Wedding Wire reported that 33% of engagements occur between Thanksgiving and New Year's. If you're basking in the glow of a recent engagement, it's time to start thinking about how to share your happy news. One option is to publish an announcement in the newspaper—call your local paper to inquire about guidelines, deadlines, and fees.
A mailed engagement announcement is the most traditional option; however, it's important to be cautious—only send a card to those who will also be invited to the wedding (and if you've decided on a wedding date, include that information so the announcement can double as a save-the-date card). Another option is to announce your engagement at a party. While the bride's parents traditionally host the couple's first fête, these days, anyone can host the engagement party, and more and more couples are opting to throw the celebration themselves. Here are of some of my favorite engagement announcement cards and party invitations. —Heather Lee