Introduction
The Bachelorette Party is much more than just an evening out with friends. It's a powerful, symbolic moment, a sort of ‘last hurrah’ between friends before the bride-to-be says ‘I do’ for life. The expression may make you smile, but it carries with it a whole ritual of passage, sometimes delirious, often moving, and above all eagerly awaited. Historically, this kind of event was much more discreet, if not non-existent. It was born in response to the stag party, to redress the balance of the festivities. In recent years, it has taken a festive, creative and totally personalised turn.
Looking for ways to organise a successful stag do? This handy guide covers everything: guest lists, activities, budget and venues. Follow our tips for a memorable EVJF.
How to organise an EVJF: key aspects of organisation
Who to invite
The guest list is one of the most crucial elements of a successful EVJF. So who should you invite to your special day? The first question to ask is: who are the people closest to the bride-to-be? Witnesses, bridesmaids, close friends and, of course, family members such as a sister or cousin are essential guests to consider. It's always a good idea to consult the bride-to-be directly to make sure the guest list matches her wishes. After all, it's her day, and nothing should be left to chance. This not only ensures that the right people are present, but also avoids any faux pas.
Finally, to avoid overly complex organisation, we recommend limiting the number of guests to between 10 and 15. This ensures a convivial atmosphere and makes the event easier to manage.
Setting a date
This is the first decision you have to make, and it's not always the easiest. Too soon before the wedding? You forget the final details of the big day. Too late? You run the risk of tiring out the bride just before the big day. The ideal time is often between one and three months before the wedding. You also need to take into account the availability of the participants. A doodle or Google Form can work wonders to simplify the choices. And if possible, plan a back-up date, because life is rarely a smooth ride.
Also look out for local events that could affect the booking of a venue or accessibility (festivals, bank holidays, school holidays...). In short, choosing a date requires a bit of flair, a lot of diplomacy and a pinch of luck.
Defining the budget
The budget is often a tricky question, but one that is essential to the success of the EVJF. The first step is to ask the guests about their financial capabilities in order to establish a realistic budget. It's important to compare prices to choose options that suit everyone's budget and desires. The EVJF budget should be shared equally between all the participants, with the exception of the bride. It is advisable to collect the funds at least 2 months before the event to avoid any last-minute stress. In general, the budget per person for an EVJF varies between €75 and €150, or even more, depending on the activities planned.
For optimum management, draw up a detailed estimate and suggest price ranges when you do the survey: less than €100, between €100 and €200, and more. Planning staggered payments can also help to ensure that all participants can finance the event. Don't forget to include an extra margin of 20 to 30 euros for unforeseen circumstances.
Choosing your destination and accommodation
Where to go?
This is probably one of the most important points: the location of the EVJF. It must be suited to the number of participants, the theme chosen and the type of activities planned. A villa with a swimming pool for a relaxing weekend? A cottage in the countryside for a nature EVJF? A stylish city-centre flat for a night out? It all depends on the atmosphere you want to create. Renting a place allows you to put down your suitcases, decorate to your heart's content, plan workshops or games without worrying about noise, and above all... live together for 24 hours or more.
And to avoid unpleasant surprises, make sure you check the rental conditions, the capacity, the arrival and departure times and the equipment available (crockery, sound system, bedding, etc.). And above all, book well in advance, especially if the EVJF is taking place during the holidays or a bank holiday.
Accommodation
Accommodation is another crucial aspect of organising an EVJF. There are many options: hotels, villas, youth hostels. Around a third of the EVJF budget is usually spent on accommodation. It's important to compare prices carefully and book in advance to guarantee your choice. Youth hostels can offer budget options, while villas and flats can provide a more luxurious and private setting. Make sure that the accommodation you choose is comfortable for everyone involved and that it is conveniently located for the activities you have planned. This minimises travel and maximises celebration time.
Our 10 theme ideas for an EVJF
If you're short of inspiration, here are a few tried-and-tested theme ideas for a top-notch EVJF:
1. Bohemian chic theme
A bohemian EVJF is the perfect option for a sweet, natural, dreamy bride-to-be. The atmosphere is light and romantic, with pastel tones, dried flowers and flowing fabrics. Ideal for an outdoor day full of serenity and togetherness.
Activities: flower-wreathing workshop, yoga or meditation session in the open air, chic picnic on rugs with colourful cushions, photo shoot in a field or forest, organic wine tasting or healthy brunch.
2. 90s/2000s theme
Make way for nostalgia and retro vibes! This theme takes everyone back to the days of cassette tapes, the Spice Girls and low-rise jeans. Fun, colourful and totally offbeat, it's guaranteed to create a crazy atmosphere full of memories.
