Written By: Holly of 'LUXit Beauty'  |  Last Updated: 27.03.2024

If you’re planning your hen’s event and wondering how to add that X-factor, you might be the perfect candidate for an at-home beauty bar, offering your friends and family the chance to treat themselves and have their own glam squad at the ready. The team from LUXit, Australia’s premier mobile and beauty concierge, share their top 5 ways you can enjoy a beauty bar on this fun-filled, special day (or night!).

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link below. Please see our Disclaimer for more info :)
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​Related: Pamper Party Ideas
​Related: Spa Party Tips

Written By: Nep of 'Kangaroo Hopping Tours'  |  Last Updated: 27.03.2024
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You've been nominated as the matron of honour and it's your responsibility to organise the Hen's Day. Now comes the hardest part... where to from here? You start searching for Hen Party ideas or activities to get the group out. With so much to choose from, it can be a daunting task.

​But then you come across an option where a lot of the planning is done for you: private wine tasting tours in beautiful locations such as the Yarra Valley!

For wine lovers, there's really no better way to spend the day!

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link below. Please see our Disclaimer for more info :)

Related: Wine Tour Hens Party Tips
Related: Wine Themed Bachelorette
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Wedding planning can be stressful, and sometimes the bride-to-be might feel like running away from it all. So why not let her? Why not grab her closest friends and family, and run away to the circus for a day?!

See below for how you can create a circus-themed party to remember!
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​This article probably contains affiliate links. This means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link below. Please see our Disclaimer for more info :)
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Related: 90+ Hen Do Theme Ideas

This theme is perfect for the hen who loves to dress up. Not only will circus attire make for some great photo ops, but it will also add to the overall fun! See below for our favourite outfit ideas:



SHOW-STOPPING MAKEUP
Encourage the group to arrive with a similar style of performer makeup (colourful eyes and lips, for example), clown makeup (rosy cheeks, dramatic eyes, red nose and red lips), or even just use the same colours (shades of red, white and yellow, for example).
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COLOUR BLOCK
A fun and easy way to bring your group together. Ask that everyone arrive wearing one particular colour (for example, pink) or a range of colours (bold and vibrant, pastels, red and white stripes, or even crazy patterns!). They can wear any item of clothing they like, as long as it fits the chosen 'theme'. If you want to make the bride-to-be the centre of attention, you could then ask her to wear all white.

Handy Tip:
Ask guests to arrive in the bride's favourite colour for a personalised touch.

Related: Thoughtful Party Ideas



SMALL ACCESSORIES
Bow ties, hair bows and clown noses are all simple yet effective ways to bring the theme to your outfit. 



GO ALL OUT
Encourage guests to dress in outfits inspired by circus performers. Think jugglers, clowns, ringmasters, acrobats, magicians, face painters, tightrope walkers, fire dancers, trapeze artists and hula hoop performers.


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IMPORTANT NOTE
If you're planning for the full circus experience (spinning, climbing, trapeze and more), be sure to dress appropriately. Circus classes require clothing that can't get caught in equipment. The golden rules are to wear anything that you can move in, be upside-down in, as well as no zippers!


To make sure everyone can join in and have a great time, specify the type of clothing allowed on your invitations (and if you're the one choosing the dress code, make sure it's something suitable for the class).

From twinkle lights to bright colours - the following décor tips will help transform your venue into the big top you desire!



CHOOSE YOUR PALETTE
Start by choosing a palette that relates to the theme. For a circus party, this could be vibrant colours such as red, yellow, white and blue. Alternatively, opt for the couple's wedding colours, pastels, or even shades of your best friend's favourite colour (pink circus, for example).



​... AND THEN START DECORATING!
Keeping your colour palette in mind, transform the venue into an exciting wonderland using a variety of circus-inspired elements.

Bunting, banners, twinkle lights and large posters (featuring performers, such as the 'fortune teller', or fun slogans, such as 'clowning around encouraged') are a great place to start. Make use of fabric or drapes to create a circus tent ceiling, and set up classic carnival game booths (such as bean bag toss or darts) for an added element of fun. 

Vintage suitcases and trunks can be placed around the venue; fitting with the 'travelling circus' theme. Whilst hay bales are a practical form of décor that can be used as guest seating.

For those feeling extra creative, a ticket booth will not only help set the scene, but can also be used as a photo booth (complete with circus-themed props!).

