Want to throw an engagement party but don't know where to begin? We've got the how-tos of throwing a wonderful first pre-wedding party from top to bottom.

Why?

Why have an engagement party? Usually the engagement party is thrown to officially announce a couple's engagement and celebrate the announcement. It is given up to two months after it's official, and is the first "public" appearance of a betrothed couple. It's also an opportunity for the couple's parents to meet if they haven't done so already.

Who?

Who throws the engagement party? Tradition says one or both of the couple's parents hosts the bash to celebrate the betrothal, even though today the rules have changed. Since many couples don't live near either of their parents, another relative or close friend can throw the party. Or in this post-milennium age, some couples are choosing to host it themselves, as a way to get friends and family together to celebrate with them.

Who is invited? Usually the soiree is only for close family and friends who are (obviously) invited to the wedding. This is most likely an intimate gathering of intimates who want to share the couple's new joy in a relaxed atmosphere.

Who pays the bill? Whoever is hosting the party picks up the tab, so if you're short on cash you may consider having it at home instead of a bar or restaurant.

What?

What happens at the engagement party? Mostly an engagement party is given so that the parents or close friends of the newly engaged couple can show them how happy they are. Other than that, mostly it's just drinking and eating and enjoying the company.

What do I serve at an engagement party? Traditionally, a pre-nuptial celebration is only for appetizers and imbibing, but use your imagination if you want to do something different. The safest bet is cocktails and party food, but if you want to get more elaborate with a sit-down dinner or seven-course meal, the couple will surely appreiciate it.

What do I bring to an engagement party? This varies, because although gifts are certainly not required or expected at this informal gathering, couples may have already registered, and you may give a gift if you so desire. If you want to give them something, a simple gift like flowers or champagne would be appreciated by the couple.

What toasts are given? Usually there are not a plethora of toasts here (plenty of time for those later on!), but if words of well-wishes are given, it is usually by the father of the bride, and the groom-to-be. Both toasts are usually comprised of how happy they are and how much they are looking forward to the future.

Where?

Where to have the party? Since engagement parties are usually casual cocktail parties, they fit comfortably into a living room, a bar, or a restaurant, but you might want to be more creative. A grill-out in the backyard or a picnic in the park might be more affordable and more fun for the couple.

When?

When do I throw the engagement party? Usually the party occurs between one and two months after the proposal, but anytime after the ring's on the finger is a good enough time to have a party.