7 simple rules for hen or stag planning 11964 views

Whether it’s a hen or a stag event you’re planning, following some basic rules will help ensure a memorable time is had and tempers aren’t frayed. By Sarah Richardson.

1. Consult the main man or woman

First and foremost, remember that the bride or groom should have the main say in the style of event they want. Any little surprises can be worked into the plan later. Do also consider all the guests’ maximum budget before making a final decision, remembering that the most costly events are not necessarily the best. Also bear in mind that the more notice people have, the more likely it is that they’ll be able to make it.

2. Take care with the guest list

The guest list will depend partly on the type of event you’re planning. A very low-key affair might involve just two or three very close friends, but if you’re planning something more elaborate it’ll be all the more obvious if you’ve left someone out. Remember to check with the bride or groom whether it’s appropriate to invite any of their family, or if there’s someone they definitely don’t want invited.

3. Be firm

By all means seek feedback from the guests before making a final plan, but you are unlikely to be able to please everyone in every way, so be prepared to make a decision as quickly as possible and don’t feel offended if a minority don’t agree. As regards anyone who can’t make the proposed date, it’s up to the bride or groom to decide whether that particular guest is worth changing the date for.

Another area in which you need to be firm is finances. Make sure you collect payments from the other hens or stags at least a few days before you need to pay any third parties such as the limo-hire company or hotel. That way the cheques will have had time to clear and you won’t be out of pocket.

4. Book early

Meticulous organisation and persistence are the keys to avoiding disappointment and getting the best value for every aspect of the event you’re planning. For example, if you’re travelling to another city for a weekend, you’ll get significantly better deals on train fares by booking early and travelling at an off-peak time. Or you could consider hiring a van to transport everyone to the destination.

Booking your accommodation early is also likely to pay dividends. If you’re hoping to keep things as cheap as possible, consider hotel chains such as Travelodge, where you pay per room rather than per person, with each room accommodating 3-4 people.

5. Stay contactable

You should, of course, get contact details for all members of your party and, just as importantly, make sure they have your details. Ask them to put your number on their mobile so they can contact you on the day itself if they get lost or need clarification on anything.

Email is the stag or hen organiser’s best friend, so use it to the full. It’s worth considering setting up 2 email groups – one that includes the bride/groom, and one that does not. The first list can be used to relay practical details or anything else you’re happy to let the main man or woman in on. The second is, of course, for any little surprises you might be planning.

6. Check terms and conditions

Make sure you are totally clear on the conditions laid down by any service providers you intend to book with. Will you lose your deposit if one or more of your party has to cancel at the last minute? And will there be some kind of compensation if a company lets you down on the day?

7. Keep smiling

The best gift you can give a bride or groom at their hen or stag party is the right attitude. If you and the other guests are in the mood to have fun, it’ll rub off and there’s a much better chance of a good time being had by all!