There is no single correct number of days between a proposal and an engagement party. Many celebrations happen within the first two or three months, while the news still feels fresh and before later wedding events begin. But “soon” should never mean exhausted, financially strained,...

The engagement party guest list looks simple until names begin carrying expectations. Invite too widely and the couple may be committing to a wedding list they cannot afford. Keep it too narrow without discussion and a parent, sibling, or closest friend may feel excluded...