And if you have access to some funhouse-style mirrors, add these to the celebrations as well. Even as adults, we can't walk past these beauties without admiring our unusual (and often hilarious) reflections.

Draw inspiration from classic circus treats. Hot dogs, hot chips, popcorn, doughnuts, lollies, mini burgers, corn dogs, ice cream, nachos, toffee apples, and bags of cotton candy are all great options.

​You can then expand on this menu, if you wish, wish a variety of bright and colourful dishes. Here, fruit kebabs, fruit cups, peanuts, mini quiches, iced cupcakes and perhaps even a celebratory cake could make an appearance. 

Alternatively, bring the fun to your food/dessert table with a variety of funny, cute and themed labels instead. For example, 'Clown Noses' (bowl of red jaffas), 'World Famous Popcorn', 'Juggling Balls' (bowl of colourful, round lollies or chocolates), and 'Big Top Cupcakes'.


Go All Out
Want to bring the vibe in a bigger way? Hire food trucks and/or concession stands (cotton candy, ice-cream cart, popcorn machine + attendants). Guests can then indulge in their chosen treat at their leisure, as they would at the actual circus. Alternatively, save some $$$ by setting up self serve stands instead.

Related: DIY Food Bar Ideas

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USE COLOURS WISELY
The easiest way to tie drinks in with the rest of the 'circus' theme is to coordinate with your color scheme.

​Say your event is based on the use of reds, yellows, blues and white, for example. Choose your cocktails, jelly shots and other refreshments based on those same tones. Champagne (yellow), cosmopolitan (red), blue lagoon cocktail (blue), and vanilla milkshakes (white) will all work perfectly in this case. Get creative and have fun with the different colours you can offer.



THINK LIKE THE CIRCUS
If you want to keep the event more 'realistic', think about what drinks you could actually buy at the circus. Coffee, tea, soda and lemonade come to mind. Serve these alongside some cheeky mixers (such as vodka or gin) for party guests after an extra 'kick'.



LABEL IT!
And finally, you may like to label the drink selection. 'Magical Martinis' or 'Jugglers Juice' could work, as would one themed sign to cover all of your beverages (e.g. the words 'drinks' featured on a sign with a circus inspired border). 

For a unique twist that steps away from your carnival-themed party, you could also play around with labels that describe the bride-to-be (e.g. Jodie + Martini = 'Joditini'). A fun and personalised touch that the bride is sure to love!

Related: Personalised Party Ideas

​Traditional carnival games (such as ring toss, bean bag toss, dart throwing and balloon darts) are great, themed options. Set up as DIY stations around your venue so that guests can participate if and when they please.

For a more knowledge-based game, circus trivia is the perfect way to get everyone's minds ticking. Feature questions based on circus terminology, the different performers and acts, and even famous circus movies.

And finally, if you're after a little competition, a cheeky contest could be the way to go.

Who can hula hoop the longest? Who can eat the most cotton candy? Who can finish a circus themed relay (featuring challenges such as juggling and balancing activities) first? And who can create the most contorted poses (a.k.a. the 'human pretzel'!)? Set up teams and compete in a round robin event to see who comes out as 'circus performers of the day'!

​Related: 40+ Hen Party Game Ideas

CIRCUS SKILLS CLASS
What happens at an adult circus party? First of all, you get to learn a whole lot of new skills (with plenty of Instagramable moments to capture along the way!).

Depending where you go, you may get to learn the art of hula hoop, juggling and balancing. As well as the basics of aerial skills, trapeze and lyra (the aerial hoop); which will have you working up a sweat, whilst simultaneously leaving everyone amazed at what their bodies can do.

It’s one thing to go to the circus and see the aerialists fly over your head, but getting up there yourself is a whole different experience!

Note:
Some guests may be a bit nervous at the start of the class (feeling as though they’re not strong enough, brave enough, or anything else enough), but experienced trainers will soon put their mind at ease, making sure they’re comfortable, having an amazing time and wanting more by the end.



CIRCUS PERFORMERS
If learning the skills isn't quite your bag, why not hire some local circus performers and watch their skills in action instead? 

From a mesmerizing fire show to stilt walkers and magicians; there are so many incredible ways to WOW your group (whilst keeping YOUR feet firmly on the ground!). 




PHOTO BOOTH
​The outfits, the theme, the props - this type of event is just begging to be caught on camera! And what better way to do so than with a photo booth? 

