8 Engagement Party Ideas More Fun Than Your Wedding

If you’ve recently been popped the question, then you’ve probably heard these two questions pretty often: “When is the wedding?” and “When is the engagement party?” For couples who want to savor this relationship milestone, an engagement party can be a great way to scratch the celebratory itch that friends and family have been harboring since the ring met your finger. Besides, you should be over-the-moon excited too! We’ve looked far and wide for the best ways to celebrate and are so stoked to present you with the coolest party themes around town.

As fall rounds the corner (We know — crazy right?!), we’re filling our shopping carts with the perfect dresses for all of our fall events. Bold colors and fun prints are all the rage, and we’re taking advantage of all the colors in this wedding guest dress shopping roundup. While fall may be a fan-favorite season, it can be hard to predict what the weather will be. It could be in the seventies on Tuesday and dip into the fifties by Friday — you can really never know what to expect.

Keep reading for our favorite wedding guest dresses for every fall wedding on your calendar — from styles fit for the Miami heat and the cool New England air.

MISHA Evianna Satin Gown ($447)

Image via Revolve

Show out and stand out in this stunning hot pink dress. Not only is it a great wedding guest dress, but it’s amazing for any formal gathering.

Amanda Uprichard Cleary Dress ($207)

Image via Revolve

“But what you don't know is that [this dress] is not just blue, it's not turquoise, it's not lapis, it's actually cerulean.” Excuse us as we channel our inner Miranda Priestly.

Reformation Sigmund Dress ($248)

Image via Reformation

The sultry square neckline and side slit, plus the puffed shoulders and a relaxed skirt, will grab everyone’s attention.

ELLIAT Rosalind Dress ($370)

Image via Revolve

This is THE fall dress of fall dresses. From the colors to the floral accents, this dress is perfect for a warm fall wedding.

L’IDEE Renaissance Split Gown ($395)

Image via Revolve

This teal moment is *everything*. Seriously. You’ll be catching us rocking this to our next wedding later this fall.

House of Harlow 1960 x REVOLVE Antonia Gown ($278)

Image via Revolve

ICYMI, green is the color of the year. Keep your love for green going with this gorgeous piece.

Sundays Florence Maxi Dress ($300)

Image via Anthropologie

With so many styling opportunities, the possibilities are infinite with this fabulous dress.

L’IDEE Sirene Mini Dress ($455)

Image via Revolve

If your fall wedding is going to be H-O-T, then give this bold number a try.

House of Harlow 1960 x REVOLVE Sumner Mini Dress ($195)

Image via Revolve

Teal and emerald are such fall colors, and this dress is the perfect mix of both.

Free People Seraphina Maxi Dress ($350)

Image via Free People

Just as effortless as it is ethereal, this head-turning maxi is designed to be paired with anything from a staple stiletto to a fun flat. This gorgeous gown is sure to be a staple in your special occasions collection for many years to come.

Mac Duggal Long Sleeve Pleated High Neck Gown ($498)

Image via Mac Duggal

If you’re looking for a polished, refined gown — this is the one for you.

Free People Moss Midi ($78)

Image via Free People

So timeless and forever flattering, this sweet midi will turn heads from the boardwalk to your next soiree.

Significant Other Demi Midi Dress ($386)

Image via Revolve

This deep mustard gown is stunning — from its balloon sleeves to its low back, you’ll be fielding dozens of compliments.

Free People Blossom Bliss Maxi ($300)

Image via Free People

Stand out in this timeless maxi dress is designed to be paired with absolutely anything from a staple stiletto to a strappy sandal.

RUMER Tropez Mini Dress ($299)

Image via Revolve

Every girl needs a LBD, and this classic piece will last a lifetime.

What dress will you be wearing to your upcoming events? Let us know @BritandCo!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header images via Revolve, Anthropologie, Reformation.

Design by Olivia Taylor.

The holidays are here, people – now is the perfect time to gear up your holiday decor game! Luckily, Fortunoff Backyard Store is here to help you get a jump with plenty of holiday decor options like Christmas trees, ornaments, outdoor lighting, wreaths, and charming indoor pieces. We scrolled their entire site and found these 17 total hidden gems that will undeniably fill your home (inside and out) with cheer.

