Announcement of an imminent marriage between two people is always a cause for celebration. Friends and family--upon hearing the great news--will have the urge to bring out that rare bottle of wine stashed only for special occasions, or host a special dinner to revel this happy circumstance. Why not take it to the next level and actually host an engagement party for an official announcement of the wedding?

An engagement party, usually held not later than three months before the wedding day, is not only for celebratory purposes. It is one great way for both families of the marrying couple to meet and get to know each other before the wedding. It can also be one way to help start building bridges between the couple and their entourage and future or prospective godparents. Moreover, the couple can treat this party as a "rehearsal" reception, because through this, they can have the feel and size of the wedding. If you're planning on having an engagement party within or near the metro, here are a few options that you should consider.