I’ve never been happier since getting engaged over the summer of 2013. When I look down at my hand, I still find shock in the fact that I have been given such a powerful gift – not just the pretty ring, but a promise and proposal to marry my soulmate. It’s a joyful feeling and one that ought to be shared with close family & friends. Having an engagement party is such an important milestone in the road to the alter. I encourage all brides out there to throw some sort of party to commemorate the engagement! My family was gracious and so generous to host a holiday themed engagement party last December 2013. It was a joyous occasion and all the details were absolutely gorgeous! My mom sure knows how to set the scene for a spectacular party – from the birch vases holding deep pink roses, pine cones, pomegrante pieces, large burlap bows, ivy garland and wreaths – it was the most beautiful I have ever seen our home. I can’t thank Mom enough for using her creative talent and eye for designing such a breathtaking scene with the help of her friend and floral expert, Karen. Aside from the decor and delicious small bites, the clamor of happy voices and laughs filled the house warmly on a cold winter night – this was the most beautiful site (and sound) of all! Sharing holiday cheer and our engagement news with loved ones who came from near and far was one of the most incredible nights of my life. I can’t thank my family enough for making this evening so special and and giving us something to remember forever. The best part of my night was hearing my dad give a toast – it was his kind and loving words that made me realize how much I love my family… and that yes, I’m really getting married! I love you Mom and Dad.
Guests were welcomed at the door with holiday cheer…
My mom sure knows how to decorate – she framed vintage sailboats photographed in the local harbor of the Long Island Sound waters and displayed them geometrically- WOW…
Yummy finger foods being prepared for the guests – mini hamburgers, bite size crab cakes, coconut shrimp, spinach puffs – to name a few delicious cocktail party bites…
Candles, candles and more candles… lighting up vintage mason jars with a small votive placed over sand. Simple yet stunning. Pomegranate touches in the floral arrangements.
Deep pink roses – romantic and cheerful…
The holidays can’t be complete without a roaring fire to keep us all warm and cozy!
Christmas carol singing dolls – a family and friends favorite… These have been around for years and bring back memories from previous holiday joy shared…Gotta love the dolls!
We created a photograph book of pictures leading up to our engagement. We left the book out with gold/silver markers for friends & family to sign… It was so much fun to read drunken and yet thoughtful notes left after the party was over… Something we will cherish forever!
Peppermint bark desserts… So delicious and festive all at the same time!
My family gave me the best gift of 2013 – a night that I will always remember and cherish. The gift of being surrounded by people we love was priceless. I can’t thank them enough. I wanted to share these gorgeous photos and snapshots of my personal party to give inspiration to other brides, families and friends who may be thinking of throwing an engagement celebration. Happy party planning… and remember: always find time to celebrate life often with the ones you love! Happiness is everywhere and anytime. Until the next lady celebration.