When should engagement party invitations be sent out?

Aim to send invitations four to six weeks ahead. That is the sweet spot for most engagement parties in the UK. It gives guests time to arrange travel, childcare or time off work, without the invitation sitting around so long that people forget to reply.

If your party is a relaxed backyard barbecue or a pub gathering, three weeks is fine. If it is a bigger event, perhaps with a sit-down meal or guests travelling from further away, lean towards six weeks. You can always send a save-the-date by text or email earlier, but the formal invitation should still follow that four to six week window.

Remember that engagement parties are usually smaller and more informal than the wedding itself. You do not need the same lead time as wedding invitations, which often go out months ahead. Just make sure your guests have the date, time, location and any dress code clearly stated. Ask for RSVPs about a week before the party so you can confirm numbers with your venue or caterer.

If you are planning a party around a holiday or a busy local event, give a little extra notice. And if you are hosting it yourselves, you can be more flexible with timing.