Q: How should we tell everyone about our engagement?
A: Tell your families first. Tell your parents privately. If you or your fiance have children, tell them as soon as possible. You may want to phone or write close friends or relatives.

Q: Whose parents make the first call to get acquainted?
A: It is traditionally the groom's parents that initiate contact. They can invite the bride's parents for drinks, dinner, at home or at a restaurant. You and your fiance can also arrange a meeting or get-together.

Q: When should we ask people to serve as attendants?
A: You can ask people when you announce your engagement, thereby not leaving anyone in suspense, or you ask later, during your planning. Remember to be clear about duties and cost.

Q: Who hosts the engagement party?
A: The bride's parents have the option of hosting the first party, but it is possible that the groom's parents and even the bride and groom may want to host an additional party.