I’ve seen few milestones challenge the bond between a Bride-to-Be and her Maid of Honour like a Hen Party can. Even the closest friendships can struggle to survive the rigors of wedding planning. Stories of multi-centre hen parties, topped off with a wedding abroad, exes' new girlfriends crashing at the last minute, and costs piling up—from the cake and party bags to decorations and even the bride's party dress! Oh, we’ve heard it all... But is any of it truly unreasonable? Ask the bride, and you might hear a story very different from her hens—who, given the chance, might just take a couple of hours to explain their side.
We’re here to pose the burning questions everyone is asking but can't seem to answer. We're leaving this open-ended because we’d LOVE to hear your thoughts!
How much is an average hen party?
So, how deep will your pockets need to be? On average, you’re looking at splashing out anywhere from £100 to £250 per person. Yes, you heard that right! Hen parties are not just parties; they’re mini luxury vacations disguised as one wild night or a lavish weekend. And why not? After all, it’s a celebration of the bride's last fling before the ring!
Why are hen parties so expensive?
Oh, the glitz and glam of hen dos come with a hefty price tag. From chic venues and gourmet dining to adrenaline-pumping activities and bespoke hen party bunting, every detail is crafted to tantalise and delight. But let's be real—some of these costs are utterly outrageous. Are we celebrating a milestone or just burning cash for the thrill of it?
Who usually pays for the Hen Party?
Traditionally, the guests cover their own expenses, and sometimes they chip in a bit extra for the bride. But here's where it gets juicy: we've spoken to Maid's of Honour who admit to forking out more to ensure everything is just perfect. Truth? Or martyrship? You decide.
Does the Maid of Honour pay for the hen do?
More often than not, yes, the Maid of Honour plays the role of both planner and financier, making sure the bride has the time of her life without lifting a finger. But should it really be expected? Isn’t it about time we rethink these norms?
Should the bride pay for her own hen party?
Now, this is a contentious one! There are camps that say, “Absolutely, it’s her party!” and others who believe the bride should be pampered and spoilt rotten without spending a dime. What’s your take?
What normally happens at a hen party?
Expect anything from spa days, cocktail making classes, and psychic readings, to wild nights out, dance-offs, and embarrassing stories being shared. It’s a mix of sophisticated and saucy—tailored to the bride’s taste, of course!
Should the mother-in-law go to the hen party?
Oh, the dilemma! Inviting the mother-in-law can add a respectful touch, but it can also dampen the party spirit. It’s a tightrope walk between honour and fun. What’s more important at a hen do, anyway?
How far in advance should a hen do be planned?
Timing is everything! A good rule of thumb is about three to six months in advance. This gives everyone ample time to save the date, and maybe their pennies too.
What not to do on a hen?
Top of the list: Don’t let the bride down! This means no last-minute flaking, no overshadowing the bride, and definitely no inviting that one cousin she secretly despises. Keep the drama low and the spirits high!
How to keep hen party costs down?
Here’s where you can truly shine as the crafty Maid of Honour. Think group deals, local adventures instead of jet-setting, and DIY hen party decorations over pricey professionals. Every little saving is a step towards a more inclusive celebration, without sacrificing the fun.
Do people give gifts at hen parties?
Oh, the pressure of gifting! Yes, gifts are often a thing at hen parties. But, should they be? Isn’t the extravagant party enough of a gift? Some say bring on the presents, while others argue that everyone’s presence and the investment in a killer party are gift enough.
How much do people pay for hen parties?
We’ve touched on this glittery grenade before—expect to shell out anywhere from £100 to a whopping £250 per person. That’s no chump change! Is it time to dial back the extravagance, or should we keep the champagne flowing? What’s a memorable night worth to you?
Do you get a cake for a hen party?
A cake? Absolutely—if you want to! From risqué designs to elegant tiers, the cake can be as tame or as wild as the bride desires. But let's question the norm: why follow the wedding reception playbook? Maybe swap that cake for something more unconventional and memorable!
Do you have to do hen party bags?
Must you? Absolutely not. But, it’s all about those extra touches, isn’t it? Hen party bags can be a sweet way to thank guests for coming. Fill them with fun or useful goodies that won’t just end up in the bin. Think practical, think memorable!
Can you wear jeans to a hen party?
Why not? If the vibe is laid-back chic or it's a casual affair, jeans are perfectly fine. Break the mould! Not every hen do has to be a glitzy gala. Comfort can totally coexist with style.
