Whether you are throwing your own Engagement Party or someone is having it for you, you will need a nice tight plan. An Engagement Party serves a 3 pronged purpose. Announce the big news, celebrate it and allow the family and friends the opportunity to get to know each other. The tastes and desires of the Couple of Honor will play a large role in the planning of this party. A cocktail party would be appropriate as there will be a toast to the happy couple. Send out invitations as soon as possible so guests can send in rsvp's. Gifts are optional and up to the guests themselves. Now for the decorating. Of course this will involve the theme of marriage with lots of toile. For the party itself the toast and announcement by the "Father of the Bride" will be the highlight! This party could be held in a restaurant or catered at someone's home. Whether a sit down dinner or a buffet, there are many menus to choose from but the dessert will be the highlight and could be an Engagement Cake with a picture of the happy couple on it. Also add other favorites like pastries, cookies, chocolates and ice cream. Even a Chocolate Fountain would be great!