Backyard BBQ
If laid-back fun is what the couple is all about, then a backyard BBQ is the way to go. Set up some tables decorated with natural elements, such as leaves, branches and flowers from the garden, and add candles to create a beautiful glow if the party goes on well after the sun sets. Or, for something a little more elaborate, pick a theme and go with it — a country hoedown, a beach party or even a carnival. Once you've set the mood, fire up the grill and cook up all your faves.
Have fun with your invitation — we love the old-time invite from minted.com (pictured second from left). As guests arrive, offer a cool glass of lemonade (second from right) — and yes, you can spike it! Don't forget to take advantage of the great outdoorts by incorporating your trees and plants as part of the decor. Plus, send guests home happy with a customizable bag full of delicious caramel corn (far left).
Photos courtesy Liz Banfield and Getrude & Mabel Photography
More Ideas:
► Cocktail Party
► Classic Brunch
► Surprise Party
► Traditional Family Dinner
Cocktail Party
Is the newly engaged couple a pair of night owls who love to party all night long? Rent out a club or turn your home into a trendy lounge and host a fun cocktail party. Make sure your bar is well stocked with champagne, wine and fun drinks. Set up a dance floor (use your imagination!) and a few cool lighting options. Keep the party going all night long with great music.
Start with an invite that sets the tone, such as this version from weddingpaperdivas.com (pictured second from left). Send your family and friends home with a drink mix from weddingstand.com (far left) that reminds them of your amazing engagement fete.
Photos courtesy Socialite Studios and Peter Silvia Studio
More Ideas:
► Backyard BBQ
► Classic Brunch
► Surprise Party
► Traditional Family Dinner
Classic Brunch
Keep the celebration simple with a Sunday brunch. Set out an assortment of the couple's favorite breakfast foods and let guests mingle while they drink their morning coffee or sip a delicious mimosa. Don't be afraid to experiment with unique display options, but be careful not to go overboard with extravagant décor — just mix in a few potted plants with the platters of food.
Send out an elegant invite, like this lotus-inspired version from weddingpaperdivas.com, to set a classy and slightly formal tone (pictured far right), and leave guests feeling inspired with a personalized tin of tea from beau-coup.com (far left.)
Photos courtesy of Elegant Affairs and Sherman Chu.
More Ideas:
► Backyard BBQ
► Cocktail Party
► Surprise Party
► Traditional Family Dinner
Surprise Party
Maybe the couple has kept mum about the engagement so that they can announce it in person to their beloved friends and family members. Ask if they'd want to surprise guests with the big news at an engagement party! Invite everyone to the celebration but keep mum about what it's all about. The couple's big reveal can be as simple as an announcement or as elaborate as creating a movie re-enacting the proposal.
Start by hinting at the wedding palette by choosing flowers and (yummy!) favors in the same color family. Announce the news in grand fashion — a big toast always works well — and provide delicious edibles you plan on serving on the big day, but in pint-size portions!
Photos courtesy Kenzie Shores Photography, Giraffe Photography and Rachel McGinn.
More Ideas:
► Backyard BBQ
► Cocktail Party
► Classic Brunch
► Traditional Family Dinner
Traditional Family Dinner
Want something a little more intimate? A traditional family dinner is the way to go — what better way to celebrate the big news than with a room full of family and close friends! Make reservations at a favorite restaurant or make it a potluck dinner at someone's home.
Double your invite's value (this one is from minted.com) by including a drink recipe--perhaps the signature cocktail you'll be serving at your wedding. Create an über-romantic setting by setting up a few twinkling lights (or asking the restaurant to scatter a few low-flame votives around the table). For extra personal touches, try serving the couple's favorite foods or cooking some family classics.
Photos courtesy of Giraffe Photography, Annie X Photographie and Feastivities Events.
More Ideas:
► Backyard BBQ
► Cocktail Party
► Classic Brunch
► Surprise Party