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Engagement Party Guide

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.

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!

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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.

Engagement Party Guide Austin Texas

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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

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Austin Wedding Venues: Outdoor Ceremony Spaces

As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this wedding venue map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!

Stunning Outdoor Wedding Venues in Austin for Your Perfect Day: Discover breathtaking locations surrounded by nature, offering the ideal setting to celebrate your Texas Hill Country wedding.

If you’re planning a wedding in Austin, and you dream of saying “I do” surrounded by the beauty of nature, look no further than Lone Star Oaks. This breathtaking venue offers stunning outdoor ceremony spaces that exude charm, elegance, and a touch of Texas magic. Whether you're a local or planning a destination wedding, Lone Star Oaks offers the ideal Austin Outdoor Wedding Ceremony Spaces to make your special day unforgettable.

Hi there! As a small business wedding venue, we’ve been fortunate enough to host hundreds of amazing weddings and celebrations over the years. We believe in being upfront with our pricing and are always happy to answer your questions—whether it’s before or during your venue tour.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us to check available dates and book a tour. While you’re here, be sure to check out our real wedding gallery for some inspiration and a peek at past events. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Austin Wedding Venues: Outdoor Ceremony Spaces

Blue Tree Studio

20 Tips to Make the Most of Your Outdoor Wedding Ceremony at Lone Star Oaks

Planning an outdoor wedding is all about thoughtful details and preparation. To help your big day flow as smoothly as possible, here are 20 tips—tailored specifically to maximize the beauty of Lone Star Oaks’ serene outdoor spaces.

  1. Select the perfect time of day to make the most of golden hour lighting.

  2. Offer personalized fans or parasols in case of warm weather.

  3. Have a backup rain plan using the venue’s flexible indoor spaces.

  4. Use seasonal flowers that complement Lone Star Oaks' natural beauty.

  5. Consider soft string lights or lanterns for an evening glow.

  6. Feature a wooden or floral arch to enhance the natural setting.

  7. Provide signage that doubles as décor, guiding guests with charm.

  8. Use comfortable chairs for guests during the ceremony.

  9. Offer a hydration station with refreshing beverages.

  10. Customize your vows to the outdoor ambiance (mention the trees, nature around you).

  11. Incorporate nature-inspired décor like wooden signs or greenery runners.

  12. Work with your photographer to capture the rolling oaks in your backdrop.

  13. Consider live acoustic music—a guitarist, harpist, or violinist fits the vibe perfectly!

  14. Provide bug spray for summer ceremonies.

  15. Host lawn games or activities during cocktail hour.

  16. Use biodegradable confetti for a sustainable grand exit.

  17. Pick comfortable and practical shoes for walking on outdoor terrain.

  18. Place sunscreen bottles in the restrooms for guests to reapply.

  19. Host your rehearsal dinner on site to get familiar with the surroundings.

  20. End with a sparkler or fairy-light sendoff—pure magic under the Texas stars.

Austin Wedding Venues

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5 Reasons Why Lone Star Oaks Has the Prettiest Outdoor Wedding Spaces in Austin

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Choosing the right venue can make or break your big day. Here’s why Lone Star Oaks is unmatched when it comes to outdoor wedding ceremonies in Austin.

  1. Gorgeous Trees & Natural Landscaping: Towering oak trees and lush greens provide a picture-perfect backdrop for your ceremony.

  2. Seamless Indoor & Outdoor Flow: With options to combine outdoor elegance with indoor comforts, you’ll never stress over unpredictable weather.

  3. Customizable Outdoor Layouts: From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, you can design an outdoor setup that suits your vision.

  4. Golden Hour Views: The landscape and surroundings are breathtaking as the sun sets—your photographer will thank you.

  5. Exclusive & Private Setting: Far enough from Austin’s hustle and bustle, Lone Star Oaks feels like a romantic escape meant just for you.

Austin Wedding Venues

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5 Reasons to Schedule a Wedding Venue Tour at Lone Star Oaks

Still unsure if Lone Star Oaks is the right venue for your big day? A tour might be just what you need to fall in love with the space. Here’s why you’ll want to schedule one ASAP.

  1. See the Space in Action: Pictures don’t do justice to the serene vibe and elegant layouts available.

  2. Meet the Team: The friendly Lone Star Oaks staff will walk you through all your options and answer every question.

  3. Experience the Outdoors: There’s nothing like standing beneath the majestic trees where you could potentially exchange vows.

  4. Explore Event Packages: Learn more about the packages and customizable features offered for your wedding needs.

  5. Find Hidden Gems: Touring the venue allows you to discover unique features you might not spot online, like their reception setups, cocktail hour spots, or photo opportunities.

Austin wedding venue outdoor ceremony

Blu Tree Studio

Planning Your 2026 Outdoor Wedding Ceremony at Lone Star Oaks

It’s never too early to start planning ahead, especially when considering the best wedding dates for 2026. Here are five unique dates to consider tying the knot at Lone Star Oaks in 2026.

1. Leap Year Love | Saturday, February 28, 2026

Leap years don’t come around often—why not make your anniversary as unique as your love story?

2. Palindrome Date | Tuesday, March 3, 2026 (3.3.26)

Dates with special numerical patterns are unforgettable and oh-so-trendy.

3. Fourth of July Weekend | Saturday, July 4, 2026

Celebrate love and freedom with an extended holiday weekend wedding celebration.

4. First Day of Fall | Tuesday, September 22, 2026

The cooler weather and autumnal vibes make this day perfect for an outdoor Texas wedding.

5. Christmas Week Wedding | Saturday, December 26, 2026

Imagine combining the warmth of the holiday spirit with the joy of your wedding day—it’s a combo your guests will love.

Austin wedding venue outdoor ceremony

Blu Tree Studio

Book Your Dream Wedding Venue Today

Your dream outdoor wedding ceremony in Austin awaits. Lone Star Oaks offers not just a venue but an unforgettable experience tailored to your vision. If romance, nature, and expert care are on your wishlist, this is the place for you.

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.

Austin wedding venue outdoor ceremony

As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this wedding venue map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!

Read More