Bachelorette parties are a traditional way to celebrate the end of a bride’s single life. While many bachelor and bachelorette parties are designed to be wild affairs, there are plenty of options for both outgoing and timid brides to celebrate. 

Brides and grooms planning on having bachelor and bachelorette parties should discuss their plans before the event. Setting some basic ground rules can keep the happy couple from getting upset with each other after finding out about the night’s events. 

Talking about ideas for the bachelor and bachelorette parties can also give the couple time to think about having a party together. Although it may be untraditional, many couples opt to share the time together and have co-ed parties or go off on their own and meet up at the end of the night at a favorite spot. However, most brides to-be and their best girlfriends prefer to hit the town on their town. 

Planning a bachelorette party and need ideas? Use these suggestions to plan the perfect bash. 

Girls’ Weekend 
Want bonding time? Plan a girls’ weekend away from the stress of wedding planning. A seaside destination is perfect for beach bums. Spend daytime shopping and sunbathing and nighttime going to swanky bars and checking out local entertainment. 

For groups looking for a destination with a range of activities, visiting a major city could be fun. Boston, Philadelphia, New York City, Los Angeles and San Diego, offer groups a variety of activities to suit anyone’s interests. Cities have many restaurants, entertainment options and a local flavor worth investigating. Plan to spend the weekend exploring! 

Throw the dice 
Casinos are also a popular locale for bachelorette parties. Casinos are now much than just a place to gamble. They boast multiple casinos, lavish hotel rooms, spas, clubs, restaurants, bars and plenty of entertainment. Also, there’s no need to worry about who will drive to each spot as all of the fun is in one place. 

Unwind a little… 
A relaxing day at the spa might be just the kind of party an overly stressed bride needs. Start with an elegant brunch and then splurge on mani/pedis, facials and massages for the whole crew. Planning ahead will allow you time to find a great spa with services for a good price. Some spas offer group rates or bridal specials, so be sure to ask ahead of time. 

Destination Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties 
Some brides and grooms having destination weddings opt to have their bachelor and bachelorette parties at their destinations. First, couples should make sure there is enough time to have the party. Wedding ceremonies are often held soon after the couple arrives. Those interested in hosting bachelor/bachelorette parties should add a day or two on the itinerary so they will be able to enjoy the festivities before they need to do any walk-throughs or take care of last minute wedding details. 

There are a number of excursions and activities the bride and groom and their friends can get involved it at their destination. Opt to go sailing, get spa treatments or take a tour of the island. Contact the resort in advance to make sure you’re able to make reservations. 

Wine tasting 
For brides and their friends a short drive from wine country, a wine tasting is a great way to bond with the girls. Select a designated driver or hire a limo or town car service to take you to a few locations. Don’t live close to wine country? Do some research on farmers’ markets and local wineries. Many farmers’ markets feature vendors who make their own wine at small vineyards and offer tastings for reasonable prices. 

Take a class 
For adventurous and outgoing brides looking for a unique party idea, a dance class is the perfect choice. Take a pole dancing or belly dancing class. Even if dancing isn’t your forte, classes always end up being fun for the entire group. 

Most studios allow groups to rent out the space for private parties and many provide costumes or special benefits for the bride-to-be and her group, so make sure to note that the class is for a bachelorette party. 

Traditional bachelorette fun 
Whether you’re planning a night at the club or a weekend away, some bachelorette party items and traditions are essential. 

Every bachelorette needs a sash, veil and/or tiara to make sure everyone knows she’s the bride-to-be. Visit a local party store or search the web to find a variety of accessories in nearly every color. Make sure the rest of the group dresses up, too. Feather boas, beaded necklaces or cute T-shirts are popular choices. 

Having a party at home? Buy fun drink glasses form a party or discount store to make your own concoctions. 

Keep in mind 
The party is for the bride. While the party should be fun for everyone involved, it is about what the bride wants, so get her input before making reservations. If she’d prefer a low-key night out or a relaxing weekend with girlfriends over a traditional bar crawl, honor her wishes. 

By: Lauren Finnegan