FOR THE ORGANISERS

When to have it?

If there is a set activity you have in mind whose date is already set in stone (a trip to the Grand National for example) then obviously people will either be able to make it or they won’t. As long as you inform everyone far enough in advance and assuming they have not already booked a holiday or have other plans then you should find that most people can shuffle things round in their diary to accommodate.

If the activity has a number of alternative dates, try to find out which one most people can make and using the prioritised list of attendees, determine the most suitable one. The one thing you need to ensure above all else is that the Bride or Groom-to-be is free to attend. If it is a surprise, make sure that you either arrange holiday with their bosses, or sort out alternative arrangements for any task they are due to be performing.

What individual touches can be made? 

Having decided upon location, date and activity, and informed everyone who’s going of what it’s going to cost, you now have the opportunity to add a bit of flair to the occasion. Be it fancy dress, special printed t-shirts, party games or competitions, your options are open. The Making it Personal article is crammed full of useful and inventive ideas to add that special personal touch, so have a read and spark your imagination into life.

Organising a Stag or Hen celebration is just like a mini-project and if you have never done any form of project planning before it may all seem a little daunting at this stage – but don’t panic. The other articles within this section are full of useful ideas and suggestions and I’m sure that other friends of the Bride or Groom-to-be will be more than willing to help. If after this you are still worried, why not enrol the help of a Stag & Hen Party Planner – there are a number of companies who offer such a service and can take away any stress you may have and they cost less than you think.

Last of all, good luck, and enjoy it – just remember, it’s not every day your best friend gets married!