Fun Ideas for a Bachelorette Party

For many years, bridal showers were the female counterpart to the bachelor party. But, how wicked can the bridal party become while discussing kitchen appliances, especially in the presence of female relatives? That's why in recent years the tradition of bachelorette parties has been gaining steam. Friends and members of the bridal party treat the bride to a girls' night of fun, independent of housewares! If there are presents, they are usually slightly naughty, gag gifts. Sometimes these parties attempt to copy male bashes by taking the bride to Chippendales-type strip clubs, or hiring private male strippers for the party. But many bachelorette parties are just fun outings for the bride, her bridal party and her closest girlfriends. Here are several possibilities to consider.

• Plan a day at a local day spa, or even better, at one that requires a weekend roadtrip. Massages, facials, mud baths, seaweed wraps, manicures, pedicures - any of these permit plenty of time for the girls to share thoughts and laughs together.
• Take the gang out to an evening of dinner theater.
• Let them eat cake, and dinner, and appetizers. Make reservations at the bride's favorite restaurant or choose a tea house for a Victorian charming event.
• Go out dancing. Whether it's country western or disco fever, this will be sure to keep the party lively all night long.
• Head off to an amusement or water park. Who said you had to act like grownups just because someone was getting married?
• Be active. If the gals in your group are athletic, you've got many fun choices. A round of golf, a long bike ride, or a yoga class are all possibilities. Follow these with replenishing food and beverages when they're over.
• Take the bride for a picnic at her favorite spot. Is she a beach bum? A mountain girl? A city park jogger? Take her there for a comfortable place to hang out.

  Final Thoughts

  If the party isn't going to be a surprise, consult with the bride when you assemble the guest list.

  Plan this event while taking into consideration the budget of all those who will be paying for it.

  Try to determine whether the bride will be offended by a stripper before you hire one for the party.

  Make arrangements for a paid driver if this party will involved drinking. Alternatively, rent hotel rooms for the group to crash in when the evening is over.