Congratulations you're engaged! You want to scream it from the rooftops and spread the news like wildfire but wait! Before you do, consider these factors so you get it right.
Step one
First thing's first you need to tell your parents. You probably can't wait to shout from the rooftops and tell the world of your engagement, but wait. It is important to first tell both of your parents, in person if possible. As the old saying goes, 'blood is thicker than water' so let the family be the first port of call.
We don't suggest bringing up the issue of money quite yet. Let your parents get used to the idea and soak it in before you rush into the planning process and deciding on budgets and who pays for what.
Next
Now you can let your friends know the exciting news. Nowadays brides find Facebook or MySpace the quickest and most efficient way of announcing their engagement to the masses. However your close friends should receive a friendly phone call or even a visit instead of an electronic message.
Then
The tradition of placing a notice in the local newspaper is still widely used. The clipping is also a great little memento for your album or wedding scrapbook. Most newspapers actually have forms you can fill in to make it easy. The traditional wording goes:
Mr & Mrs Smith of Woolloomooloo, Sydney announce the engagement of their daughter Nicole to Mr Kneale Brown, son of Mr and Mrs Bill Brown of Mosman, Sydney. A December wedding is planned.
The text can be as formal or as informal as you wish. Most importantly make sure you proof read your notice!