Traditionally hen and stag parties were arranged during the week before the wedding, but with this being such a busy time it has become more popular to organise the night more in advance of the wedding day.
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You need to decide early on what sort of a “do” it will be; a night-out at a local pub, club  or restaurant, or even an activity weekend at a hotel: hiking, trekking, shooting, golf, or a murder mystery.
For the hen ‘do’, “themed” nights can be great fun: a 70’s night, Greek Goddesses, Flintstones, St Trinians, Marilyn Monroe, nurses, punk rockers - the choice is limitless. Check with the venue that your choice of theme is acceptable.
For the stag, maybe a city break, a day out at the races or a weekend in Amsterdam.
For Hens and Stags, maybe you’d like to get ready for your big day and pamper yourselves “top to toe” at a health club on one of the nights during the week before your wedding. Have a Swedish massage, a salt rub, aromatherapy, pedicure, mud wraps, with a bit of stress therapy thrown in as well.
Work out a budget that all involved can afford before making a booking and giving a deposit - collect everyone’s monies beforehand. Ask the venue for written confirmation and a receipt for your deposit. Send out your invitations explaining any “themes”, etc along with a reply slip and final date for acceptance and keep the venue informed of any number changes. Confirm final arrangements nearer the date, with both the venue and your guests. However you decide to celebrate set the date and make the arrangements as soon as possible to avoid disappointment, especially if you will need to book overnight or weekend accommodation.
Explain to the venue that it’s your hen/stag night and they may come up with thoughts on how they can help to make it even more fun - a novelty cake, entertainment, balloon decorations, party poppers, the local “kissagram” service.
Travelling together in a limousine or a mini bus is wiser and cheaper, and the drink may be provided.
- Organise a meeting with all the people involved
- Decide how much you can afford to spend
- Nominate someone to collect monies
- Keep in mind any special requirements such as wheelchair facilities or special diets
- Decide a theme
- Arrange hire of outfits or have T-shirts printed
- Tell the venue that you are planning your “do”, they may give you a few surprises
- For treatments at a Spa and when booking hotel accommodation, ask about about multi-booking discounts
- Designate a sensible friend to “look after the Hen or Stag” if it becomes necessary
- Book your limousine or transport well in advance
- Confirm bookings in writing and get receipt for deposits
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