Engagement Announcement Etiquette: A Guide to Sharing Your Big News
Are you planning a proposal or have you recently been proposed to? It’s natural to want to share your joy with the world, but before you hit that post button, it’s important to consider traditional engagement announcement etiquette. Whether you prefer to keep things low-key or shout it from the rooftops, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind to ensure that you’re respectful to your loved ones.
In today’s digital age, the concept of “traditional” etiquette is constantly evolving. Modern couples approach engagements with a sense of intentionality, often discussing rings and even shopping for them together before the proposal. Some couples are even beginning to plan their weddings before officially getting engaged.
To shed some light on post-proposal etiquette, we turned to William Hanson, a London-based etiquette expert and executive director of The English Manner. Hanson offers insights on how to navigate the dos and don’ts of announcing your engagement.
How Long Should You Wait Before Announcing Your Engagement?
Once the question has been popped and the answer is a resounding “Yes!”, it’s only natural to want to share the news right away. However, it’s important to consider how you share this momentous occasion with the world.
Who Should Know First?
According to etiquette, family members should be the first to know about your engagement. Hanson advises that parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and first cousins should be informed before making any public announcements. It’s crucial that immediate family and in-laws do not find out about your engagement through social media. Depending on your family dynamics, consider sharing the news with those who hold a special place in your heart before making a public announcement.
Should You Announce Publicly or Privately?
After informing your closest family members, the choice of when and how to announce your engagement is entirely up to you. Whether you opt for a public post on Instagram, a private message to close friends, or a personal announcement to those you care about, the decision is yours to make.
How Much Should You Reveal on Social Media?
In today’s digital age, social media has become the go-to platform for sharing life’s milestones. When it comes to announcing your engagement online, Hanson suggests following the same guidelines you would in real life. Anything you would feel comfortable sharing with friends in person can be posted on social media. Whether you choose to share a single post or create an elaborate Instagram reel or TikTok video, remember that sharing your engagement online is a form of celebration.
In conclusion, while engagement etiquette may have evolved over the years, the core principles of respect and consideration for your loved ones remain the same. Whether you choose to announce your engagement privately or publicly, the most important thing is to share your joy with those who mean the most to you.
