Start at the Beginning
The first step to planning a last minute engagement party is to figure out what needs to be done. While this may sound basic, by rushing off to gather decorations, invitations, and make food arrangements, you will waste valuable time and money on things you may not even need. By spending some precious time creating a plan, you can combine errands, enlist some help, and plan your budget. Take a serious look at finding another family member or friend who can share both the duties and the costs.Last Minute Engagement Party Guest List
The guest list should include close friends and family of both the bride and the groom. This aspect can be a little tricky, as you don't want to step on toes or hurt anyone's feelings, but keeping the guest list small and intimate will help you both financially and with your planning duties. The best way to verify you have included those closest to the bridal couple is to run your list by them or a sibling. Add whomever the bride and groom feel is appropriate and delete those guests who will not attend due to travel or other issues.Quick Engagement Party Locations
Once you know how many guests you will be working with, it is time to find a location which can comfortably accommodate everyone. Your own living room is the best choice when faced with a time crunch, but the backyard of a family member, a beach or public park can also work. Look for locations which will allow everyone a chance to relax and mingle. This party is about letting two families begin the process of blending into one. Fancy decorations and formal locations are not necessary and can lead to a stuffy party where everyone feels restricted. A casual atmosphere with a relaxed ambiance is at the very heart of this party.Quick and Easy Engagement Party Invitations
With your list organized and your location decided, invitations are easy. Wording and graphic images are available to design your own work of art and a fast option is to use the templates already designed by professionals for you. Once you have your design, simply print your invitations on your home printer and they can be in the mail the next day. Engagement parties do not need to follow any theme or color choices for the wedding, so feel free to design something simple or extravagant.Last Minute Engagement Party Foods
The last step is the food and beverages you will serve your guests. Planning the party for the hours between two and six in the afternoon will keep your food choices under control. No one will expect a full meal at those times and you will be free to serve a lighter fare of appetizers, finger foods and nibblers. Grocery stores offer prepared meat trays, vegetable platters and cookie plates. Call the deli department to find out what types of trays can be provided and the costs. All your foods can be handled with one stop and no kitchen chores on your part.The main focus of an engagement party is the bridal couple. Elaborate decorations, fancy foods and entertainment are not necessary for this party. Focus on providing an easy and relaxed gathering of friends and family in honor of a couple taking the first steps toward marriage. There will be plenty of time and opportunity to show off your fancy party planning skills when the bridal shower rolls around.