Activities: Playlist of hits from the era, dance battle to Britney and the Spice Girls, team bride T-shirt customisation workshop, old school board games (Twister, Puissance 4), sleepover with sweets, cult films & popcorn.
3. Nautical theme
Perfect for a bride who loves water, sea air and relaxation, this theme invites you to take to the sea. Sailboats, a blue and white atmosphere, seashell decorations and a seaside holiday spirit.
Activities: Boat or paddle outing, brunch with a view of the sea or picnic on the beach, oyster or seafood tasting, building sandcastles for the bride, photobooth with sailors' hats, anchors, etc.
4. Festival / Coachella theme
Inspired by music festivals such as Coachella, this theme is ideal for a bride who is free, creative and connected to her arty side. Sequins, eccentric looks and an electric atmosphere under the sun.
Activities: Creation of hippie-style outfits or accessories, body painting & glitter make-up, mini acoustic concerts or private DJ, DIY bracelet or dream catcher workshops, free dancing at sunset.
5. Glamour/glitter theme
For a bride who loves to shine, this theme transforms your wedding day into a veritable red carpet. With its VIP party atmosphere, glitter and rhinestones, it's an ultra-feminine and sophisticated occasion. An opportunity to feel like a star with your girlfriends.
Activities: red carpet photo shoot, make-up or manicure workshop, cocktail & karaoke evening, sexy dance classes (burlesque, chair dance), dinner in a chic restaurant followed by a nightclub.
6. Spa & Wellbeing theme
For a bride-to-be who wants to relax, this theme offers a bubble of calm and pampering. Forget the stress of the preparations and pamper yourself with friends in a warm, zen atmosphere.
Activities: Spa day (massage, hammam, sauna), yoga or relaxation class, natural cosmetics workshop (scrub, lip balm), smoothie bar or herbal tea tasting, candle evening, plaid & confidences.
7. Adventure theme
This theme is for thrill-seekers and groups who aren't afraid of action. A day full of challenges, movement and high-intensity laughter!
Activities: Climbing park or zip line, giant outdoor escape game, personalised Olympics (races, relays, quizzes), paintball or laser game, orienteering race or city rally.
8. Unicorn or princess theme
For the bride-to-be who's still a big kid. Pastel colours, fairytale decor, cupcakes, colourful cocktails and inflatable unicorns galore.
Activities: Unicorn costume or pink tutu, cupcake or rainbow cocktail workshop, fairytale photobooth, magical treasure hunt, ‘Disney only’ karaoke session.
9. Around the world theme
Ideal for a globe-trotting bride or a lover of foreign cultures. Each activity takes you to a new country, without leaving your party venue!
Activities: foreign cooking classes (sushi, tapas, mezze), international wine tasting, world dance workshop (samba, bollywood, afro), decoration of each room as a country, cultural quiz on the bride-to-be.
10. Pyjama Party XXL theme
A return to childhood and a sweet moment to share laughter, confidences and comfort. Comfortable, cocooning and 100% relaxing, this is the perfect theme for an evening at home.
Activities: fun pyjama parade, group facials and masks, ‘truth or dare’ games, blind test, love quiz, romantic film or girly comedy, creation of a souvenir book as a group.
The choice of theme is often what makes all the difference. It gives visual and narrative coherence to the event, makes for great photos and leaves a lasting impression.
Must-do activities
Photo shoots with props and photobooth
There's nothing like a good photo shoot to immortalise this unique day. Whether you use a professional photographer or a well-used smartphone, the most important thing is to capture the smiles, the outfits and the moments of togetherness. Set up a photobooth area with a background in keeping with the theme (garlands, balloons, colourful curtains, etc.) and plan plenty of fun accessories: hats, glasses, boas, ‘team bride’ signs, etc. Guaranteed results on Instagram!
And don't forget: think about making a photo album to give to the bride later on, or a video souvenir of the best moments of the weekend. It's the kind of gift that touches the heart.
Spa, well-being and relaxation
Not every bride-to-be dreams of a nightclub EVJF. For some, the ultimate luxury is to relax. If that's the case, why not opt for a spa day, with massages, hammam, jacuzzi, organic herbal teas and a Zen playlist? You can book into a wellness centre or hire a private spa. Some villa rentals even have built-in spas. And if you want to go all out, have a beautician come to your home for facials, manicures or massages.
Add to this a little wellness brunch or a smoothie workshop, and you've got the perfect activity to pamper the bride-to-be in the way she deserves.
