Congratulations, you're engaged! Now where to start for the party? When it comes to your engagement celebrations, working out what kind of party to have can be a difficult decision. Will it be a casual backyard BBQ, an intimate family gathering with a home cooked meal or a formal three-course dinner?  There are many aspects to consider: the number of guests, your budget, location, the season/climate, and of course, you and your future spouse’s style and tastes. You want to make it memorable (without it outshining the wedding day) so here are 7 ideas to get you started:

1. BBQ/Picnic

This could be a laid back afternoon in your backyard with the future husband to be demonstrating his skills with the tongs and grill or a ‘bring your own dish’ to a beautiful picnic in the park on a sunny Sunday. If you fancied either of these ideas but wanted something more stylish, you could hire catering and enjoy sliders, served with local brews or have high tea in a botanical garden.

2. Home-Cooked Dinner Party

Want something small and intimate with just immediate family? Then maybe this is the option for you! A roast with wine on a wintry night around the dining table, followed by warm conversation in front of the fireplace.

3. Formal Restaurant Dining

Choose your favourite restaurant and enjoy all your best-loved meals in one evening surrounded by your family and friends. A set menu or A La Carte (depending on the size of your guest list) with some music, friendly staff, dessert’s to die for and an excellent bartender.

4. Seafood & Champagne by the Beach

If you like seafood then of course the best location to enjoy it is by the beach. You can make it as casual or elaborate as you’d like, but Spring/Summer would be the ideal time and somewhere that serves fresh, local seafood

5. Cocktails and Canapés

The best venue for this one is a rooftop bar with skyline views. Cocktail attire is a must! A dance floor and an exceptional DJ are also essential. Show your guests you know how to throw a fab party!

6. Mexican Fiesta

Tacos and margaritas! Need I say more? Well, if I must… a Mexican restaurant/bar that has great décor, a variety of tequilas and plays Mexican music are all essential to make sure this party goes off without a hitch! And if you really want to impress organise margarita popsicles, yum!

7. Wine Tasting Tour!

Hire a minibus (along with a driver) and go on an adventure. It’s a great way to get all of your friends and family together.  Plus it’s never hard to find a gorgeous little cottage in wine country  – the perfect place to end a day of wine tasting!