the hen's night
This night is a rite of passage as you prepare to pass from singledom into the state of marriage. Some bride's choose to celebrate with a raucous night on the town, while others enjoy a quieter event with their closest friends.
A hen's night is traditionally your last opportunity
for a night out with your girlfriends before you marry. Of course,
there will be many more nights out: but you shouldn't let that stop
you from enjoying yourself and the company of your best friends.
to the fullest
There are no rules regarding who should organise the event. You
may choose to make the arrangements yourself, or leave matters in
the hands of your bridesmaids and friends. If you have decided on
the second option, you should probably prepare for an
unforgettable evening!
If the occasion permits, your hen's night is a good opportunity to
thank your attendants with a small gift each. Perfume, a piece of
jewellery, or some other accessories are popular choices.
your style
Your hen's night should reflect your personality and
style, and be something that you are comfortable with. You might
opt for a relaxed dinner at a favourite restaurant with your dearest
friends, or for an informal, fun evening at someone's home. This
style of get-together gives you the opportunity to swap anecdotes
and reminisce over the times spent together that made you such
close friends. Alternatively, nightclubs, cabaret restaurants, comedy
clubs, or specialty venues that cater to 'women only' interests are
popular hen's night choices.
You may also want to invite your mother along for part of
the evening. Asking her to join you for drinks before you move
on to dance the night away is a thoughtful gesture that includes
her in the fun.
when?
You will want to glow on your wedding day, so allowing
yourself at least a few days to recover from your hen's night is
always advisable. Otherwise, any time is acceptable.
However, if friends from out of
town are coming to join you for your hen's night and the big day, it
would be better to hold the night as close to the actual wedding as
possible to minimise their need to travel.
sense and sensibility
It's important to consider your own safety
as well as the safety of your hen's night guests. If one of your
friends is happy not to drink, ask her if she wouldn't mind being
your designated driver. Alternatively, arrange for taxis, or hire a
chauffeured mini bus. There are many forms of transport available
to ensure you all return home safely at the end of the night.
endless options
And why limit your hen's party experience to just
one night? Many brides-to-be are now opting for a day or weekend
spent together with friends at the beach, in the country, or
luxuriating at a health spa. Visit a vineyard, go hot air ballooning,
indulge in a facial, go horse riding or enjoy an evening at the theatre
followed by a champagne breakfast. These alternatives offer you
the opportunity to de-stress, while enjoying quality time with your
closest friends - an increasingly rare commodity as your wedding
day draws closer.
joining forces
There is also a growing trend for the bride and
groom to join forces and have a combined hen's/buck's night. An
event that includes both your groups of friends can be a lot of fun,
particularly if you decide on a fancy dress party or a BBQ.
Alternatively, you can decide to start the night in separate
locations and meet later in the evening for dinner and dancing.
do remember ...
Your hen's night will be another one of
your treasured wedding day memories. So, whether you decide
on a cosy, relaxed get together, or a night of bar hopping and
dancing, the most important thing is for you and your friends to
enjoy yourselves. |
