Your Must-Have Hen Party Checklist & Planning Timeline

4 months ago 198

Claire McGowran

We've given you lots of tips for planning a dynamite hen party; we've shared ideas for what to do, who to invite, where to stay and how to deal with any drama that might arise in the process (and a whole lot besides!). So we figured we should probably compile it all in one handy hen party checklist for planning and while we're at it, include a timeline of what to do when.

Follow these simple steps, and not only will your hen 'do go off without a hitch, but you'll get to give your bride-to-be the epic send-off from single life she deserves!

Of course it goes without saying, not all of the items on the hen party checklist will apply to you or the hen party you're planning - we've got in to lots of detail, so simply take what's relevant and skip the rest!

Oh and if it's your first time planning a hen, you might want to read our hen party crash course for bridesmaids first!

4-6 Months Out

Chat to your bride about what kind of hen she wants (Don't make her do all the hard work, get a gauge for her preferences, eg abroad vs at home, one night or a whole weekend etc.)
Work out a date or selection of dates that suits the bride and key hen party guest (Doodle is very handy!)
Make a list of who the bride would like to invite (double check on mums!)
Start doing some research into locations and activities
Make a general decision on where you're going and what you'll be doing
If the hen is abroad, it's a good idea to let guests know as soon as possible and start booking flights - read our guide to planning a hen party abroad here
Set up a hen party WhatsApp group or email list
Save the date with the guests and give them a general idea of what you'll be doing, where you'll be going - ask anyone who definitely can't make it to let you know now (as this may impact pricing and the choice of activities)

3 Months Out

Decide on a theme, if applicable
Provisionally book accommodation
Book any group activities
Reserve areas in bars, book tables for restaurants, book guest lists for nightclubs, etc.
Price up the hen, make sure you cover the cost of the bride, any decor or goodie bags, and leave contingency for any cancellations - any money left over can go on bubbly!

2 Months Out

Send out more complete details of the hen; what you'll be doing, where you'll be staying, how you'll be getting there, and what the cost will be (and what their money is covering)
Be sure to tell the hens which elements are a surprise for the bride
Let them know if they need to book or arrange any elements themselves like transport, certain clothing, etc
Request anything you need for a hen book - photos, quotes, recipes etc and give them a deadline
Collect a deposit from all of the hens - select a date that they'll need to send it on by to lock in their place
Once you have the numbers, confirm the accommodation and any other reservations

1 Month Out

Make a general timeline for the day/weekend - you want to ensure there is a flow and that you've left enough time for activities and maybe even downtime, rather than overfilling the schedule
Decide on any hen party regalia you might want to buy or a theme, and start researching and shopping; goodie bags, T-shirts, decorations, novelty straws, you know the drill - we've got a list of where to find non-tacky hen items here
Start working on any DIY items you want to make for the bride; photo book, customised denim jacket, flower crown etc

Two Weeks Out

Decide on hen party games and prepare them; get ideas here and here
Make a hen party playlist - here's one we prepared earlier!
Pre-book taxis or buses if possible
Collect the balance of the money if you can, so you're not messing around with cash on the day
Send out a reminder if you need photos or if the hens need to wear something in particular

One Week Out

Send out the general timeline of the day/weekend, include a meeting point and time, it's wise to include meals so everyone knows when they'll be eating
It's a good idea to supply a list of contact details or set up a Whatsapp group for the weekend, if you haven't used one for planning
Don't forget to tell the bride where she needs to be and what she needs to bring!

The Day Before

Go for a glam sesh with your hen; mani/pedis, a blow dry, a tan
Shop for any drinks or snacks for the group
Confirm any activities or transport - check the weather if that will impact your plans
Rope in some helpers if you need to carry stuff from A to B or set up a room

On the Day

Keep the day moving (without getting too bossy about it!)
Set up the games - look out for anyone who's on their own and make sure everyone is mixing
Ensure your bride is relaxed and happy
Have lots of fun and take lots of pictures!

Get more tips and ideas on all things hen parties!