Hints and Tips by Pampered Hens

The Alternative Hen Party

Traditionally it is the role of the chief bridesmaid to organise the brides' hen party but where do you start, what do you organise? It's an event for the bride so some consultation with her may be necessary; you don't want to arrange something she won't enjoy. However, many brides today are fed up with the usual drunken wild nights out and are opting for a more civilised way to celebrate and are choosing a Bridal Shower.

A Bridal Shower is a more intimate get together with a number of possible themes such as a garden tea, a kitchenware or lingerie party but one option proving rather popular is a Pamper Party. After all, this is the time when the bride has so much to sort out and is probably feeling a little stressed, and the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate before the big day will be a welcomed relief. It is said the origins of the Bridal Shower are to strengthen the ties between the bride and her friends, provide her with moral support, and help her prepare for her marriage - so what better way to achieve this by organising a relaxation day for her - an intimate day she can share quality time with her favourite girlfriends, and don't we all enjoy a bit of indulgence?

So what does a pamper day involve? Going to a spa may be one option, however, this can be costly. Another alternative is to organise some therapists to come to your home to pamper everyone with facials, massages and scented footbaths. You can create a relaxing atmosphere with candles, aromatic essential oils and ambient music and enjoy a wonderfully bonding session gossiping with all the girls. Ask all the guests to bring a plate of finger food to share and any other pamper items they might like to bring along and of course don't forget the bubbly to toast the bride in her forthcoming marriage.

And who pays for the hen party? The chief bridesmaid is not obliged to pay for everyone so if each guest is happy to attend, don't feel embarrassed to ask the guests to pay their share. However, as a special treat for the bride you could surprise her with an extra pampering treatment so she feels really spoilt, nurtured and leaves looking vibrant and ready for her big day.

Written by Amanda Egan, Pampered Hens