Your partner asked, and, of course, you said yes! Congratulations. Being engaged is an exciting season of life. And, yes, we know three of your friends already texted you asking about your engagement party (no rest for the wicked). Even if you knew the engagement was coming, you might not have budgeted for an engagement party. Fortunately, we’re here to help you celebrate this magical milestone with your friends and partner without breaking the bank.

Planning an engagement party on a budget is actually pretty simple, and we’ll walk you through some fabulous ideas and tips to throw the elegant and unforgettable engagement party of your dreams without emptying your wallet.

The easiest way to keep costs in check is by hosting the engagement party somewhere free. The cheapest (freest) possible venues are your home or a close friend or family member's house. A backyard barbecue, garden party, or cozy indoor gathering can be just as charming as — and significantly more intimate than — an extravagant venue, and comes without the hefty price tag. Save your pennies for the wedding venue. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did.

Opt for DIY invitations or digital ones instead of purchasing the expensive kind. Even if you’re married to the idea of having extravagant engagement party invitations, there are free online templates that you can download and print your invitations at home.

Or utilize digital invitations, like Paperless Post, which not only save money but also help reduce waste. Add a personal touch by incorporating your engagement photos or a handcrafted element. For the most casual brides-to-be, a text message to your friends will also do.

Create an elegant ambiance without overspending on decorations. Opt for simple, classic decor: Think elements you might already have lying around like fairy lights, candles, and fresh flowers from the local market.

Mason jars filled with fairy lights can instantly add a touch of romance to your party. Or, use your favorite romantic hardcover books as centerpieces. You can also have your besties over for a DIY craft and movie night the week before.

The engagement party doesn't have to be an extravagant feast. Instead, plan a potluck-style menu where close friends and family bring their favorite dishes to share. Not only does this save you money on catering, but it also adds a delightful mix of flavors to the party.

We can’t emphasize enough how essential pitcher cocktails are going to become on your wedding journey. These big-batch drinks are aesthetic crowd pleasers that also save you a ton of money. Get familiar with your favorite flavors and craft yourself a signature DIY drink. Bonus points if your special cocktail somehow represents you and your partner. These are also often easily translated into mocktails for non-alcohol drinkers.

Set up a DIY photo booth corner with some props and a backdrop. There are loads of photo booth apps out there for tablets and mobile phones. Or, just use the standard Apple Photo Booth application that comes free on your Apple devices. Guests will have a blast capturing memories throughout the event. This serves as both entertainment and a unique way to immortalize the joyous occasion.

Engage your guests with fun and interactive games that celebrate your relationship and love story. From trivia about the couple to charades and love-themed bingo, the internet is practically exploding with free wedding-themed games. We also offer downloadable wedding shower games that are also perfect for an engagement party. Fun games will keep the energy high and the smiles wide.

Create a playlist with your favorite songs and tunes that hold special memories for you and your partner. It adds a personal touch to the party and ensures you have music that resonates with your unique love story.

An intimate gathering of close friends and family can be just as meaningful as a grand affair. Limiting the guest list will not only help you stay within your budget but also allow for more meaningful interactions with your loved ones.

Your mom’s third-best friend from middle school can come to the wedding. The engagement party should be a distinctly lower-key event. Also, keep in mind, anybody you invite to your engagement party, you’re going to have to invite to your wedding. So keep an eye on that guest list to make sure you’re not locking yourself into having a 300-person wedding.

Delegate. Please. If you take nothing else from this article, take this. Throughout your wedding journey, you’re gonna need to get really comfortable with asking people to help you. Don’t do it all yourself. Read that again.

Seriously, don't be afraid to ask for help! Your friends and family would be more than willing to lend a hand in organizing and decorating for the engagement party. Teamwork can create a sense of togetherness and make the event even more special.

Your engagement party is a celebration of love and the beginning of a new chapter in your life. By focusing on personal touches, DIY elements, and the love of your friends and family, you can throw an elegant and heartwarming engagement party on a budget. Remember, it's not about how much money you spend; it's about the love and joy you share with your loved ones during this special moment. Cheers to love, laughter, and a beautiful engagement party that won't break the bank!