Scroll on for our favorite holiday decor finds from Fortunoff Backyard Store!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

7.5-Foot Norway Spruce Classic Christmas Tree with 800 Twinkling Dual LED Lights

This affordable Christmas tree is at the very top of our holiday decor wishlist. Plus, you can't beat cozy lighting!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Terrafab Weathered Grey Barrel Gas Fire Pit

Though this gas-powered fire pit will sure come in handy during the cold holiday season, you can definitely still use it in the spring and summer for family bonfires and well into the following fall and winter for s'mores parties. Did we mention it's 64% off right now?!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

8.5-Inch Light Up Musical Water TV with Santa & Sleigh

This adorable battery-powered TV decor piece features a very charming Santa in his sleigh. We love the retro flair! When powered on, Santa's pictured in warm light and plenty of dazzling glitter to some of your favorite Christmas tunes.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Wooden Triangle Santa Head Advent Calendar

We're all about advent calendars this season. The best part about this Santa design is you can use it year after year. This is definitely a fun and festive way to count down the days until Christmas!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

87-Inch Midnight Gas Pyramid Patio Heater

This 50%-off pick is perfect for keeping your holiday guests warm, especially if your patio or backyard tends to be your main hosting spot. It can cover about 210 square feet for a super cozy effect.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Indoor Infinity Light Deer

This tiny deer fitted with a fun infinity mirror is ideal for decorating small spaces. You could also display it in your entryway or a front window for a bright and energetic "welcome home!"

Fortunoff Backyard Store

7.5-Foot Fraser Fir Full Christmas Tree with 2800 Twinkling LED Lights

Nothing beats a Christmas tree with some warm lights. They help supply that classic Christmas look we know and love. With pre-strung LED lights, you can spend more time enjoying the season instead of decorating!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

3.4-Foot Natural Reindeer with 360 Warm White LED Lights

Don't worry: we've got some goodies for you, all you yard decorators! This plug-in reindeer is crafted from a rattan material, giving it an unmatched cozy feel. It also comes ready to go with warm white LED lights that'll shine once the sun goes down.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

30-Inch Flocked Noble Fir Wreath with 100 LED Lights

This faux snow-sprinkled wreath looks great on its own with its collection of cozy lights, but you could also fix it up with some ribbons and other playful holiday accoutrement to show off on your front door.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

9-Foot Flocked Noble Fir Garland with 100 LED Lights

The coordinating garland is so gorgeous, too. Hang it across your mantle or along your stairwell to really up the holiday vibes!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

9-Foot Douglas Fir Full Christmas Tree with 4500 Twinkling Dual LED Lights

If you prefer your Christmas and holiday decor to lean more traditional, this is the tree for you. It gives a soft, warm glow that's sure to complement any interior!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

Red Shiny Shatterproof Christmas Ball Ornament

Of course, a Christmas tree wouldn't be a Christmas tree without some ornaments! We love Fortunoff Backyard Store's selection, plus you really can't go wrong with a classic ball shape.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

9-Foot Red and Green Poinsettia Garland

Poinsettias always provide a warm welcome to the holiday season. Embrace Christmastime with a pop of poinsettia blooms placed tastefully throughout this decked-out garland!

Fortunoff Backyard Store

11-Inch Framed Star with 400 Warm White LED Lights

The lights wound around this cheerful star-shaped decor piece have a magical twinkling effect that'll cover your front or back yard with tons of holiday cheer. The 11-inch frame is fitted with 26.2 feet of clear cable, so you can hang it how you really want it.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

4.9 x 6.6-Foot Christmas LED Warm White Net Light

Net lights like these are the premier choice for decorating your yard's shrubs and bushes. They're extremely easy to install, plus the net construction ensures your lights are always evenly distributed.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

23.5-Inch Infinity Light Snowman

If jolly's what you're looking for, this handsome little snowman will be the piece to complete this year's holiday decor setup! He can happily sit in a window or on top of your mantle, emitting an eye-catching design all the while.

