Bachelor/bachelorette party

Bachelor and bachelorette parties are pre-wedding celebrations honoring the bride or groom-to-be, traditionally organized by the maid of honor, best man, or wedding party. Modern celebrations range from a simple night out to multi-day destination trips.

16 steps across 2 sections

1. Steps Guide

  • Identify the lead planner (6 months before wedding) — Traditionally the maid of honor or best man takes the lead, but responsibilities should be shared among the wedding party. One person coordinat...
  • Consult the guest of honor (5-6 months before) — Discuss preferences: local vs. destination, activity-based vs. nightlife, level of intensity, must-invite guests, dates that work, and any hard boun...
  • Create the guest list (5 months before) — Check with the bride/groom on who to include. Typically: the wedding party, close friends, siblings, and sometimes the couple's mother or future in-laws fo...
  • Establish the budget (4-5 months before) — Have an honest conversation with attendees about what each person can realistically afford. Set the budget based on what the least flexible attendee can m...
  • Choose the date and location (4 months before) — Schedule the party 2-6 weeks before the wedding to avoid last-minute stress. For destination trips, book 8-12 weeks in advance. For local events, 4-...
  • Plan activities and itinerary (3 months before) — Build a balanced itinerary mixing group activities, free time, and at least one signature event. Consider the group's fitness levels, dietary needs...
  • Book accommodations and activities (2-3 months before) — Reserve hotel rooms, Airbnb, restaurant reservations, spa treatments, tours, and any other booked activities. Get confirmation numbers for e...
  • Assign tasks to attendees (2 months before) — Use a shared spreadsheet or planning app. Delegate specific responsibilities: decorations, supplies, transportation, welcome bags, games, matching outf...
  • Collect payments (4-6 weeks before) — Set a payment deadline and use Venmo, Zelle, or Splitwise to collect funds. It is much easier to collect money before the event than after.
  • Execute and enjoy (day of) — Have a printed or shared digital itinerary. Designate someone to handle logistics so the guest of honor can relax. Take plenty of photos but respect everyone's boundari...

2. Key Details

  • Cost breakdown Major expenses include accommodations (30-40% of budget), food and drinks (25-30%), activities and entertainment (15-20%), decorations and supplies (5-10%), and transportation (5-10%). Destination ...
  • Popular bachelorette activities Spa day, wine tasting, cooking class, beach trip, paint and sip, drag brunch, boat cruise, hiking adventure, glamping, wellness retreat, or a themed night out.
  • Popular bachelor activities Golf outing, brewery tour, camping/fishing trip, sporting event, paintball, go-kart racing, steakhouse dinner, casino night, ski trip, or adventure activity (skydiving, zip-lining).
  • Who pays Attendees traditionally split all costs except the guest of honor's share, which is divided among the group. The guest of honor should not pay for anything. If budget is tight, scale down the event...
  • Destination party costs Average $1,000-$2,000+ per person for a weekend trip including flights, accommodations, food, and activities. Communicate total estimated costs to all attendees before they commit.
  • Matching items Customized T-shirts, sashes, hats, tumblers, or accessories are a popular tradition. Budget $10-$30 per person for these items.

Common Mistakes

  • Not checking everyone's budget first
  • Scheduling too close to the wedding
  • Planning activities the guest of honor would not enjoy
  • Not having a clear itinerary
  • Failing to collect money upfront

Pro Tips

  • Create a shared planning document
  • Book refundable reservations when possible
  • Plan one signature surprise
  • Designate a social media policy
  • Include a rest day before traveling home

Sources

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