How to throw an Engagement Party...

...the easy way? Here are my 5 top tips:

1. Keep It Simple - Initially, Mr. Right and I wanted to throw a sushi party. We wanted a Japanese-themed menu where we would serve Japanese coleslaw, teriyaki chicken, soba noodles in miso soup and of course, handmade sushi. We figured that since Mr. Right is 1/4 Japanese, it would be a brilliant set-up. Unfortunately, we realised finding time to do so whilst juggling two busy professional lives (and Starcraft II - He recently started playing this) would be a real challenge. And we wanted to be un-stressed enough to enjoy the company of our friends and be able to mingle instead of sweating over the kitchen.

So for this Saturday, we have decided to order pizza and chicken wings instead. Maybe we're "slumming" it a little but really, who's complaining? (No really, will anyone complain? Stay tuned for Part 2 when I report the outcome of the party!)

2. Watch that Guest List - It's tempting, especially when you're riding on the euphoria of engaged-blissfulness, to invite every other person you know. Firstly, consider the venue of the party (in this case, our rented home) and its potential capacity. Will your guests be comfortable?Second, you don't want to invite two groups of friends who will have trouble mingling. Or invite ex-es by accident. Also, you don't want to invite people you're not going to invite to the wedding. Finally, if it gets too overwhelming, you can always do your engagement party in two instalments instead of one - which is what I'll be doing (well depending on the success of this one of course).

3. Delegate - Don't be afraid to ask your guests to bring something (as long as it's not demanding a gift!) like ice, drinks or snacks. As long as you're providing the main bits, why not? Most of the time, your well-meaning guests would only be too happy to help out. Plus, if your other half seems to have a lot of free time on his hands, do not feel bad when delegating specific tasks to him. Make sure you give him a deadline as well!

4. Plan Ahead - Trying to fit in last minute cleaning and running around can be tiring before the party. Best to plan what needs to be done by what date. In fact, with better planning, you may be able to throw a more elaborate party. Getting more done prior to the date would be helpful as well for the obvious reason - there's less to do on that day. Try to anticipate possible scenarios for e.g. food for Vegetarians, if someone needs to go out on the balcony to smoke - when was the last time you actually cleaned the balcony chairs?

5. Rest Up - It's best to be well-rested before the day so you can be on your best behaviour and entertain your guests! We're playing badminton tonight before our party tomorrow, so hopefully I'm able to take my own advice.

Stay tuned for photos and a report on how the first party went...