Fortunoff Backyard Store

4-Inch Glass Mercury Plaid Ball Ornament

Plaid will never go out of style when it comes to holiday decor, as far as we're concerned. Snag a few of these glass ornaments to truly deck out your tree in timeless Christmas spirit!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more editor-approved holiday decor!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Planning a wedding is stressful, to say the least. From the venuethe to the officiant, flowers, seating arrangements, music and more, it can quickly become overwhelming. However, we maintain that cake-tasting is a much-needed moment of levity and deliciousness in the process. Then comes the tricky — but still fun! — part: designing your dream dessert. To help you get started, take your cues from this bunch of sweet, sensational wonders.


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Claire | Wedding Cake Designer | Kent | South UK on Instagram: "🤍Rainbows and Puddles🤍 What a lot of rain over the weekend. I’ve posted this rainbow cake with sails and fairy lights to remind us that the brightest rainbows follow the darkest rainstorms. Also, that there are now the biggest puddles for puddle jumping with the kids tomorrow- things are looking up. Happy splashing everyone xx Here’s the fantastic team behind the shoot: Featured @englishweddingblog Concept & photography // @wildmeadowphoto Assistant photographer // @djselling Venue // @thelostvillageofdode Celebrant // @roseandgraceceremonies Models // @michele_and_graziella Prop Hire // @thelittleweddingwarehouse Jewellery // @lawley_design Dresses // @withloveandlacebridal Hairstylist // @versastyleby_laura Make up // @jasmineebarker Cake // @theartisancakekitchen Florist // @bryonymaeflowers Stationery // @designbyemilyuk Veils // @bexbrides Garters // @hayze.boutique Unity Candle // @pendlewickcandle Celebrant dress // @nrbyclothing #theartisancakekitchen #artisancakekitchen #weddingcake #styledshoot #weddingstyledshoot #rainbowwedding #rainbowweddingcake #fairylights #ricepapersail #ricepapercake #rusticwedding #rusticweddingcake #bohostyle #bohowedding #bohoweddingcake #kentwedding #kentweddingcakes #kentweddingsupplier #sussexwedding #bridetobe2021 #groomtobe2021 #kentbride #kentbridetobe #kentgroom #justengaged #bespokeweddingcakes #cake_trends #contemporaryweddingcake #modernweddingcake"

Add some flair to your wedding cake with this beautiful, wispy design.

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L.I.A Sweets cake design on Instagram: "So excited to say that our #asiamasterclass2018 has be featured on @oncewed !! It’s a great honor to be a part of this dream team and no words can describe how thankful I am to see our cake in @oncewed . Visit my profile for more stunning photos . 言語無法形容這一刻的感動!!我們的蛋糕很榮幸有機會參與 @jillloveslace x @nadiahungphotography 主辦的亞洲大師班, 並且刊登在美國具有指標性的婚禮線上雜誌Once wed. 在此非常感謝Jill給我們足夠的信任,讓我們不斷突破自己,藉由這次的夢幻組合,重新體驗美的境界。 . . Hosted by @nadiahungphotography @jillloveslace Planning/Creative Direction/Floral Design @jillloveslace Makeup & Hair @chicomakeupartistry Stationery Design/Branding @steadyhandscreative Wedding Gown @vnweddings Tableware @thehosttable Venue @theonenanyuan Model @fyntage @jenjening Cake @l.i.a_sweets #oncewed #asiamasterclass2018 #fineart #weddingcake #taiwan #結婚蛋糕 #翻糖蛋糕 #美式婚禮 #台灣 #ウェディングケーキ #シュガーケーキ"

For the modern bride, consider a square cake for an angular, unique take on the traditional dessert.

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The Cake and I on Instagram: "Rerun of an old favourite. This marbled ganache babe has been circulating on Pinterest the last couple of years. I often have it sent to me for inspiration without the sender realising it was our creation. . Only made awesome by the team @katedrennanphotography @rose.and.bud @butcherbakerstylist . Forever grateful to these friendors* and the wonderful couple @chefjaninebooth @chefmcinnis for the fabulous brief and trusting us with creativity 🤗 . . *FRIENDORS my new favourite word thanks to @butter_and_fleur 😄 . #theweddingbliss"

This one is for all of our bohemian brides.

