What makes a great bachelorette party? Some girls say it is going out to bars, flirting with guys, and drinking shots all night long. Other girls, especially slightly older brides, find that they aren't looking for a situation that will only make them feel uncomfortable.
If you are planning a bachelorette party for a more reserved friend, or a girl who doesn't drink, how do you still make sure she has a fun event? Are there rules for planning a bachelorette party?
First, there are no set rules for bachelorette party planning. There are, however, several key elements that make a bachelorette party a success. The first step is to determine the expectations of the bride. Does she want to stay in? Does she want to invite twenty girls, or only six? Does she have a restaurant she wants to visit, a concert she'd like to go to, or would she prefer an at home gathering?
Other keys to keeping a bachelorette party at a low price tag is to have an at home party. You can buy alcohol cheaper at a liquor store than paying for drinks in a bar. Food can be as simple as ordering pizzas and baking some cookies. Decorations can also be low cost. You can make a room really sparkle with just some balloons and a few banners, anything that signifies "bachelorette party!" A color as the theme helps keep decorating a low cost endeavor. You can choose pink or red, for example, and use streamers and balloons to decorate.
Or, try a theme centered on the groom, such as a "girly" football party for a girl who is marrying a huge football fan. This party can include all the guests wearing football gear like jerseys and the food being a tailgate style. No matter what theme you choose, make sure that it fits the bride, and your bachelorette party will be more successful.
As for presents for the bride, at a bachelorette party they are optional. It is often more fun to have gag gifts, which are usually very inexpensive. Buy her a tawdry romance novel. Give her a bottle of massage oil. These are items that are bachelorette party appropriate but won't break the bank.
Finally, remember to focus entirely on the bride. Have the girls each share a special story about a funny moment with the bride, or to write down their favorite memory of her. Then, take turns reading the memories and have the bride guess who wrote what. It is a good bonding experience and reminds everyone why they love the bride and lets guests who don't know each other well get to know each other better before the wedding.
Whatever you do for your bachelorette party, remember that the key to a great party is the love you put into it and the friends you have gathered.
