The Ultimate Guide to Hen Dos

When it comes to celebrating the bride to be, a hen do is one of the most anticipated and cherished events of the wedding celebrations. It’s a time for the bride to bond with her closest friends, let her hair down, and enjoy one last hurrah before the big day. However, planning a hen do can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. From finding the right activities to balancing the personalities of everyone involved, there’s a lot to think about!

In this post, we’re going to break down the key elements of a memorable hen do for better or for worse, because no matter what, you’re going to have a blast!

A hen do should reflect what the bride loves. The most important part of planning is knowing what she wants to do. While some brides envision a wild night out, others may prefer a relaxing spa weekend or an adventure-filled trip. Don’t be afraid to ask the bride directly or use subtle cues to figure out her ideal celebration.

• For the Party Girl: Plan a night on the town, complete with dancing, cocktails, and plenty of surprises. Consider going to a fancy restaurant followed by a nightclub, or hire a party bus to keep things lively all night long.
• For the Adventure Seeker: If she’s into adrenaline, organise an action-packed day of zip-lining, go-karting, or even a weekend trip to a destination with adventure activities like hiking, surfing, or a cooking class.
• For the Chill Bride: Think of something low-key but special—a weekend getaway to a countryside cottage, a day at a spa, or a wine-tasting event. It’s all about quality time with her closest friends.

Once you’ve figured out the bride’s vibe, it’s time to put together the guest list. A hen do is a chance for the bride to connect with the people she loves most, but keeping everyone happy can be tricky. Here are a few tips:

• Keep it small and intimate if the bride prefers close-knit groups and quiet chats.
• Go big if she thrives on group activities and loves having all her friends involved.
• Include her family members or not? This is a common dilemma. If the bride wants to have a wild night, you might want to keep things just to her friends. But if she’s more reserved, her family might be a welcome addition to the celebration.

Variety is the spice of life, and the same goes for hen dos. It’s important to have a mix of activities to keep things exciting and enjoyable for everyone.

• Icebreaker Games are perfect for easing any nerves and helping people who don’t know each other well get acquainted. A fun round of “Never Have I Ever” or a hen do scavenger hunt can get everyone involved and laughing.
• Pampering can be a relaxing way to break up the festivities. Whether it’s booking a spa day or having beauty treatments like nails or make-up done, it’s an opportunity for the group to unwind together.
• Themed Parties are always a fun idea. Whether it’s fancy dress, a retro theme, or a “Murder Mystery” dinner, themes provide everyone with a reason to get creative and set the tone for the event.
• Unusual Experiences can be a quirky addition. Think pole dancing classes, cocktail-making workshops, or even a private yacht ride. It’s the kind of thing that will make the hen do feel extra special and memorable.

Now, onto one of the most fun parts, the outfits! While it’s common for the bride to wear a sash, veil, or some form of bridal accessory, there’s no need to go over the top with the dress code unless the bride insists on it. Here’s how to keep it stylish and fun:

• Themed Outfits can unite the group and make for fantastic photos. From matching T-shirts to coordinated costumes, think about the vibe the bride is going for.
• Comfortable yet Stylish is always a good rule. You don’t want anyone to be uncomfortable during the festivities, especially when it comes to shoes! Plan for a range of activities that allow for both comfort and style.
• Personalised Touches like custom t-shirts or hats with funny quotes can make the day feel unique to the bride.

While most hen do’s go off without a hitch, things don’t always go as planned. Whether it’s a late arrival, unexpected weather, or a little bit too much alcohol, it’s important to be prepared for the “worse” moments too. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Don’t Stress Over Perfection: Things might not always go according to plan, and that’s perfectly fine. A little hiccup might turn into the best story of the day.
• Be Flexible: If something doesn’t go according to schedule, be open to changing plans on the fly. The focus should be on having fun and celebrating the bride, not following a strict itinerary.
• Safety First: If the party involves drinking, make sure everyone has a safe way to get home. Group taxis, car services, or public transport can ensure no one’s left stranded after a fun night out.

You’ll want to have memories from this special day, so make sure to hire a photographer or designate a couple of people to take photos throughout the event. You can even take it a step further and have a photo booth with fun props to capture some hilarious moments!

Creating a memory book or hen do scrapbook is also a great way to keep the memories alive. Collect photos, quotes, and mementos throughout the event to give the bride a beautiful keepsake.

As the hen do comes to a close, make sure to send the bride off in style with a special toast or heartfelt moment. Whether it’s a speech, a toast, or even just a quiet moment together, it’s important to remind the bride of how loved she is by all the amazing women around her.

Planning a hen do is all about celebrating the bride, creating lasting memories, and having a great time with friends. Whether it’s an action-packed weekend away or a relaxed spa retreat, remember that the best part is the time spent together. So, here’s to celebrating for better, for worse, and everything in between!