Engagement Party Guide

How to Plan an Engagement Party in Austin, Texas

Planning an engagement party is the perfect excuse to celebrate your love and set the tone for your wedding festivities. It’s a chance to gather your closest friends and family, share your excitement, and officially kick off this new chapter in your lives. If you're a couple in Austin, Texas, or are tying the knot at Lone Star Oaks, you're in for an unforgettable event surrounded by the natural beauty and charm that this location offers. From selecting the guest list to choosing the perfect theme, venue, and menu, planning can feel overwhelming, but with the right tips, it can also be a joyful process. This Austin Texas engagement party guide is here to help you craft the ultimate engagement party, ensuring every detail—from the decor to the vibe—sets the stage for the celebrations ahead.

Before we get started, we’d love to introduce ourselves! As a small business wedding venue, we’ve had the honor of hosting hundreds of weddings and special celebrations over the years. We’re all about transparency when it comes to pricing, and we’re always happy to answer any questions you have—whether it’s before or during your venue tour.

Contact us today to check available wedding dates and schedule a tour of our space. While you’re here, don’t forget to browse our real wedding gallery for a little inspiration and a peek at some of our favorite past events!

10 Reasons to Plan an Engagement Party

1. Celebrate Your Love: Share the excitement of your engagement with family and friends.

2. Bring Everyone Together: An engagement party is a great opportunity for both families to meet and mingle.

3. Set the Tone for Your Wedding: It’s the chance to introduce your wedding style or theme.

4. Pre-Wedding Photos: Take stunning photos together at the party to document this milestone.

5. Share Your Proposal Story: Give your guests a chance to hear your engagement story firsthand.

6. Meet the Wedding Party: Introduce the bridal party to the larger group.

7. Enjoy Good Food and Fun: Who doesn’t love an excuse for a great meal and a glass of champagne?

8. Engagement Toasts: Give your close friends and family the chance to toast your future.

9. Break the Ice: Guests who meet now will feel more comfortable at your wedding.

10. Just Have Fun: Planning the actual wedding can be stressful; an engagement party is all about celebrating worry-free.

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Who Gets Invited to an Engagement Party?

The guest list for your engagement party typically includes close family, best friends, and anyone you consider important in your life. Since this is a smaller event compared to the wedding, it’s okay to keep it intimate. Remember though, anyone invited to your engagement party should also be invited to your wedding.

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10 Engagement Party Traditions

1. Formal Invitations: Consider sending printed or digital invitations to set a formal tone.

2. The Toast: Expect heartfelt speeches from parents, friends, or even the couple.

3. A Themed Secret: Some couples like to subtly hint at the wedding theme.

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4. Cake Cutting: It’s like a mini preview of your big day.

6. Custom Cocktails: Create a drink inspired by your upcoming union.

7. Engagement Games: Icebreakers like trivia about the couple are always a hit.

8. Ring Reveal: Showcase the sparkling ring to family and friends.

9. Flower Decorations: Start the wedding vibes early with beautiful blooms.

10. Welcome Gifts: Send guests home with small tokens of appreciation.

11. Photo Moments: Hire a photographer to ensure there are amazing memories of the night.

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Who Pays for an Engagement Party?

Traditionally, the bride’s family hosts and covers the cost of the engagement party, but modern etiquette is more flexible. Sometimes, the couple themselves or friends pitch in. It’s also becoming increasingly common for everyone to share hosting duties, depending on the budget and circumstances.

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10 Reasons to Host Your Engagement Party at Lone Star Oaks

Lone Star Oaks is the premier rustic-chic venue to host your engagement party in the Texas Hill Country. Here’s why you’ll love it:

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1. Stunning Scenery: The backdrop of oak trees and the Texas landscape creates a romantic setting.

2. Indoor and Outdoor Spaces: Choose from cozy indoor areas or wide-open outdoor spaces.

3. Intimate Atmosphere: Perfect for hosting small, meaningful celebrations.

4. Exceptional Service: Their event staff will ensure your engagement party is seamless.

5. Photo-Worthy Views: Capture your engagement memories in a picture-perfect setting.

6. Exclusive Use of Venue: You’ll have complete privacy for your party.

7. Customizable Decor: Add your unique touch to match your wedding vision.

8. Flexible Catering Options: Enjoy the freedom to choose your favorite local caterers.

9. Convenient Location: Close to Austin while providing that quintessential Hill Country vibe.

10. Reputation for Excellence: Lone Star Oaks is praised by couples across Texas for its stunning events.

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25 Popular Engagement Party Restaurants in Austin

If you prefer to host your celebration at a local spot, check out these fantastic Austin restaurants for your engagement party.