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Cynthia Irani Design on Instagram: "I should be working on new designs soon - meanwhile, reposting this beauty once more 💕✨🌸🎨 #cynthiairanidesign #cynzcakes #signaturecake #signaturedesign #montrealdesign . . . . . . . . . #buttercreamflowers #flowercake #cakelove #flowerlove #weddingcake #destinationweddings #sugarflowers #instacake #waferpaper #cakeart #weddingideas #botanical #waferpaperflowers #cakedecorating #flowerart #cakeartist #edibleart #cake_trends #buttercreamcake #buttercreamflowercake #marthaweddings #handpaintedcake #paintedcake #fineartbride #impressionistart"

Now THIS is the cake of your maximalist, ethereal dreams.

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LuBelle's Cakes on Instagram: "This entire display was beautiful but can we talk about the bride?! She is absolutely stunning! @lrwevents @briannakimphotography @haus820 @achairaffair @troverentals @lubellescakes @seaboardmobilebar @kristysartistrydesignteam @furryventures_petcare @alyssamaldonadodesign @citruspressco @woodlandcustomdesign @thebridalrefinery #wedding #weddingcake #stunningbride #bride #orlandowedding #tampawedding #floridawedding #cakeart #sugarart #neutralstyle #bridalmakeup #bridaldress #weddingbackdrop #styledshoot #styledshoots #rufflecake #ruffleweddingcake #fondantcake"

We love this layered cake!

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This press flowered cake is a stunning way to incorporate florals into your wedding desserts.

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Le Rose Stories Robes & Sleep on Instagram: "It’s never JUST a cake…🤍 LR xx @tylernormanphotography"

Pearls are a timeless wedding staple. Jazz up your cake with some of these stunning embellishments.

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DE LA ROSA CAKES - Perth Wedding Cakes on Instagram: "• G I S É L E •"

So simple yet so elegant.

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Wedding Cakes by Hannah Matilda - Manchester / Cheshire on Instagram: "FEATURED 💫 I’ve been so busy for the last year I’ve not had time to do any editorial shoots which is a massive shame as it’s such a great opportunity to try new things and work with amazing suppliers! Here’s a throwback to one of my favourites - Our Harvest Moon editorial featured on @wantthatwedding with the most amazing team! Photography: @emmapilkingtonphotography Flowers, cake flowers and headpiece: @smokebushfloral Styling: @l27weddings Stationary: @315press Venue: @owenhouseweddingbarn . . . . #weddingeditorial #weddingshoot #neutralwedding #claycake #driedflowercake #weddingcakeinspiration #weddingcaketrends #modernweddingcake #cakeartist #cakedesign #manchesterweddingcakes #manchesterwedding #modernbride #simpleweddingcake #texturedclaycake"

We love the unique design of this cake. Perfect for any couples looking to save a piece for their one year anniversary!

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Consider this a compromise between a pop of color and traditional white.

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We simply cannot fathom how the top two tiers of this cake are floating like that, but wowza!

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Who said a wedding cake has to be white? Candied blood orange is so much more original — and summery.

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In lieu of flowers, consider sequins, pearls, sparkles, and other embellishments.

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You had us at chocolate cake, but a waterfall of macarons and flowers really sealed the deal.

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A mix of square and round tiers gives this cake some pizzazz.

For more wedding cake ideas and sweet inspiration, follow us on Pinterest!

This story was originally published on July 8, 2021 and has been updated with new reporting.

Photo Courtesy of Rachel Wakefield

Chad Michael Murray has many names: Lucas Scott, Cal Jones, Jake — and Dad! The actor (whose new movie The Merry Gentlemen is on Netflix now) just revealed that he always brings his kids to work while filming, and my daddy's girl heart is simply melting.

If you're an One Tree Hill fan, there's a good chance you're a die-hard Lucas and Peyton shipper, but IRL Chad currently has three children with wife, Sarah Roemer: a son who's nine, a daughter who's six, and another daughter who just turned one.

Here's why Chad Michael Murray always brings his family to set with him.

  • Chad Michael Murray has three kids: a 9-year-old son, a 6-year-old daughter, and a 1-year-old daughter.
  • The actor revealed why his family, whom he calls "The Pack," joins him on every film set.
  • He also spills on why he's "really proud" of new Christmas movie The Merry Gentlemen, on Netflix now!

The reason Chad Michael Murray always brings his fam to set is actually really simple. “I want to be there," he tells Variety of why his family is inseparable. "I got to be there for my daughter’s first steps. I got to take her trick or treating for the first time. And she crushed it!"

