Evan Reitmeyer, owner of MyDeejay.com

1) What’s the best way to set a festive tone with music at an engagement party?

It’s always smart to stick with upbeat, recognizable music, and leave the obscure B-sides at home.  People are moved by music that’s familiar.  Also, be sure you only use music with a positive message – no breakup songs!  You don’t need a theme, unless of course your party is designed around one, but try to group songs together in logical sets.  For example, group a few 80′s songs, a few 90′s songs, and so on.

2) Should someone be responsible for music or is an iPod playlist ok?

It really depends on your expectations.  If you’re having friends and family over for a cocktail party or a barbecue, an iPod is probably fine, since you won’t have the need to tailor the music to the crowd and make changes on the fly.  However, if you want people to dance, or if you want your guests to be able to request their favorite music throughout, the event, then you should probably have a DJ.

3) What songs would you recommend for a playlist for an engagement party?

I think fun and kitschy classics like “Chapel of Love” by The Dixie Cups are a great place to start.  Depending on how long the party is, you can certainly program anything from classics like “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra to current top 40 hits.  It really depends on the atmosphere and energy level you’re trying to create.  If you and your event planner have chosen a theme for the party, a good DJ can help you create a custom playlist that will enhance this theme and make it all the more memorable for your guests.

4) What other advice would you offer to hosts in terms of making music a special part of the event?

Music, for better or worse, sets the tone for any event.  Most people have no idea how much the background music in a room affects the mood and atmosphere.  Music can really reinforce the type of vibe you want to have, so pay close attention to your song selections or hire a professional to do it for you!

Baking for Good is an “online bake sale that supports great causes.”  They offer a variety of treats, ranging from cookies to bars to granola and they all look delicious. Their margarita shortbread, for example, is calling my name.

margarita shortbread from Baking for Good

They even offer gift packs and suites of themed iced sugar cookies. The cookies would be fabulous for a party, a baby or wedding shower, or an engagement party.

iced wedding-themed cookies

How fabulous would it be to share with guests that each bite they take of their sweet treat goes to an even sweeter cause like First Book (one of my favorite non-profits) or The American Cancer Society.

Here’s to all the charitable sweet tooths out there!

There is one app I am sure every bride-to-be is feverishly downloading these days: the Tiffany & Co. Engagement Ring Finder. The app allows you to browse Tiffany’s settings, view carat weights, and find the perfect ring size. The ring sizer is so easy to use — just hold up one of your rings to the screen and adjust until it matches. And, of course, for those whom subtlety eludes, one’s favorite customized ring can be e-mailed. Hint. Hint.

Tiffany & Co Engagement Ring Finder app

customize your own ring

ring sizer

This fun idea need not be used exclusively at weddings. Why not collect wishes at an engagement party, anniversary, or other major milestone? The “wish station” can add an interactive element to any party.

conversation-starting note cards (via Martha Stewart)