How to Announce Your Engagement

Creative, meaningful, and modern ways to share your exciting news

Getting engaged is a moment you’ll remember forever—and how you announce it sets the tone for this new chapter. Whether you prefer something quiet and intimate or celebratory and public, your engagement announcement should reflect you as a couple. Below are thoughtful and creative ways to share your news, along with etiquette tips to help you announce with confidence.

Start With the People Who Matter Most

Before sharing your engagement publicly, take time to tell your immediate family and closest friends. Hearing the news directly makes them feel included and valued. This can be done in person over a relaxed meal, during a small gathering at home, or even through a heartfelt phone call or video chat if distance is a factor.

Sharing your news privately first allows you to enjoy genuine reactions and celebrate the moment without distractions. It also ensures loved ones don’t find out through social media.

Capture the Moment With Engagement Photos

Many couples choose to wait until they have professional photos before making a wider announcement. An engagement photo session not only gives you beautiful images to share, but also creates lasting memories during a joyful time.

To make the most of your shoot:

• Choose a location that’s meaningful to your relationship (check out the Best Beaches in St. Thomas)

• Schedule your session during golden hour for soft, flattering light

• Coordinate outfits without matching exactly for a polished look

• Clean and polish your engagement ring so it shines in close-ups (Read our guide on Caring for Your Fine Jewelry for quick cleaning tips.)

• Focus on natural connection rather than stiff poses

These photos can be used for social media, engagement cards, wedding websites, and keepsakes.

Share the News Online in a Way That Feels Authentic

Once your inner circle knows, you can share your engagement publicly. A simple photo paired with a heartfelt caption is often the most timeless approach. Whether it’s a ring close-up, a candid from the proposal, or a favorite photo together, choose an image that reflects your personalities. For tips on taking the perfect ring selfie, read Jewelry Photography Tips

Popular caption ideas include:

• “Forever starts here 🤍”

• “I said yes to my best friend 💍”

• “Officially engaged!”

• “The beginning of our forever”

Some couples post individually, while others share a joint announcement—both are perfectly fine.

Tell Your Story Through Video

If you captured the proposal on video or enjoy creating content, a short video or reel can be a powerful way to announce your engagement. This could be a clip from the proposal, a montage of favorite moments together, or a simple video ending with a reveal of your engagement ring.

Video announcements feel personal and emotional, allowing friends and family to experience the joy alongside you.

Send Engagement Announcement Cards

Printed engagement announcements are a thoughtful option, especially for loved ones who may not be active on social media. These cards can be formal or casual and often include a photo, your names, and the engagement date.

They also become meaningful keepsakes for parents, grandparents, and even for you to look back on years later.

Consider a Traditional Newspaper Announcement

For couples who value tradition, a newspaper engagement announcement offers a classic and sentimental touch. These typically include the couple’s names, hometowns, parents’ names, and the engagement date.

While less common today, they are still cherished by families and make wonderful mementos.

Celebrate With an Engagement Party

An engagement party is a joyful way to bring everyone together and officially celebrate your news. It can be anything from a casual backyard gathering to a dinner or cocktail party at a favorite restaurant.

Even if you’ve already shared your engagement privately or online, an engagement party allows friends and family to celebrate in person before wedding planning begins.

Related to read: The Best Restaurants in St. Thomas & St. John

When Is the Right Time to Announce?

There’s no set timeline for announcing your engagement. Some couples share the news immediately, while others wait days or weeks until they’ve enjoyed the moment privately or planned photos.

Consider:

• How soon you plan to get married

• Whether you want professional photos first

• How much information you want to share initially

What matters most is choosing a timeline that feels right for you.

Engagement Announcement Etiquette to Keep in Mind

• Take time to enjoy your engagement privately

• Tell close family and friends before posting publicly

• Be mindful of timing around other major events

• Keep your message genuine and true to your relationship

• Make sure both families are informed before social media posts

Thoughtful planning ensures your announcement feels joyful, respectful, and intentional.

Final Thoughts

Your engagement announcement is the first step in sharing your love story with the world. Whether it’s quiet and personal or celebratory and public, the best announcement is one that feels authentic to you as a couple.

As you begin this exciting chapter, take time to enjoy every moment—and celebrate with jewelry that reflects the meaning of your commitment and the journey ahead. 💍✨