Bachelor and bachelorette parties are a rite of passage as much as they are a party. They mark the transition from a single independent lifestyle into the commitments of married life.
In recent years, both bachelor and bachelorette parties have become a lot more creative. Drinking and sexuality are no longer mandatory activities at these events. Camaraderie and celebration are more the order of the day. Men may go out to sporting events, play sports themselves or head out for a hike in the woods. Women enjoy days at the spa, camping trips or head off to a restaurant for a gourmet dinner.

As you plan to host one of these fun pre-wedding events, here are the basics that you’ll need to keep in mind.

Bachelor and Bachelorette Party Planning Considerations

These events are usually organized by members of the bridal party.
In no case does the bride or groom pay for their activities. The participants in the party pay the full bill. Be sure you plan an activity that is affordable to those who will cover the bill.
It’s okay to surprise the bride or groom with the activity that has been planned for the send-off party.
That said, you should keep in mind the personality and wishes of the bride or groom. Although everyone else in the bridal party may expect and desire a stripper, the preferences of the honoree need to be respected. Don’t embarrass the bride or groom with a stripper if you really know that wouldn’t amuse them.
These parties are a great opportunity to warmly roast the bride or groom, and to make a few off-color jokes about married life (again, as long as you know the guest-of-honor won’t be offended). Therefore, plan for lots of amusing toasts. You might ask a few guests to prepare a toast in advance to get things started.
Anyone who is invited to the bachelor/bachelorette party should be on the guest list for the wedding.
Don’t plan this party for the night before the wedding. Both the bride and groom want to be at their best for the big day, and if alcohol is involved, that’s not likely to be the case. Even with a more mellow kind of party, there’s usually lots of last minute details for the bride or groom to attend to the day before the wedding.
On the following pages you’ll find more specific ideas for planning each of these parties.

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