The Complete Hen Party Guide: From Planning to Partying

Planning a hen party should, in theory, feel fabulously celebratory. But let’s be real: co-ordinating an epic event while keeping everyone happy and staying on budget can begin to feel more like a chore than a labour of love. If you’re the HBIC (Head Babe in Charge), you’re basically wearing every hat—event planner, chief financial officer, cruise director, hype squad and, at times, group therapist—all while making sure the bride has the time of her life. No pressure, right?

Don’t stress … we’re here to help. This hen party planning guide has everything you need to plan a hen do that’s as stress-free as it is unforgettable. From budget-friendly local parties to dreamy destination trips, along with itinerary hacks and group coordination tips, we’ve got you covered.

So, grab your notebook (and maybe a mimosa), and let’s plan a hen party to remember!

Table of Contents:

• Hen Party Planning Essentials
• Creating the Perfect Hen Do Foundation
• A Deep Dive Into the Planning Details
  • Budget Mastery
  • Hen Do Location
  • Guest List
  • Event Agenda
  • Theme and Atmosphere
  • Activities
  • Problem-Solving Guide
• Hen Party Planning Timeline
  • Six to Eight Months Out
  • Four to Six Months Out
  • Three Months Out
  • Two Months Out
  • One Month Out
  • One Week Out
  • Day-of Guide

Quick Start Guide: Hen Party Essentials

Before diving into the details, there are key decisions to make with the bride. These choices shape the entire experience for both the guest of honour and her hen party crew.

1. Vision and Vibe: What does the bride want?

Some brides want a non-stop London city centre blowout with 30 of her closest friends, while others prefer a weekend with their inner circle at a cosy cabin. The first step to hen party success is understanding what type of party suits her style.

2. Budget: Go big or stay home? 

Money conversations can be awkward. And they are essential when planning an event with multiple budgets to consider. Everyone needs to know upfront what they’re expected to chip in. According to Plan the Hen, a hen do weekend can cost up to £400 on average though can range widely, based on length, location and other factors. Setting a per-person budget upfront can help avoid stress later. It will also help dictate whether the party stays local or heads out of town. 

3. Location: GNO or girls’ trip?

A destination hen party offers holiday vibes and adventure, providing a more immersive experience for the bride and her crew. But it will require more planning and a bigger financial–and time–commitment. If that’s not in the (monetary) cards, a local event can be just as much fun for a fraction of the cost. Not to mention, local events can be easier to organise around busy schedules.

4. Guest List: Who’s in and who’s out?

Much like the location, the hen party guest list plays a big part in the overall party budget. It also informs the space, itinerary and—perhaps most importantly—the group vibe. This is a scenario where one bad apple can definitely spoil the bunch. The final call, though, comes down to the bride.

5. Party Planner: What’s your time commitment? 

By now we know that budgets and schedules pretty much dictate what kind of hen party is in the cards. Another (big) consideration is how much time and energy you have to plan. Hen parties started as a one-day affair—dinner followed by a night out. Many still are, according to The Urban Wedding Company, but a number stretch out over two or even three days. Regardless of what’s decided, it will require a lot of your time. Be honest about how much energy you can dedicate to planning. You don’t want to burn out before the event even begins.

Setting Up for Success: Build the Best Hen Do Foundation

A hen party isn’t just about making an itinerary—it’s about creating a special weekend for the bride and a fun experience for everyone else. Nail the details early, communicate clearly, and get ready for an unforgettable celebration!

Bride’s Party Preferences

Before you book that VIP bottle service or hire out an entire spa, you need to know exactly what the bride wants—and what she absolutely does not want.

Some key questions to ask:

What’s your perfect party scenario? City club scene, country spa weekend, themed yacht party, adventure retreat, or something else entirely? Make sure the celebration aligns with what the guest of honour actually wants. 

Would you prefer a jam-packed weekend or low-key afternoon? Define her ideal activity level. 

Do you like surprises or would you rather be in the know? Some brides want to be hands-off, while others love being involved.

Any no-gos? Some people hate clubbing. Others despise matching outfits. Know her limits.

What’s your ideal destination? If she’s dreaming of a low-key seaside getaway, don’t surprise her with a ski trip.

