'Tis the season of mince pies, waiting for snow (that will never arrive in my experience), and yule-type gatherings! As the Christmas and New Year season approaches, the air is filled with cosy vibes and excitement, making it the perfect time for proposals.
A 2021 survey by Brides.com found that 18% of couples in the UK got engaged over the Christmas period. This makes the Christmas season the most popular time of year for engagements in the UK, followed by Valentine's Day (16%) and the summer months (15%).
Whether you think a proposal might be on the cards or you're gearing up to pop the question, this blog provides essential reading. Announcing your engagement is a moment to cherish, and I'm here to help you make it as memorable as the proposal itself!
The social media announcement:
In this digital age, it's no surprise that many choose to share their joy on social media. Before you tap that "post" button, here are a few tips to keep in mind. First, think about the timing. Make sure close family and friends hear the news directly from you before it goes public. Then, craft a heartfelt post that reflects your personalities and style, and don't forget to use the perfect engagement hashtags to capture all those lovely moments.
Engagement photo sessions:
Consider having an engagement photoshoot. It's not just about capturing your love (and the ring); these photos can also be used creatively to announce your engagement (or even on your Save the Dates). Share a series of teasers leading up to the big reveal, or create a stunning photo collage that tells your unique story.
Engagement parties and gatherings:
Engagement parties are a fantastic way to celebrate this special milestone. Whether it's a cosy family dinner at home, a rustic affair, or an elegant soirée, working with a stationery designer will let you create beautiful invitations, menus, and place cards that complement the setting perfectly. You can also use this as an opportunity to dive into learning about guest lists and table planning!
The art of the engagement announcement card:
Bringing tradition and creativity together, engagement announcement cards are a special way to share your happiness. You can opt for a classic design or let your personalities shine through with unique, personalised cards. Your stationery designer can work with you to craft the perfect engagement announcement card, while a calligrapher can add a touch of sophistication with beautifully handwritten envelopes.
Formal engagement announcement:
Announcing Our Engagement
It is with great joy that we, [Person A] and [Person B], have decided to take this beautiful journey together.
[Person B] proposed on [Date] in a truly special moment that we will cherish forever. We look forward to celebrating this wonderful occasion with our dear family and friends.
[Person A] & [Person B]
Casual engagement announcement:
We're Engaged!
Guess what? [Person A] popped the question on [Date], and we couldn't be happier.
We're excited to share this special moment with you and wanted to spread the good news. The wedding planning is underway, and we can't wait to celebrate with all of you.
Stay tuned for more details, and we hope you can join us on our big day!
[Person A] & [Person B]
Engagement announcement etiquette:
While getting engaged is one of life's most exciting milestones, there are still some tips to keep in mind to keep everyone in your family and social circles happy. Sharing your engagement news with different groups of people can be a delicate matter. First and foremost, make sure your immediate family and closest friends hear the news directly from you. Then, consider how to approach your extended family, colleagues, and acquaintances. You might want to host a small get-together for close friends and family and send personalised engagement announcements to those who are further away.
Bonus Section: Top tips for a Christmas proposal
The Christmas season offers many backdrops for a memorable proposal. If you're planning to pop the question during this festive time of year, here are some ideas to make your proposal extra special:
Personalise your proposal:
Think about your partner's interests and favourite holiday traditions. Personalise your proposal to incorporate these elements, whether it's a favourite Christmas carol playing in the background or a location that holds sentimental value.
Plan ahead:
The holiday season can be busy, so plan your proposal well in advance if you're thinking about proposing at a restaurant or a special venue. Make reservations early to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
Create a winter wonderland:
If you're proposing outdoors, enhance the setting with cosy blankets, twinkling lights, and a warm beverage. A winter wonderland scene will make the moment even more memorable.
Add a festive touch:
Incorporate holiday elements into the proposal, like decorating a Christmas tree together or unveiling the ring in a festive ornament. These touches will make the proposal feel even more magical.
Embrace the spirit of giving:
Consider gifting your partner a special Christmas ornament or keepsake that symbolises your engagement. It's a beautiful way to commemorate the occasion every year.
Include loved ones:
The holiday season is all about family and togetherness. If you're comfortable with it, consider involving close family and friends to witness and celebrate the proposal.
Keep it a surprise:
Maintain an air of mystery around the proposal. Surprise your partner with a heartfelt, unexpected moment that they'll treasure forever.
Be mindful of timing:
Choose a moment when you both feel relaxed and in the holiday spirit. Don't rush the proposal; take your time to savour the moment.
Practice your speech:
Before you propose, practice what you want to say. Speak from the heart and express your feelings, making the moment even more touching.
Capture the moment:
Consider enlisting a professional photographer or having a trusted friend discreetly capture the proposal. These beautiful, candid shots will be cherished memories for years to come.
Enjoy the celebration:
After the proposal, take some time to enjoy the moment together before sharing the news with the world. You don't get engaged every day, and it is, first and foremost, an expression of love and commitment between the two of you!
Announcing your engagement is an important step on the journey to marriage. Whether you choose to make a grand announcement on social media, capture your love through a stunning photoshoot, celebrate with an engagement party, or go the traditional route with announcement cards, remember that it's all about sharing your happiness with those closest to you.
As we approach the holiday season, with its promise of new beginnings, my wish for you is that your engagement announcement be as memorable as the moment you said "yes." And if you want to do that with your very own amazing engagement announcement card, you can get in touch with me here.
Whether you're the one proposing or the one being proposed to, I hope these creative ideas and etiquette tips help you navigate the excitement of announcing your engagement!