Planning A Great Bachelorette Party

In the current era of women's empowerment, bachelor parties are matched with fun and exciting bachelorette parties for the ladies. Some basic tips on how to plan a great bachelorette party can be followed by anyone, from a seasoned pro at hosting parties to a novice.

First, virtually anyone can offer to host a bachelorette party. Usually the maid of honor or bridesmaids take the lead in planning the party, but any friend or relative can plan the party. An important tip in bachelorette party planning is that if you need to make reservations for a show or other activity, you'll want guests to formally RSVP. No matter who takes charge, all interested ladies should have some input in planning the bachelorette party, and the bride herself can be consulted to determine what she thinks would be a fun time.

Bachelorette parties usually include all the bridesmaids and closets female friends of the bride, which may include a few relatives, neighbors, or coworkers. A bachelorette party is usually a relatively small group, and definitely under 20 people. Around 10 or fewer girls is usually ideal, so that planning and going out aren't difficult.

As for the date of a bachelorette party, don't plan it for the night before the wedding, the last thing the bride needs to be thinking about is a possible hangover or going home early from her own party. One good option is to have the bachelorette party the same weekend as the bachelor party, so you may want to coordinate with the groom to get the date set.

Planning is very individual to the group giving the party. One girl can take the lead, or a group can plan together, such as all the bridesmaids or a clique from college. Some bachelorette hosts ask for donations from each guest, but the bride shouldn't be expected to contribute to the fund. Bachelorette parties, especially those hosted in someone's home, don't have to be expensive, and can even be potluck events. Bachelorette parties are usually very informal and free form.

Bachelorette parties are more laid-back and less structured than traditional bridal showers, and there is no "typical" bash. What usually comes to mind, though, is a group of giggling girls and a bride dressed up in a funny shirt or veil. You can paint the town red if that suits the bride, but you can also have other celebrations. You can opt for a nice dinner out, a concert, or a party at someone's house, including a possible slumber party, especially if some of the guests are from out of town. If you do go out, make sure that all the guests know how to dress - do you have a theme color or is everyone going to wear a feather boa? Are you all bringing items for the bride to wear, like a novelty tee-shirt and a veil?

The bachelorette party is not a gift party in the same way a shower is, but presents are usually given that are silly or a bit naughty. Encourage guests to buy inexpensive gag gifts, sexy gifts, or lingerie for the wedding night.