Gift for Engagement Party?

I like the bottle of wine idea with a nice card, they are only announcing their engagement for crying out loud. I think that the mother is so tacky for making a remark like that, and it's even more god awful that they have registered for a freaking engagement party.

I think that either gift you mentioned (crystal vase or nice bottle of wine) would be fine. However, when you buy a random gift you never know if the couple actually wants it or will use it. How about getting a gift certificate to one of the stores they are registered at? You can make it for whatever amount you want and you know they like the store. That's very presumptious that the cheapest item on their registry is $100. I personally don't spend more than $50 on an engagement gift, and that's if it's a very close friend or family member. I buy less expensive gifts for other people (maybe $30-$40). Then I give a nice wedding gift.

I have always taken a gift. Because they already live together makes it a little easier. Yes they do have everything, in which case you may know what needs to be replaced or what they may need. A gift card always works ... maybe to Target, Bed Bath and Beyond, Bath and Body Works, whatever. The best in this category would be a gift certificate for a couples massage. If you are not looking to spend much, like someone said a picture frame or bottle of wine would be nice, or you could give them a scrap book so the can start saving their memories, or a photo album. Depending on how close you guys are funny gifts are also very well appreciated. Gifts or no gift? Yes, gift. If everything else fails give them something both of them can enjoy, something that may help elevate the stress of the wedding.

How incredibly rude of the bride's mother to tell you what to buy! Maybe she was trying to be helpful but if that doesn't work for you, give what you are comfortable giving. A bottle of wine is always a welcome gift - if the couple drinks. I'd skip buying something like a vase that isn't on their registry. That and a card is a very appropriate engagement gift.

My engagement party was a surprise one that my inlaws put together in their back yard. It consisted of close family and friends, bbq and plenty of alcohol. My husband and I were not expecting this so that was the best present ever! Some of the guests did bring presents and they were nothing more then a nice bottle of champagne and a card - if you feel pressure to give a gift then the people inviting you are only looking for numbers to fill the tables and of course free gifts. Give them what you feel is appropriate and what you can afford to give. The ideas you listed above where fantastic - I'm sure they will be very much appreciated.

Engagement parties are the time to congratulate the couple and it is the first time both families really get together to meet eachother.

Gifts are really not necessary at the engagement party, but a nice card expressing your sentiments would be wonderful!

Of course, if you think they would like the wine, thats nice and hopefully affordable for you as well.

Who the heck has stuff only $100 + up on their registry? THATS NUTS!

I think that would be just fine. I am getting married in May, and I put a lot of inexpensive things on my gift registry like towels, and blenders things that I need, but are only about 20-40 dollars because I know there are a lot of people that can't afford to buy really expensive gifts. so I think that a nice vase is a great gift, and I'd love it...good luck!

To be honest, I don't think people necessarily give gifts at engagement parties. I've been to one and there were no gifts. However, if you do choose to, give a gift card. That always works...

Yellowtail Reserve wine and a set of wine glasses. Yummy yummy!

Your ideas are great. You're right - that's crazy to give so many gifts! What do these people expect?? Don't break the bank - just give them something like you suggested and don't stress over it.