How Your Newly-Engaged Bestie Actually Wants to be Celebrated

Photo: Brigit Cheshire via Bridal Bliss

Surround her with excitement. "Be genuinely excited for her! If you're single (or in a relationship that is not yet at the marriage stage), sometimes it can be a shock for your bestie to get engaged before you. If your feelings are anything less than ecstatic, put them aside and be sure to celebrate the joy of the news right along with your BFF." —Alexandra Denniston, Owner and Lead Planner, Eventlightenment Planning

Ask. "Ask your BFF how she'd like to be celebrated. Nowadays, newly-engaged couples are charting their own course. They may want low-key for the entire process, or they may want it all. As excited as you are, make sure you are celebrating them in the way they feel most comfortable." —Elizabeth Lutz, Elizabeth Lutz Boutique Design & Event Planning

A touch of well-being. "From the moment of the engagement, to the countdown to the big day, to the cherished moments afterwards, it's important to be there for your bestie and make it as intentional of a process as possible. A few things that come to mind for tangible gifts are a wedding journal and planning guide, a luxurious candle, a meditation set, a wedding planning guide, and a wedding emergency kit. To make it as easy as possible, we've gathered all of these items (and more!) in our Wedding Wellness Box. Don't forget to celebrate the art of well-being as your bestie embarks on this beautiful journey of love and commitment." —Kristin Sullivan, Founder, The Bridal Retreat

Photo: Albany Katz Photography via Feathered Arrow Events

Listen. "After you get engaged, there can be a whirlwind of emotions, from excitement to stress. One of the best ways to celebrate your newly-engaged bestie is to be a listening ear or shoulder while they process all that has happened. Encourage them to take it slow and share helpful resources that you may come across." —Taylor Brione Ballard, CWP, Experiences By Taylor Brione

Rest and relaxation. "Engagements are exciting events for anyone, especially your BFF! But before you fully jump ahead into the festivities or start planning the bachelor/bachelorette party, remember that the engagement process can also be overwhelming, and sometimes the best way to celebrate your bestie is to take a step back and schedule some R&R time amongst the exhilaration. A spa day with the girls, mid-day mani/pedi, or even an evening to help take some wedding tasks like stuffing and stamping save-the-dates can be the perfect way to support your BFF and make sure they truly feel celebrated during such an exciting time." —Ari Busch, Operations Manager and Lead Planner, Bridal Bliss

Send a thoughtful gift. "Hooray — your best gal pal just got engaged! Sending a thoughtful gift is always a fun way to be celebrated, like a custom ring box, customized mug with her future last name, or even a ring dish with her future initials. Anyway you choose to celebrate your BFF, make sure to keep their personality in mind." —Casey Stamouli, Owner and Lead Planner, Casey & Co. Events

Photo: Move Mountains Co. via Casey & Co Events