For every successful Hens’ Night, there are at least 10 that don’t quite ‘hit the mark.’ Surely bringing together a bunch of women to celebrate the impending nuptials of a dear friend over a few drinks can’t be that hard to arrange, can it? Well, actually, there are a number of factors you’ll need to take into account when planning a hens’ night. Here are the top three things you should consider.
Find Out What Your Hen Wants
It’s amazing the number of hens’ nights that are organised entirely without any input from the bride-to-be. You might think it’s a great idea to keep them out of the loop (it incorporates the element of surprise, after all), but this approach can often lead to disappointment for all involved. If she’s got her heart set on a meal at the local down-to-earth restaurant followed by a night of karaoke, there’s probably no need to arrange a harbour cruise and a four course meal. You might have been picked as her Maid of Honour, but that doesn’t mean you have all the answers. Establish her comfort levels and cater your night accordingly. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the occasion, but remember: your number one priority should be keeping the hen happy. It sounds like a daunting assignment but there’s no rule saying you can’t ask for help. Delegate tasks amongst your bridesmaids to ensure that no stone is left unturned during the planning phase.
Plan In Advance
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| Don't forget the accessories! |
These days, it’s not uncommon for weddings to be planned several years in advance. There’s no need to be quite that efficient when it comes to planning a hens’ night, but you don’t want to leave it to the last minute, either. Compile your guest list and aim for a date about two weeks out from the big day. If you have a large number of guests arriving from interstate or overseas, it’s a good idea to narrow the gap further. Distribute invitations at least two months out from the party. The quicker you can receive confirmation of attendance, the quicker you can finalise your arrangements. Popular venues get snapped up quickly, so it pays to plan (and book) well in advance.
Strike a Balance
Hens’ nights are traditionally classified into two categories – dignified, low-key gatherings and fast-paced, wilder affairs. Fortunately, there is a way you can combine fun and excitement with class and sophistication. To add a little bit of ‘X-factor’ to your Hens’ night without venturing into the male stripper zone, consider hiring a number of professional and well-sculpted topless waiters from companies such as Evotique Entertainment. Alternatively, you could combine all the usual naughty games and paraphernalia with a simple dinner out at a classy restaurant, sans strippers and hangovers. Depending on the Bride, this could very well be the perfect balance for the evening.
Anything can happen on a hen’s night – and while you can’t always predict the behaviour of your guests, you can take steps to ensure that it is a truly memorable occasion for all involved.
Have you recently planned a hens’ celebration for a friend? What worked? What didn’t work? Share your experiences and tips by commenting below.
