• Host a casual engagement party.engagement ring image by jimcox40 from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>
  
  If you are hosting an engagement party for friends or family members, it doesn't have to be an elegant, black tie affair. You also don't have to spend a ton of money on it. Host a casual engagement party where everyone feels comfortable getting to know each other; this is an especially good idea if the bride and groom's families don't yet know each other well. Choose from among many different theme ideas for your casual engagement party.
  
  

Barbecue

• Throw a backyard barbecue for the newly engaged couple. If you like to barbecue, put some hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill. If cooking isn't really your thing, order smoked pork or chicken from a local barbecue restaurant. Fill coolers with plenty of beer and put up a volleyball net for some pre-dinner fun.
  
  

Mexican

• If you don't want to host the party at your house, consider having it at your favorite local Mexican restaurant. Many restaurants rent out spaces in their businesses for parties; as a bonus, the restaurant takes care of the food and often even the decorations. All you have to do is invite people.
  
  

Picnic

• Host a picnic party at a beach, park or other local outdoor spot. Spread several large blankets on the ground for people to sit on. If you don't want to go with blankets, choose an area that offers picnic tables for your use. Serve picnic foods such as fried chicken, potato salad and baked beans.
  
  

Brunch

• If you are hosting an engagement party for a small group of people, invite everyone over for brunch on a Saturday or Sunday. Lay out a buffet of typical brunch foods, such as waffles, quiches and fresh fruits. Serve mimosas and Bloody Marys if you want to have alcohol.