1. Uchiko

2. Aba Austin

3. Mattie’s

4. Loro

5. Fonda San Miguel

6. Hestia

7. Jacoby’s Restaurant

8. Suerte

9. Olamaie

10. The Peached Tortilla

11. The Salt Lick BBQ (for a casual, iconic vibe)

12. Barley Swine

13. Juniper

14. ATX Cocina

15. TLC Austin

16. Odd Duck

17. Honey Moon Spirit Lounge

18. Sway

19. Perla’s Seafood & Oyster Bar

20. Carve American Grille

21. Contigo

22. Red Ash Italia

23. Deckhand Oyster Bar

24. Eberly

25. The Domain’s North Italia

Hosting an engagement party in Austin will kick off your wedding celebrations in style. Whether you host it at amazing venues like Lone Star Oaks or in one of Austin’s exciting restaurants, the key is to focus on what represents you as a couple.

Need some help planning? The staff at Lone Star Oaks is here for you! Book your engagement party at Lone Star Oaks and receive expert guidance to make it a night to remember.

To learn more or to schedule a tour, visit Lone Star Oaks today. If you're in search of a Texas Hill Country wedding venue featuring a chapel, outdoor wedding ceremonies and luxury indoor receptions, breathtaking setting for your wedding photographs, consider Lone Star Oaks as your destination. Contact us today to schedule a venue tour.

We are excited to showcase our beautiful wedding venue, including the enchanting chapel, picturesque outdoor ceremony area, elegant indoor reception spaces, and all the distinctive features they offer. You can find more images on our gallery, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Elyse Bonner Photography

Best Restaurants in Austin TX

Austin Restaurants Loved by Our Engaged Couples and Their Wedding Guests

Austin, Texas, is a food lover's paradise, offering everything from finger-licking BBQ to globally inspired cuisine and elegant fine dining. Whether you're in Austin for a wedding, planning your big day, or simply visiting to soak in the lively food scene, we've curated the ultimate list for indulging in the best flavors Austin has to offer. In this article we will share the Best Restaurants in Austin TX according to our team at Lone Star Oaks, our engaged couples and their wedding guests. We know that we will have to share several articles on this topic in order to list all the amazing restaurants in Austin, so follow along as we do our best to celebrate incredible cuisine in the capital of Texas.

We've broken the list into categories so you can find exactly what you're looking for during your time in the Texas capital.

Before we get started, we would like to share a little information about Lone Star Oaks wedding venue. As a small business wedding venue, we’ve had the privilege of hosting hundreds of weddings and special celebrations over the years. We are committed to transparent pricing and we’re happy to answer all your pricing questions prior to and during a venue tour.

Contact us today to check available wedding dates and book a tour of our venue. While you’re here, don’t forget to explore our real wedding gallery for inspiration and a closer look at our past events.

The best table at a wedding reception, the sweetheart table at Lone Star Oaks, photo by Elyse Bonner Photography.

Top 30 Austin Restaurants for Engaged Couples & Travel Enthusiasts

Planning a wedding or celebrating your engagement in Austin? These restaurants are perfect for romantic dates or creating unforgettable moments as you explore the city.

Elyse Bonner Photography, a beautiful dessert table at Lone Star Oaks Austin wedding venue.

1. Uchi

• Why Go: World-class sushi in a warm, sophisticated atmosphere.

• Must-Try: Hama Chili and Wagyu Beef Nigiri.

2. Odd Duck

• Why Go: A farm-to-table gem with creative small plates.

• Must-Try: Smoked Fish Dip with Saltines.

3. Launderette

• Why Go: Cozy, stylish, and inventive New American cuisine.

• Must-Try: Birthday Cake Ice Cream Sandwich.

4. Justine’s Brasserie

• Why Go: Twinkling patio lights set the scene for Parisian-inspired dishes.

• Must-Try: Steak Frites.

5. Clark’s Oyster Bar

• Why Go: Perfect for a chic seafood date.

• Must-Try: Crab Cocktail with Toast.

6. Elizabeth Street Café

• Why Go: A Vietnamese-French fusion café with a delightful ambiance.

• Must-Try: Vermicelli Bowls and Macarons.

7. Aba

• Why Go: Mediterranean fare paired with a gorgeous rooftop vibe.

• Must-Try: Short Rib Hummus.

8. Péché

• Why Go: Indulge in Absinthe and decadent French dishes with an old-world feel.

• Must-Try: Duck Confit.

9. L’Oca d’Oro

• Why Go: The Italian flavors and intimate vibe will have you savoring every bite.

• Must-Try: Squid Ink Pasta.

10. Barley Swine

• Why Go: Multi-course tasting menus showcasing the best seasonal and local ingredients.

• Must-Try: Trust anything your chef recommends!

Reserved for our engaged couple! Elyse Bonner Photography featuring a sweetheart table at Lone Star Oaks, Austin Wedding Venue

10 Fine Dining Restaurants in Austin, TX

Planning an upscale meal? Head to one of these fine dining spots for a night of luxury.

