How to Announce Your Engagement!
As soon as he (or she!) has popped the question you may feel rushed to share your news and excitement, but give your engagement announcement just a little bit of thought before you post your cute selfie to instagram!
Tell your Family the news first
Traditional engagement announcement etiquette is that the bride’s parents be the first to be informed of their daughter’s engagement (once the groom had asked for the bride’s parents permission in advance). Second, of course – followed shortly after – is the announcement to the groom’s parents.
If you possibly can, do so in person, and most importantly tell both sets of parents first. Decide whether you can reach them both before announcing the news to others, and either call straight away, or keep your lips sealed until you see them both.
If the parents don’t yet know each other, make plans for them to meet. I suggest to loosen them up a glass of Champagne to do so, and do not discuss wedding guest lists or financial contributions under any circumstances.
Traditionally it was customary for the groom’s parents to invite the bride’s parents over for dinner. If there are any children involved from prior relationships (or ex-spouses) be fair to them and tell them next.
Next, tell your besties!
Don’t leave your BFFs to find out on social-media – through don’t worry – that announcement is coming! Can you get your friends together to pop the bubbles (like, immediately?) As above, if you can’t get them together really really soon, call them to announce the good news. The hardest thing about being engaged is not shouting it from the rooftops, so get the news to the most important people ASAP to avoid hurt feelings! Don’t feel in a rush to choose your wedding party and/or ask your bridesmaids and groomsmen – there’s plenty of time for that!
Before you announce your engagement on social media…
Tell siblings, other close family, and anyone else who won’t see it on social media within the first couple of days. Then, do a final check through your contacts, Facebook messages and anywhere else, to ensure all the most important, inner circle know before you blast a #shesaidyes hashtag! It’s worth it to wait – people get funny about engagement announcements, and will be easily offended if they feel left out.
Finally… Facebook (and Instagram!)
So you’re ready for your phone to start blowing up… go for it. You only get to do this once so give it some thought, so how do you announce your engagement on social media?
First, give your nails some TLC. You’re going to be flashing your digits for all to see, so buff, polish and moisturise away (even better – get a manicure.). Pick up your favourite polish (I suggest a neutral colour so as not to take away from your new bling) and get glossy…
