AD | Being someone’s maid of honour and planning their hen do can feel like an impossible task to start. You need to organise the trip, manage budgets, communicate with the bride’s friends and most importantly, make it fun. However, the best way to get on with something is to start, develop a bit of a plan and extend it as you go.
Here are a few things to consider if you are planning a hen do for your loved one.
Think of the bride
First things first, a hen do is an opportunity to celebrate with the bride and do what she wants to do. Ask her what she definitely does not want at her hen do, and anything she has her heart set one. If she doesn’t want a cringe-worthy stripper, do not organise one.
Base your plans on what the bride wants, and hopefully, as her best friend, you should have a pretty good idea of what she likes.
The logistics
You need to decide on a date for the hen do, how long you are away and how far ahead of the wedding it will be. Make sure the date works for everyone and get it in your diaries as soon as possible!
Organise how you will get to the destination, accommodation and every activity before leaving for the trip. Whether you’re catching a train to Hastings or a flight to Ibiza – you need to plan. If there’s more than four of you, you will need minibuses to get around or multiple cars. Book taxis in advance and consider booking a few activities and restaurants that you really want to do. These things sell out quickly, and you don’t want a disappointed bride on your hands!
Invite the right people
Reach out to the bride’s best friends, family members and important women in her life. You can also invite her male friends if it feels appropriate – it all depends on who she wants there. Make a group chat with all the hens and start asking people about their budgets, family circumstances and availability. For example, if most of the hens have children and busy work life, they might not be able to make a week-long trip to The Maldives. A UK staycation may be more doable.
Stay on top of payments
As a budget manager, you may feel a little nervous about paying for accommodation, flights and activities all from your own account. Ask everyone to pre-pay you before you book things so you can stay on top of payments and budgeting without putting yourself out of pocket.
Enjoy the hen do and try to have fun!