1. Eberly, A chic space known for craft cocktails and upscale dishes. 615 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

2. Jeffrey's of Austin, Elegant American classics with outstanding services. 1204 W Lynn St, Austin, TX 78703

3. TRIO, Stunning lakeside views paired with top-notch steak and seafood. 98 San Jacinto, Austin, TX 78701

4. Comedor, Contemporary Mexican cuisine that’s both stylish and adventurous. 501 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701

5. Red Ash Italia, Wood-fired Italian cuisine at its best. Colorado Tower, 303 Colorado St #200, Austin, TX 78701

6. Épicerie, An intimate bistro with a Cajun-French menu. 2307 Hancock Dr, Austin, TX 78756

7. The Driskill Grill, Timeless elegance in a legendary setting. 117 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78701

8. Fixe Southern House, Southern charm with a gourmet twist. 500 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701

9. Arlo Grey, Run by Top Chef winner Kristen Kish. Expect stunning dishes full of color and flavor. 111 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701

10. Otoko, An elevated multi-course Japanese dining experience in an intimate setting. 1603 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704

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10 Austin Restaurants Famous for Special Menu Items

Looking for something unique? These restaurants are iconic for their signature dishes.

1. Franklin Barbecue - The Brisket.

2. Torchy’s Tacos - The Trailer Park Taco (Order it “Trashy” to swap the lettuce for queso!).

3. Home Slice Pizza - The White Clam Pizza.

4. Joe’s Bakery & Coffee Shop - Caldo de Res.

5. Gourdough’s Big. Fat. Donuts. - The Flying Pig Donut (Bacon + Maple Syrup!).

6. Kerbey Lane Café - Cinnamon Roll Pancakes.

7. Amy’s Ice Creams - Mexican Vanilla Ice Cream.

8. Matt’s El Rancho - Bob Armstrong Dip.

9. The Salt Lick BBQ - Family-style BBQ platters.

10. Voodoo Doughnut - Bacon Maple Bar.

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10 Austin Restaurants for International Cuisine

Craving international flavors? These 10 restaurants deliver a global dining experience, right in Austin.

1. Suerte - Modern Mexican-inspired plates.

2. Fonda San Miguel - Upscale interior Mexican cuisine.

3. Churro Co. - Mexican-inspired desserts with a twist.

4. Mandala Kitchen & Bar - Thai comfort food with flair.

5. Taverna - Italian risottos and wines.

6. Michi Ramen - Authentic Japanese ramen.

7. Buenos Aires Cafe - Argentinian favorites like empanadas and steak.

8. Russian House - Traditional dishes like Beef Stroganoff.

9. Pho Please - Vietnamese pho bursting with flavor.

10. Daruma Ramen - Light and flavorful Japanese ramen bowls.

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Top 10 BBQ Restaurants in Austin, TX

When in Austin, BBQ is a must. Here are the top 10 spots for smoky, melt-in-your-mouth brisket and ribs.

1. Franklin Barbecue

2. La Barbecue

3. Micklethwait Craft Meats

4. Stiles Switch BBQ

5. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ

6. Terry Black’s Barbecue

7. Iron Works BBQ

8. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

9. Lambert’s Downtown Barbecue

10. The Salt Lick BBQ

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Where Guy Fieri Ate in Austin

Love Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives? Here are Austin joints featured on Guy Fieri’s hit show.

• Pieous (BBQ Pizzas)

• Julio’s Café (Tex-Mex goodness)

• Louie Mueller Barbecue (Legendary brisket)

• East Side King (Fusion bites galore)

• Hoover’s Cooking (True Austin comfort food)

Best Restaurants in Austin TX - inspired by our engaged couples and their wedding guests

10 Reasons to Choose Lone Star Oaks for Your Austin Wedding Venue

Looking for the perfect wedding venue? Lone Star Oaks is the ultimate choice for engaged couples in Austin. Here's why:

1. Stunning outdoor spaces perfect for ceremonies.

2. Spacious indoor reception hall with elegant finishes.

3. Picturesque oak trees providing a natural, romantic backdrop.

4. On-site wedding planner to make your big day stress-free.

5. Conveniently located near Austin’s best eateries (see list above!).

6. Ample parking and guest accommodations nearby.

7. Flexible vendor options.

8. Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.

9. Warm, welcoming staff to cater to your every need.

10. A timeless venue that feels authentically Texan.

Lone Star Oaks is not a restaurant, but we do host lots of celebrations which require the gourmet expertise of Austins most talented catering experts. Photo by Ceelo Creative

Austin has a culinary scene like no other, and this guide only scratches the surface! Whether you're celebrating your engagement or just visiting for some foodie adventures, start planning your meals around these iconic spots.

PS: Planning your dream wedding in Austin? Discover Lone Star Oaks, the perfect venue to make your special day truly unforgettable. If you're looking for a picturesque Texas Hill Country wedding venue or a charming wedding chapel near Austin, Lone Star Oaks offers an idyllic setting that’s perfect for creating stunning wedding memories. Contact us today to schedule a tour and see why we’re the ideal destination for your big day!

We are excited to showcase our beautiful wedding venue, including the enchanting chapel, picturesque outdoor ceremony area, elegant indoor reception spaces, and all the distinctive features they offer. You can find more images on our gallery, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.

Best Restaurants in Austin TX - inspired by our engaged couples and their wedding guests