Example: If the bride is obsessed with Renaissance-style glam, a night sipping cocktails at a rooftop lounge might beat a pub crawl. If she’s a hiking with tea and biscuits kind of girl, a cosy cabin weekend with matching flannels might be the way to go.

Must-have Elements

Whether it’s a four-person paella party at home or a group trip to Ibiza, there are a few things every great hen party needs to ensure the vision of the bride and the success of the event. Without them, you’re just hanging out with your friends in matching T-shirts. 

A clear budget: Mastering the budget is one of the keys to keeping drama at bay. 

An itinerary (but not a rigid one): The best bashes have structure, but also room for spontaneous moments—because sometimes the best nights start with, “Who wants a shot?” 

A solid guest list: Who’s on the A-list, B-list, and the absolutely-not list? A well-balanced group ensures no drama (hopefully!) and plenty of fun.

Logistics that make sense: No one wants to be stuck waiting 45 minutes for an Uber or crashing on an air mattress in accommodation that’s too small. Think ahead.

Group Coordination: Keep It Easy and Fun

With multiple people, preferences, and schedules, clear communication is everything. 

Keep open communication: Start a group chat on WhatsApp, Slack, or even a private Instagram page to help share plans, take polls, and send payment reminders. 

Track expenses: Create a shared Google Doc or Monzo account to keep costs transparent.

Delegate: Assign party goers small roles (like “transportation guru” or “dinner reservations queen”) to help lighten the planning load.

Not everyone will be on the same party page—some will want late-night dancing, while others prefer lounging by the pool. So, leave flex time in the itinerary for guests to do their own thing when needed.

Guest List Dynamics 

Ah, the guest list—where things can get messy if you’re not careful. You’ve got the bridal party, the bride’s childhood crew, university flatmates, work colleagues, family, and others to consider. How do you make sure everyone gets along? First, ask the bride for input. If there’s beef between anyone, heed her warnings and plan accordingly.

Some suggestions:  

If it’s a local, one-day event, plan activities throughout to keep any sparring party goers occupied.

If it’s a multi-day and/or a destination event, consider strained relationships when making plans and booking accommodations. Mix up the itinerary so everyone has something they enjoy doing, and so there are options for guests to avoid each other if need be. 

If half the group loves loud pubs and late nights, but the other half prefers early evenings and slow mornings, plan for both scenarios.

Avoid old drama. If two people on the guest list have history, make sure it won’t ruin the vibe, or detract from the bride in any way.

Regardless of where you go or what you do, introduce party guests before the event. Either kick up a group chat, plan a pre-party Zoom or gather for a low-key meet-and-greet. A fun icebreaker on night one of a multi-day event can also help guests connect.

Example: If the bride has a mix of her party-loving university friends and more reserved work colleagues, you might plan a boozy brunch followed by a spa day, so everyone enjoys the day.

Common Hen Party Planning Pitfalls

Even the best-laid hen do plans can go sideways. Here’s how to avoid classic mistakes:

Overstuffing the itinerary: A jam-packed schedule might sound fun, but by day two, you’ll have a group of tired, cranky friends who just want to nap.

Ignoring the budget realities: Not everyone can drop £1,000 on a luxury weekend. Be realistic and make sure the plan is doable for all guests.

Last-minute booking disasters: That dreamy holiday hire? The popular boat cruise? They book up fast, so secure the important reservations months in advance.

Not thinking about logistics: If everything on your itinerary is 30 minutes apart, you’re setting yourself up for chaos.

Example: A hen do abroad in Paris sounds amazing … until you realise you booked a hotel in Saint-Denis, a dinner in La Marais, and wine tasting in the 15th arrondissement. Translation? You’ll spend half your weekend stuck in Ubers. Keep everything close together.

Deep Dive: The Diva Is in the Details

You’ve figured out the bride’s vibe and laid the foundation. Now it’s time to get into the details that make or break a hen party. Budgets, guest lists, itineraries—it all comes together here. With a little prep and the right mindset, you’ll pull off an event that’s seamless, fun, and (most importantly) unforgettable.

Hen Party Budget Mastery

Setting a per-person budget straight out of the gate is the best way to avoid stress later. It can also help dictate party plans. Here’s how to keep things fair, transparent, and affordable for everyone.

