Archive for August, 2010

Bachelorette Party Invitations

Since we discussed who should be invited to a bachelorette party in our last posting, it only seems logical to now talk about the invitations themselves!

It may not seem like it at first glance, but the invitation can be one of the most important parts of planning a bachelorette party. Imagine getting a bachelorette party invitation on a plain white piece of paper with a plain font, simply stating time and address. Most likely, the recipient would be very confused. The poor befuddled attendees wouldn’t know whether to dress for a wild night at the club or a refined lunch party!

The invitation is the first and best way to let everyone know what to expect from the party. If you’re planning a wild and raunchy romp, make sure the invitations reflect that. They can be a little naughty or downright sexy. Add brightly colored glitter or confetti in the envelope for an even glitzier look. On the other hand, if you’re planning a fancy dinner or luncheon in a high class restaurant, or something of that nature, it’s probably best to tone down the invitations to match. Look for light colors, such as white or pastels, or dark, muted colors with gold or silver lettering. To match with the overall theme of elegance, a flowing script or calligraphic lettering might enhance the invitation.

Those who are receiving the invitations also play a role in their selection. For instance, if the mothers of the bride and groom are invited, they might not want overly lewd invitations sitting around their house. Of course, if the mothers are being invited, it’s likely that sort of invitation isn’t appropriate for the type of party anyway. Also, if the bride prefers the less traditional co-ed bachelorette party, the male friends in attendance probably don’t want to be receiving invitations featuring either attractive men or too many pink frills. In general, the most important thing to remember when choosing or making bachelorette invitations is to match them to the event and to the invitees.

Who Should You Invite?

One of the most exciting parts of getting married is having your bachelorette party! A bachelorette party is when you get your bridesmaids and other guests together for some fun and excitement before the wedding. Las Vegas is a popular hot spot for bachelorette parties, but you can make any gathering memorable as long as you invite the right people. Typically, the maid of honor is to plan and organize the party as the bride will usually be busy planning the wedding.

The most important thing to consider when planning a bachelorette party is who to invite. Those attending can make or break the event, so it’s important to consider relationships carefully. More than likely, all the bridesmaids are close friends to the bride and will automatically get an invite. If you are planning on having a mild mannered party, one without alcohol or inappropriate games, you may consider inviting female family members of the groom such as his siblings or even the mother-in-law-to-be.

Some may want to have a co-ed party, which would mean you’re able to invite male members to the party. While this is not traditional, many couples choose to have a party which can include everyone. Sometimes the bride has both male and female friends which she has kept since high school or longer, and would prefer all of her closest friends to be a part of the special event. Avoid inviting those who may cause drama or have disputes with other members of the bridal party and always keep in mind the bride’s best interest. This event is all about her!

When Should You Have the Bachelorette Party?

This isn’t as simple a question as it may appear. Weddings can be very complex affairs that may encompass several social engagements, such as the bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, a bridesmaids’ party, a bachelor party for the groom, and, of course, the newer custom of having a bachelorette party for the bride.

Organizing the bachelorette party is typically the responsibility of the maid-of-honor or the bride’s sister – someone who is close to the bride and knows her tastes. The party should be scheduled at least two weeks prior to the wedding, so as not to unduly crowd the bride’s hectic pre-wedding calendar. Up to a month before the wedding is the norm. Make sure to consider whether the bride will have any restrictions, as many brides can be strict about what their exercise routines, as well as what they eat and drink for a period before the wedding.

Planning for the bachelorette party should begin several months before the event. Consult with the bride on who she wishes to attend, and get their phone numbers and email addresses from her. Discuss with these women what date works for the majority of them.

If you want to keep the party a surprise, hide the theme of the party from the bride. Surprise her with something you know she would enjoy, like a day at a spa or an amusement park. Other possibilities include a pajama party, a camping or canoe trip, dinner and drinks at a fine restaurant, a night of dancing, hiring a male stripper for a private party (if you know the bride would not be offended), or engaging in a hobby or sport that the bride enjoys. If travel will be involved, arrange for group rates at a hotel. If drinking will be involved, consider hiring a limo service. Have fun, but be safe