The actor really views his family as a unit, and proudly calls them "The Pack," which sounds exactly like something Austin Ames from A Cinderella Story would call his family. But don't worry — even though the family was with him on the set of The Merry Gentlemen, which follows a group of guys who stage a steamy revue to rescue a local venue, the kids don't have any innocence lost.

“It’s not gratuitous by any means," he continues. "We threaded the needle on that film. You go too far and you’re making one movie, you go too under, and it doesn’t work at all. It’s in the perfect space where people won’t feel wrong having it on the TV in the background. It’s the sweet spot, and I’m really proud of that."

Chad and his wife recently celebrated their 10th anniversary on September 19, and he posted the sweetest tribute in honor of the special day. "We’ve jammed more into this 10 years than I ever could’ve imagined. It’s truly astounding," he says on Instagram. "It’s been the Best decade of my life by far- sharing each and every moment with you. We’ve grown this little pack together and seen so much of the world as a family. I’m so grateful for you Sarah. Every day is a better and much brighter day with you in it:)"

"I hope and pray for at least 50 more anniversaries with you," he continues. "Till we’re old and gray… new hips, new knees, our elbow skin will be touching the ground, all the kids will think we’re senile but really we’re just f-ing with them… coz that’s what you do when you’re old and together:) I love you Sarah- Happy 10th Anniversary❤️❤️❤️"

In addition to his new holiday flick, the One Tree Hill actor recently made headlines for commenting on his potential return to the One Tree Hill sequel series that's (hopefully) coming to Netflix soon. We know Sophia Bush, Hilarie Burton, and Danneel Ackles are involved, but will we see Lucas join Brooke, Peyton, and Rachel? "No clue," he says, although he hopes it “comes together for the fans.”

“I mean, this fandom that has grown, I mean, literally, I was just in Halifax a week ago and, sure enough, I’m running into 11, 12, 13-year-old kids who are in love with Tree Hill,” he continues. “They’re seeing it on Hulu and they’re going, ‘Oh, my gosh.’ It’s stood the test of time and I think to have some new stories, whatever iteration of the show that’s created, I want it for the fans.”

C'mon everybody let's sing together — I DON'T WANNA BE ANYTHING OTHER THAN WHAT I'VE BEEN TRYNA BE LATELY!

Does Chad Michael Murray seem like the ultimate girl dad? Let us know in the comments and tag us with your hottest The Merry Gentlemen takes!

Miley Cyrus and boyfriend Maxx Morando are extremely elusive, TBH. We've gotten snippets of their relationship status here and there, from them moving in together to their adorable appearance at the Grammys, but not much more than that. Thankfully, Miley opened up to Harper's Bazaarabout her budding relationship, making rare comments about her curly-haired beau.

Here's what Miley Cyrus had to say about Maxx Morando!

Francis Specker/CBS

Like most millennials, Miley needs help staying up-to-date on all things Gen Z, including (and maybe especially) when it comes to memes. Luckily, apparently Maxx keeps her in the loop by sending her what he sees online — a time when their eight-year age gap really seems to come in handy. She told Harper's Bazaar, “He looks at life really differently than I do. He grew up with a laptop. I had a desktop computer that I shared with my brothers and sisters."

The Grammy-winner went on to explain that Maxx even uses his Gen Z-ness when it comes to their dog (OMG they have a dog together?!). She said, "Honestly, he’s raised our dog off Reddit. I’m like, Are you sure we’re supposed to be doing this? And he’s like, On Reddit it says blah, blah, blah."

She went on to explain that Maxx is "very similar" to her. She said, "We just don’t take life too seriously." This all plays into their ability for the two musicians to collaborate on creating, meshing their personal and professional lives pretty seamlessly. According to the article, Maxx helped write the song "Something Beautiful" on her upcoming album, which is apparently the title track...I'm not crying, you are!

While so many couldn't intertwine their careers with matters so personal, Miley clearly feels differently. She said, “I worked with my dad forever. That’s how me and my ex-husband met each other. I’ve always worked with the people that I love. And Maxx just inspires me so much.”

BRB while I anxiously await this new album...and any other updates on these two love birds!

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