What do brides wear on their hen night?
Traditionally, it's something that stands out—often white or bright. But who says tradition can’t be tweaked? Shouldn’t the bride flaunt her personal style, whether it's a glamorous dress or a funky jumpsuit? Dress to impress or comfort over couture?
Should a hen party be a surprise?
A surprise hen do can be thrilling but also terrifying for the unprepared bride. Communication is key. Some love the spontaneity; others might appreciate a heads-up. What’s better? The shock and awe or the anticipated excitement?
Can you wear black to a hen party?
Absolutely, darling! Black is chic, slimming, and fabulous. But wait, is it too somber for what's supposed to be a joyous bash? Style it up with some accessories, and you might just have the perfect outfit.
Is it OK to wear white to a hen's party?
Traditionally, white is reserved for the bride. But rules are made to be broken, right? Or should some traditions stand firm to keep the bride shining brightest on her special day? It’s a fine line between fashion faux pas and bridal party chic.
Can you go to a hen party but not the wedding?
Here’s a spicy take: absolutely, yes! Sometimes, it’s just about being part of the fun and the bride’s journey, even if you can’t make the wedding. But let’s stir this pot—does attending only the hen do make your participation less sincere? Or is it all about celebrating in any way you can?
How do you dress like a hen?
Looking to embrace the hen vibe literally? Think feather boas, and maybe a cheeky beak! Just kidding—unless you’re into that. Dressing ‘like a hen’ usually means dressing to theme or simply donning some fabulous party attire that makes you feel as free as a bird!
How do you show pictures at a hen party?
Want to share memories or embarrass the bride a little? Set up a digital slideshow, use a projector, or even scatter photo frames around the party space. It’s all about sharing those giggles and ‘awws.’ But here’s a thought—should some memories stay private, or is all fair in love and hen parties?
How do you make a hen classy?
To elevate your hen do to the heights of elegance, think sophisticated venues, tasteful hen party decorations, and a hint of luxury in every detail. Choose activities that ooze class like a wine tasting or a spa day. But here’s the question: can classy still be wildly fun, or does it risk being a bit, well, dull?
What do you say on a hen invite?
Set the tone with something like, “Join us for a night of mischief and memories as we celebrate [Bride’s Name]’s final fling before the ring!” Make it personal, make it exciting, and above all, make it clear this is going to be an event not to be missed. But how cheeky or formal should you go?
How do I decide who to invite to my hen party?
This can be tricky! Stick to those who are truly meaningful to the bride and who contribute to a positive, fun atmosphere. Remember, it’s quality over quantity. Or should it be a big blowout with everyone included? What’s more important, an intimate gathering or a grand affair?
How to decorate a house for a hen party?
Think themes, colour schemes, and personalised touches that reflect the bride’s personality. Hen Party Balloons, Hen Party Banners, and fairy lights can transform any space into a party paradise. But do you go DIY, or hire a pro and spare the stress? We're all for some DIY (obvs!) but if you're looking to draft in the experts, we are just obsessed with Walter and the Boy and Kelly Louise Floral Artistry
Why do Brits call it a hen party?
This one goes back to the days! ‘Hen’ originally referred to a gathering of women, and it’s stuck through the years. It’s all about the ladies coming together, having a cluck and a chuckle. But does the term ‘hen’ feel dated, or is it a charming nod to tradition?
Navigating the intricate dynamics of hen parties and wedding planning can test even the most enduring friendships. Whether it's the complexity of organizing multi-centre hen parties, the surprise of last-minute additions, or the mounting costs of seemingly every little detail—from decorations to the bride’s very own party dress—the journey to the big day is filled with potential pitfalls. While these events are designed as celebrations, they often come with their own set of dramatic stories and financial burdens. Is it unreasonable to expect such extravagance? Opinions may vary significantly between the bride and her hens, each bringing their unique perspective to the table.
However, amid the chaos and joy, the essential truth remains: these celebrations are about marking a significant transition in life with joy and camaraderie. As we've explored the various facets of hen parties—from who pays to what to wear—it's clear that while the traditions may vary, the underlying intention is to honor the bride's upcoming marriage. Whether through lavish parties or intimate gatherings, the goal is to create lasting memories. We invite you to reflect on these traditions and share your thoughts and experiences. After all, each hen party and wedding planning experience adds a unique thread to the rich tapestry of our social customs. Let's continue this conversation and learn from each other's stories, as we navigate the exciting and sometimes overwhelming world of wedding celebrations.