Estimate per-person costs

According to Plan the Hen, the average cost for a UK-based hen weekend celebration is £200 – £400. A long-haul extravaganza abroad will average £600 – £1000. And those numbers can be even higher depending on your specific location and activities. Local parties will likely cost less. No matter what you decide, get an idea of what guests can afford and set expectations early to help everyone plan accordingly.

Be straight with expectations

Once there’s consensus on a plan, break down expenses (accommodations and/or space hire, food, activities, decor, etc.) for guests.

Consider the bride’s expenses

Find out who’s willing to contribute, or if she plans to pay her own way.

Use payment organisation tools

Instead of fronting costs yourself (which can get messy), leverage apps and tools like Splitwise, Monzo, PayPal and Google Sheets to track shared expenses and collect payments. For larger purchases like lodging, consider using one person’s credit card and dividing payments immediately.

Be aware of hidden costs

It’s not just flights and accommodation—think through taxis, tips, stocking rooms with food and booze, and last-minute, themed-outfit shopping. Leave room in the budget for unexpected expenses.

Explore budget-friendly alternatives

Want to cut costs without sacrificing fun? Swap bottle service for a cocktail-making class, or host a DIY spa night instead of a luxury retreat. Sometimes, the smallest moments make the best memories.

Dry hen dos

Just because there’s no booze doesn’t mean there’s no budget—focus on experience-based activities, spa days, and creative outings that make for a memorable celebration minus the bar tab.

---

Pro Tip: If budgets are tight, consider a one-night venue and host a themed dinner party or a karaoke night instead of a full weekend trip.

---

Location, Location, Location

Whether in or out of town, the right location sets the tone for the entire hen party. Here’s how to pick a place that fits the vibe, budget, and logistics for all involved.

The weekend (or longer!) getaway offers more time for the bridal party and friend group to bond but will definitely come with a higher price tag than staying local. 

Key factors to consider for a destination event:

Location

Consider travel time and accessibility. If flights are involved, make sure the destination is easily accessible for most guests via their local airports. Also consider proximity of the hotel or accommodation from the airport.

Accommodation options

Hotels offer convenience, room service, and (usually) transportation options, while holiday hires can have more space, privacy, and the option for personalised experiences (like hiring a private chef for dinner or decking the place out in themed decor). Either way, make sure there is room for everyone, or a mix of budget-friendly and high-end choices for guests to choose from. Nobody likes to pay a heap of money to sleep on the floor.

Things to do

Choose a location that offers a variety of activities to keep things exciting.

Season and weather

GoHen notes that hen parties are most common in spring and summer. No matter when you go, research the weather in the area, beyond just temperature. A beach trip during April showers season or a ski trip with no snow is a recipe for a bummed-out bride.

Vibe match

A bride who loves nonstop nightlife might thrive in Manchester, while a nature-loving bride might prefer the mountains of Snowdon. Choose a location that matches the bride’s energy.

Example: London is perfect for a mini dress-wearing bride who loves live music, bars, and nightlife. Tulum, Mexico is great for a boho-chic beach vibe with yoga and cocktails by the ocean. Bristol? An amazing mix of history, nightlife, and incredible food.

The single-day hen do is a great choice for low-maintenance brides or groups with limited time and/or budget. Staying close to home likely means lower costs, easier scheduling and can be appealing to more guests. Money goes a lot further, providing the bride with an experience as memorable as a weekend away. And if the bride is already travelling for the wedding, a local celebration might make more sense.

Key factors to consider for a local event:

Location

Local doesn’t mean boring. Think beyond restaurants and bars. Consider unique and off-the-beaten-track spots that are hirable by the day, or even a few hours. Host a glam dinner party at a city centre apartment, or a pool day at a local residence with massage therapists and manicurists on hand.

Accessibility

Even though it’s local, keep guests’ schedules in mind. If a Friday soiree works best for most, consider a later start to accommodate work obligations and commutes. 

Things to do

Fill the time with fun activities and games, if the bride approves. 

Season and weather

Take time of year into account when planning a local event. Snow, rain and excessive heat should play into your plans. 

Vibe match

Same rules apply to local events as they do to destination getaways. Make sure the energy of the hen party matches the energy of the bride. Options include hosting a boozy brunch, taking a local wine tour, relaxing at a spa, or having a private dinner party at the bride’s favourite restaurant.

