Ask the Bride/Bridegroom
While you may be tempted to surprise the bride or bridegroom with a party you run the risk of making a critical error. Remember that for most brides and grooms this is an once-in-a-lifetime experience and naturally they would like it to be memorable – in a good way. It is typically the maid or matron of honor’s and best man’s responsibility to arrange these parties because they are expected to know the bride and groom the best, but it is not always the case. You may think you know what would appeal to them but you may be surprised by what they consider the most enjoyable way to celebrate their last night as a single person. Take the time to find out what they prefer and plan a party that meets their expectations. This doesn’t mean that you can’t add in a surprise element or two but make sure that they are not something they would be disappointed in.
Find the Right Venue
As bachelor and bachelorette parties often getting wilder as the night progresses the right venue can make or break a party. Be sure that the venue you choose provides food as well as drinks if alcohol consumption is likely to be high. Ensuring guests have plenty to eat will help reduce the effects of too much alcohol. If hosting the party at a public venue such as a bar or nightclub try to arrange a private room. If hiring a venue make sure that cleanup is included in the cost so that you don’t have to deal with it the next day.
Consider a Theme Party
If the bride or groom has a particular interest a theme party will add a level of fun to the celebration. Take into consideration any sports, pastimes, and interests they may have. You can consider decorating the venue in a relevant theme and have the guests dress up appropriately. Sport-themed parties are one of the easiest to arrange.
Make a Checklist
Even the best of event organizers use a checklist and it is the easiest way to ensure that you get everything done. Start with a rough draft of what you want to accomplish and leave room on the page to put notes, phone numbers and a check mark for when a task is completed. If working on the planning with others consider using an online program that you can all access and update to keep track of how the planning is progressing and where things have been neglected.
Send Invitations
If the party is limited to just a select few (6 or less) consider sending out invitations and follow up to ensure that invited guests have received theirs and are going to be able to join in the celebration. Send invitations out at least two weeks ahead of the date so that guests have time to make arrangements to attend. Short notice events often run the risk of having very few people attend.
Share the Cost
When first discussing the planned party work out a budget and ask everyone (except the bride) to contribute. The entire event does not have to be an expensive affair but some expenses are unavoidable. If costs are an issue you can hold the event at a bar or nightclub or restaurant and ask the venue management to arrange to set up tables in one section just for your party. Make sure that everyone attending knows that they are expected to pay for their own drinks (except the bride). If there is enough money available you could provide snack-type foods at the organizers cost.
Transportation
Be responsible and make sure that everyone who will be drinking will be returned home safely. If money allows a stretch limousine or limousine bus should be provided. You can even hire the limousine bus to host the entire party, which will provide a private venue for your party. Check with local limousine services about costs and their rules for hiring i.e. no smoking. You can arrange a meal to start the festivities off which will serve two purposes – ensuring those drinking alcohol have food on their stomach before drinking heavily, and to allow stragglers to catch up with the rest of the party.