Dance lessons or surprise choreography
Want to get everyone moving? There's nothing like a dance class to boost the atmosphere and create hilarious memories. Whether it's a sexy Beyoncé-style choreography, an 80s routine or even a flashmob to the bride's favourite song, anything goes.
And if you film the whole thing, it can become a surprise video to show during the wedding. Just imagine the bride's face when she sees her whole team choreographing to a frenzied hit? Guaranteed success!
Creative or culinary workshops
Creative and culinary workshops are all the rage at EVJFs. Why are they so popular? Because they give everyone a chance to express themselves, leave with a creation and, above all, enjoy a quiet moment together.
On the creative side, you can organise a workshop to make jewellery, scented candles, homemade cosmetics, or even canvas painting. It's a chance to personalise objects, learn something new and have a laugh at the sometimes... highly original creations!
On the culinary side, think about cocktail workshops, cookery classes, or wine, cheese or pastry tastings. An instructor will come to your home with all the equipment, or you can visit a local workshop.
Escape game, karaoke, rally or Olympics
If you're looking for ideas for fun and original activities for an EVJF, these options are nuggets! They'll create a great atmosphere, strengthen the team spirit and guarantee epic memories.
- Escape game : lock yourself in a room and try to get out by solving puzzles. A variety of themes (horror, science fiction, investigation...) and lots of laughs guaranteed. There are also outdoor versions!
- Karaoke : a sure bet. Make sure you have a playlist of cult songs and get the microphones going. Even the shyest of you will end up letting loose (especially after a cocktail or two!).
- Urban rally : discover a city through riddles, challenges and tests. Many service providers offer special EVJF rallies with entertainers and ready-to-use kits.
- Friendship Olympics : create teams and organise mini-games (sack races, quizzes, speed tests, etc.). It's fun, unifying and completely delirious.
- Night out: restaurant, bar, nightclub
An EVJF worthy of the name (often) ends with a memorable evening. And what better way to do it than with a well-organised night out? The trifecta: restaurant + bar + nightclub. And if you're staying in the same area or everything is within walking distance, even better!
Start with dinner in a nice restaurant, ideally in keeping with the theme of the EVJF. Then head for an atmospheric bar: personalised cocktails, bar games, entertainment, or even a private area. And finally, end the evening in style with a wild night out at the club: dance floor, fancy dress and wild choreography.
And don't forget safety : return transport provided, moderation on alcohol, and a designated nightlight if necessary. The aim is to have a party, not to end up in A&E!
Managing the logistics of the EVJF
The final preparations are crucial if everything is to go smoothly on the big day. Check all the necessary documents and equipment the day before departure to avoid forgetting anything. Drawing up a list of things to take with you can be very useful.
Check the service providers to make sure that all the bookings are in order and that the activities will take place as planned. Prepare a back-up solution in case of last-minute surprises to avoid panic.
Gifts and souvenirs
Gifts and souvenirs add a special touch to the EVJF. Providing tokens and small gifts for the bride is a great idea. A special gift can include meaningful items that reflect her tastes.
Personalised scarves and badges are an excellent souvenir idea for guests. Elastic bracelets with ‘Team Bride’ themes can strengthen the bond between guests. Using a photobooth and organising a prize draw for small gifts can add fun and create lasting memories.
Conclusion
Organising a memorable EVJF requires planning, coordination and a lot of love. By following the steps in this guide, you can create a unique and unforgettable event for the bride-to-be and her guests. From selecting guests and managing the budget, to choosing activities and gifts, every detail counts to make this special event a success.
At the end of the day, the most important thing is to ensure that the bride has a wonderful time surrounded by those closest to her. With the right organisation and a personal touch, you can make this wedding day an unforgettable experience that will mark the beginning of a new and beautiful stage in the bride-to-be's life.
FAQ
How many people should I invite to an EVJF?
For an EVJF, it's ideal to invite between 10 and 15 people. This keeps the organisation simple and promotes a warm atmosphere.
When should you hold a hen party?
Set the date of the hen party around 3 to 5 months in advance to ensure that you are well organised and avoid scheduling conflicts. This will allow you to make the most of this special moment!
How to manage the budget of a hen do?
To effectively manage the budget of a hen do, consider creating an online pot and using tools like Slipewise to track payments and expenses. This will help you stay organised and avoid financial surprises.
What activities for a hen do?
For a memorable hen do, opt for activities such as a bride-themed treasure hunt, a fun photo shoot, or even a dance class. These creative and playful moments will strengthen your bonds and ensure an unforgettable day!
Who pays for a hen do?
Generally, the guests share the costs and offer this gift to the bride-to-be.