Example: A local Peerspace apartment can be transformed into a mini getaway with the right decor and activities, while a weekend in Brighton or Benidorm provides a multi-day bonding experience for the bride and her guests. Browse unique hen party spaces to help with your search for the perfect spot.

Whether staying local or taking off, a few additional tips:

Party venues

Hiring a space for a private dinner, cocktail-making class, or pregame party can make the experience feel extra special—and give you total control over the ambiance.

Logistics

Whether you’re pub hopping, participating in multiple excursions, or planning a variety of activities throughout the day, make sure everything is within walking distance or only a short Uber ride away. No one wants to spend half the night or weekend in traffic, or in pain from hoofing it in too-high heels.

Transportation

Party buses, Ubers, and group car hires all have pros and cons. For larger groups, hiring a driver for nights out can save time, prevent confusion, and keep everyone safe.

---

Pro Tip: Your venue sets the entire party’s tone. Let us help you. Check out these unique bride-approved hen party locations. And always check in with guests before booking big-ticket experiences to ensure everyone’s ability to participate.

---

The I Do Crew: Guest List and Group Dynamics

A well thought out guest list can help make sure everyone gets along, the bride is happy, and no one feels out of place. Here’s how to create the perfect mix of people for a stress-free weekend.

Size matters

The longer the list, the bigger the budget. But more people can also mean bigger (hopefully positive) energy. A group of 6-10 guests is ideal—big enough to be a party, small enough for easy co-ordination. More than 12? Expect longer waits for reservations and extra logistics.

Must-invites

Make sure the bride’s inner circle can attend before locking in dates. Traditionally the A-list includes bridesmaids, close friends and siblings. There are also considerations for cousins and, in some cases, the bride’s mum. But remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to the guest list. It’s the bride’s call who gets an invite.

Mixing friend groups and personalities

Dynamics are key to successful hen party planning. Many blend childhood besties, university buds, work mates, and siblings—many of whom might not know each other. For one-night events, consider an icebreaker at the start to smooth unfamiliar connections. For multi-day events, a welcome dinner or group activity can go a long way in forging new friendships.

RSVP tracking systems

Digital invites via Paperless Post, Evite, or even a private Instagram page help track responses and keep guests informed of deadlines and any changes to the event.

Plus-one policies

Should guests bring their partners? Usually, hen parties are a “no plus-one” zone unless the bride specifically wants them there. Be clear about the expectations upfront.

Friend group blending tips 

If some guests don’t know each other, assign flat mates for shared rooms or mix up seating arrangements at dinners to encourage conversation. But know there may be resistance to this from guests who want to stay or sit with familiar faces.

Example: If the bride has a mix of party-loving university friends and more reserved work friends, consider a brunch followed by a spa day. That way, there’s a little something for everyone. And there’s no rule saying everyone has to participate in every event.

---

Pro Tip: The goal is to create an inclusive, drama-free celebration that brings the bride’s closest people together without causing stress or financial strain.

---

The Event Agenda

A good itinerary balances structure and spontaneity. Here’s how to keep the weekend fun without it feeling like a military operation.

Pacing: Plan high-energy events like club hopping for the first night when everyone’s fresh. Leave low-key activities like brunch or a spa day for recovery mode.

Activities: The best hen dos include a little bit of everything—daytime adventure, good meals, fun nights out, and relaxed bonding time. Just don’t overcommit.

Downtime: No one wants to be go-go-going for 48 hours straight. Build in free time for naps, pool hangs, or casual shopping.

Group size: Big groups mean longer wait times and more planning. Make reservations whenever possible and consider splitting into smaller groups for ease.

Flexibility: If plans change at the last minute (they will), have backup options ready to go—an alternate restaurant, a selection of bars to check out, or a low-key game night.

Make It a Vibe: Theme and Atmosphere

A well-planned theme elevates the experience and makes for great photos. Things to consider:

Theme selection: A great theme ties into the bride’s personality—think “Final Fiesta” (for the tequila lover) or “Disco Cowgirl” (for the country music fan).

Decor: Whether it’s balloon arches, neon signs, or a “Bride’s Last Ride” banner, decorations set the mood and bring the theme to life.

Swag: Matching sunnies, T-shirts, or party bags make great souvenirs—and help the group stick together when out.

