Potluck Picnic

Whether in your own backyard or a local park, a picnic is a wholesome get-together for the low-maintenance couple. Craft a delectable cheese board, adorned with a selection of charcuterie, sandwiches, and lemonade for beverages. Skip the live band; grab your speaker and set the mood with your specially curated Spotify playlist.

To accommodate any dietary restrictions, encourage guests to contribute their favorite finger foods. You can even embrace a Parisian-themed picnic, with an array of fruits and jams, well-paired wines, and madeleines. Or, transport your luncheon to the sun-kissed charm of Positano, with a refreshing Caprese salad, Aperol spritzes, and bougainvillea centerpieces—and don’t forget the limoncello digestif. (However, do make sure you’re prepared with an indoor backup plan in case of unexpected rain.)

co*cktail Party

A co*cktail party proves that glamour need not strain your budget, favoring light bites over a full-course meal. Hire a mixologist to craft a signature co*cktail inspired by the happy couple. The bartender could also offer a co*cktail-making class, and guests can leave with a personal co*cktail-making set as a party favor. Also, you can’t go wrong with a live band.

Glamping Getaway

For a close-knit group of friends, rent out a cabin or a couple of glamping tents for a weekend retreat. A grown-up take on summer camp, you can hike along scenic trails during the day, and when the sun sets, gather around the bonfire to swap nostalgic stories while roasting marshmallows and eating s'mores.

Wine Tasting

For the newly engaged couple seeking an elevated experience, indulge in a wine-tasting escapade with picturesque views. (For beer drinkers, a brewery promises an equally enjoyable outing.) Depending on where you live, you can arrange for a tour bus or an organized winery trail for a day of vineyard hopping. And, should you prefer the comfort of your home, simply hire a sommelier for a private wine-tasting session. Just don’t forget the hors d’oeuvres and cheese.