Engagement Party questions

For any hosted event, it's considered inappropriate to have guests open their wallets. If I receive an invitation to an engagement party, bridal luncheon, etc, and it said I would have to pay my own way, it would be a little off putting (and I probably wouldn't attend especially if I have to travel) considering I had zero say in the restaurant.

Hi ! I was invited to a party type "bachelorette" by 2 MOH of a friend. I had to leave early as I had to travel another morning. 2 days after I received a demand to pay "my part" of the evening, so everything that was eaten and drunk (even after my departure) divided by number of guests + everyone paying for the bride. I paid, cause I don't really know those people well, but still... However, it wouldn't bother me to pay my part, if I'm invited to the wedding after all.

Like others have said, this wouldn't be appropriate. Guests should never be expected to pay for their own food or drinks at a hosted event like an engagement party.

No, this would not be appropriate for an engagement party. The hosts would need to cover the costs

You as the hosts would need to cover the costs, as mentioned here. An alternative would be to have an event at home or in a backyard with a smaller number of guests and serve something simple, like pizza and beer.