Photo opps: Hire a photo booth, set up a Polaroid station, or hire a photographer for a pro-level touch.

Space transformation: If you’re hiring a private venue, go all in with themed lighting, flowers, table decor, even a special throne for the bride.

Keep Things Moving: Activities to Maximise the Fun

The best hen parties have a mix of planned fun, room for spontaneity and back-up plans, just in case.

Organise both day and night activities: Keep daytime plans chill (think brunch, a boat day, or yoga) and nighttime events high-energy (think VIP tables, karaoke, or themed pub crawls).

Include group-friendly options: Wine tastings, private dinners, spa days, and boat hires work well for a mixture of personalities.

Plan backup activities: If, for example, bad weather ruins a beach day, have an indoor option like a DIY wine and paint night, or a cooking class.

Incorporate local experiences: Integrate something unique to the location—like Nonesuch dancing in Sussex, a burlesque show in London, or a surf lesson in Brighton.

Create a special moment: Plan a sentimental toast, a surprise gift for the bride, or a fun game where each guest shares her favourite memory of the bride.

If Things Go Sideways: Problem-solving Guide

Even the best-planned trips hit a few bumps. Here’s how to handle hiccups like a pro.

Budget management: If costs start spiralling, adjust plans—swap a five-star dinner with an upscale picnic.

Drama prevention: A good mix of planned and relaxed activities keeps the mood light. If drama bubbles up, keep the focus on celebrating the bride, not personal conflicts. Separate sparring hens if need be.

Location challenges: If a venue cancels last-minute, use Peerspace to find a backup that’s better than the original. 

Weather contingencies: Always have an indoor alternative in case of bad weather.

Communicate changes: If running late, or plans shift in any way, communicate early so everyone stays in the loop and can plan accordingly.

Energy maintenance: Hydration, sleep, and snack breaks save weekend hen warriors from burnout.

The Complete Timeline: Hen Party Planning Guide

Planning a hen party is a logistical puzzle, a creative challenge, and a memory-making opportunity all in one. Here’s your guide:

Six to Eight Months Out: Build a Bomb Hen Do

The groundwork starts here. This is when you set expectations, lock in key details, and start rallying the bridal crew.

Budget planning: Decide on a per-person cost that works for everyone. Costs can soar quickly. Let individual budgets educate plans. Be upfront about what’s covered in group costs (accommodation, activities) vs. what guests pay for individually (flights, shopping, pub tabs).

Date selection: The best time for a hen party is two to three months before the wedding. Avoid major holidays and peak travel weekends to keep prices reasonable and attendance high.

Initial guest outreach: Create a group chat or email chain to gauge availability. If the bride wants a tight-knit group, keep the invite list small; if she prefers all-inclusive vibes, make sure plus-ones are approved in advance.

Destination research: If travelling, compare flight costs, private accommodation vs. hotel pricing, and peak vs. off-season dates. Popular spots like London, Manchester, and Ibiza book up quickly, so start scouting now.

Local venue exploration: If staying local, research private venues, dining rooms, and event spaces that fit the vibe. Consider options like rooftop lounges, luxury hotels, or private boat hires.

Four to Six Months Out: Lock in Key Decisions

Now that the basics are set, it’s time to lock in the biggest pieces of the puzzle.

Locations and venues: Whether it’s a castle in Edinburgh, a penthouse studio in London, or a cabin in the Peak District, finalise the where and make the deposit before prices go up or your dates are snagged by another party.

Themes: Themed hen parties make for better photos, easier planning, and more fun outfits. Some trending themes: “Final Rodeo” (cowgirl chic), “Tropic Like It’s Hot” (beach party), or “Glitz & Glam” (old Hollywood vibes).

Activities: Plan a mix of group experiences. Think spa days, yacht parties, drag brunches, mixology classes, or pole dancing workshops. Balance high-energy activities with downtime so the group doesn’t burn out.

Travel: If flying, compare flight options for price and convenience. For road trips, arrange car sharing or consider a party bus for the full experience.

Accommodations: Look for private accommodations or hotels that have enough space for everyone to get ready together. Confirm if the bride wants shared rooms or separate spaces—because some people love bunk beds, and others… really don’t.

Three Months Out: Details, Details

Now the fun part kicks in—this is where the itinerary gets finalised, payments start rolling in, and the group starts getting hyped.

