Getting Engaged ...
Today engagements do not carry any legal obligations but this period of time acts as a very useful period to think on before the decision to marry takes place.
Once a couple become engaged they usually tell there parents that they have decide to get married. It is normally traditional to inform the future brides parents first. At this stage it is prudent practise to acertain that there are no objections to getting married and everyone is happy about it.
Couples usually tell close friends and relatives themselves either in person or by telephone or more normally now using email. It can be common practise to write or send a card of your engagement.