Formal invitations/info packets: Send a digital itinerary with hotel details, packing lists, and an overview of the weekend. Add notes like “Bring one all-white outfit” or “Swimsuits required for Day 2” to help guests prepare.

Detailed budget breakdown: If guests haven’t paid yet, remind them of final costs. Use Monzo, Splitwise, or PayPal to keep things transparent and avoid last-minute money stress.

Itinerary development: Build a timeline that includes meals, downtime, and backup plans. Pro tip: Leave at least one “free choice” time block for spontaneous fun.

Activity booking: Secure any reservations for restaurants, club tables, excursions, or spa days. Many popular spots require deposits for large groups, so confirm details now.

Group transportation: Decide if you need Uber reservations, car hires, or a limo for nights out. In cities like London, pre-booking a party bus can be a fun and practical option.

Two Months Out: Confirm All the Things

By now, everything should be booked—this is the time to tie up loose ends.

RSVP management: Get final confirmations. If someone drops out, adjust bookings accordingly to avoid extra costs.

Payment collection: If certain activities or shared expenses haven’t been paid for, send a friendly but firm reminder so no one is scrambling later.

Decoration/swag ordering: Order matching outfits, party favours, and themed decorations now so you’re not paying rush fees later.

Playlist creation: Create a custom Spotify playlist of the bride’s favourite songs and party anthems.

Vendor confirmation: Call or email restaurants, pubs, and vendors to reconfirm headcounts and deposits.

One Month Out: Finalise Logistics

The countdown is on! Now’s the time to finalise logistics and make sure everyone is prepped.

Confirm final headcount: Finalise the total number of attendees and update all reservations accordingly.

Distribute detailed itinerary: Send a final, polished version of the weekend schedule in the group chat.

Provide packing lists (bride & guests): Share a destination-specific list (bathing suits for Cabo, hiking boots for the Pennines, all-black outfits for NYC).

Devise a backup plan: If any outdoor activities are on the itinerary, have a contingency plan for bad weather.

Co-ordinate a special surprise: Plan a heartfelt moment for the bride—a video montage from family, a scrapbook of memories, or a surprise toast.

One Week Out: Get Set

Now’s the time to wrap up details and prepare for the weekend ahead.

Monitor the weather: Check the forecast for packing adjustments and communicate any changes to the group.

Confirm reservations: Call or email all restaurants, clubs, and vendors for final confirmation.

Create an emergency contact list: Assign a “point person” in case of lost phones, medical issues, or Uber mishaps.

Check (and recheck) final itinerary: Confirm all transportation, meal times, and activity start times.

Set up group communication: If you haven’t already, create a WhatsApp or iMessage group for easy updates.

Day-of Guide: Hosting Success

The day has arrived! Now it’s time to focus on execution—and making sure the party flows smoothly.

Hour-by-hour timeline: Stick to the planned schedule while keeping things relaxed and flexible.

Group co-ordination: Assign a co-host to help keep things moving (and make sure no one gets left behind at brunch).

Photography planning: Capture candid and posed shots—but don’t let the night turn into a photo shoot.

Energy management: Encourage hydration, snack breaks, and enough sleep to survive a multi-day party.

Problem-solving: Have a plan for unexpected hiccoughs—a lost phone, a missing reservation, or a guest who partied too hard.

With the right planning, communication, and flexibility, your hen party will be a stress-free, unforgettable experience for the bride and every guest.

Need the perfect venue? Browse Peerspace’s hen party spaces for unique locations to match any vibe.

The Perfect Hen Party Is Within Reach: Final Tips and Takeaways

You’ve got the dream crew, the game plan, and the excitement—now it’s time to make it all happen! Whether it’s a full-on weekend adventure or a one-night blowout, the best hen parties are all about good vibes, great memories, and zero stress.

Here’s a quick recap checklist:

• Start early: Secure the budget, guest list, and venue at least six months out. 
• Balance the fun: Mix high-energy moments with time to unwind.
• Stay organised: Google Docs, Monzo, and Peerspace are your new besties.
• Roll with it: Even the best plans need a little flexibility.

Now all that’s left is locking in the perfect party spot—and Peerspace has your back with tons of stylish, one-of-a-kind venues to set the scene for an unforgettable party.