There are two ways to do this. Hire one (the film strips, and potentially the backdrop, can be customised to go with your theme). Or create one yourself.

Want to DIY it?
First, decide on your 'photo booth' location. Will it be in front of a plain wall? In the garden? Or will you go all out with a circus party backdrop? Once the area is sorted, source some circus inspired props (such as clown noses, clown hats, giant bow ties, hula hoops, or ribbons). Place these on a table next to your 'booth'. 

The way in which your guests can capture these moments is then up to you. You could provide a tripod or selfie stick (happy snaps can then be taken with timers), provide polaroid cameras and film, or leave it up to your party pals to take pictures of each other when asked!



​FACE PAINTING
Not just for the youngsters! Hire a face painting professional who is more than happy to transform your guests into any circus related character they please!

​Handy Tip:
​For a more sophisticated take on this activity, why not organise a beauty bar? Similar to face painting, the professionals can create beautiful characters and themes - but with the use of makeup rather than paint. 

Related: Beauty Bar Bachelorette



FORTUNE TELLER
Add a touch of mystery to your event with a fortune tell or tarot card reader. A unique and unexpected activity that is reminiscent of the big top tent.

Related: 90+ Bachelorette Activity Ideas

​Send guests home with a little 'carnival prize' to thank them for being such a special part of the day. See below for some of our favourite themed options that are sure to make them smile!

Everyone wants to feel strong, amazing and confident in their body – and you will feel all of this and more whilst having the time of your life and learning new skills.
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So why not bring your best friend and her closest pals along to the circus and feel like the super women you are?!

If you decide to go ahead with a circus party theme and EVERYTHING it has to offer, we'd love to hear about your experience! You can share your decorations, activities, games and more via the comments below or social media ​(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest). We absolutely LOVE hearing about your parties, and so do our wonderful readers :-)

Cheers to an AMAZING event full of tricks!

Much love, keep smiling - Bec x

You're planning the day, night or weekend to celebrate your amazing best friend and her upcoming nuptials; and you're after some bridal shower and/or hen party activities?

​Well, with a list SO long you'll soon be struggling to decide what NOT to do, you've definitely come to the right place! See below for a vast array of options catering to all party styles and personalities.

This article probably contains affiliate links. This means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link below. Please see our Disclaimer for more info :)

Related:Ultimate List of Hen Party Games
Related: Unique Hen Party Ideas
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​OUTDOOR HEN PARTY ACTIVITIES
After an adrenaline rush? Why not plan an exciting day out with one of these adventure filled options?. Party-goers will not only get out of their comfort zone, but will also leave the celebration with a wicked new skill. And when you're all ready to cool down? Continue the celebrations with champagne, platters and re-caps of your incredible day!

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WATER HEN DO ACTIVITIES
For the water loving hen, a day spent by the beach, pool or river could be exactly what she needs! Paired with sunshine, delicious food and amazing drinks; you've got yourself a winner of a day.

CHEEKY HENS NIGHT ACTIVITIES

Planning your wedding can be so stressful and time-consuming it feels like a full-time job in itself.

Why not make your hens party something that will help relieve that stress, rather than add to it? Get your friends together and have a girls night in pamper party.

Not only can you set the mood for the night with some relaxing music for your guests to arrive to (search for ‘Smooth Jazz’ playlists on YouTube or Spotify). But you can also play a few party games, enjoy some mini treatments, and have an all-round amazing time! 

Find our favourite tips for pamper parties below.

Related: Chilled Hen Party Ideas
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Light some scented candles to give the room a calm atmosphere. Choose scents proven to enhance relaxation, such as lavender or vanilla.

Before your guests arrive, set up stations around the room with:

• A portable foot spa and towels (add a drop of peppermint oil to the water to leave feet smelling fresh).
• A table with a bowl of warm water, some hand scrub and hand towels (if you don’t have a hand scrub available, it’s easy to whip some up with just white sugar and coconut or olive oil).
• A table with natural hand cream for hand massages. Start at the base of the hand and work your way towards the fingers in slow, concentric circles.
• A table with nail polishes and cotton tips (depending on how close it is to the wedding day, you will want to make sure the nail polish is the right colour for members of the bridal party and that application is neat and tidy).

​Rotate around the stations in pairs or groups.

Handy Hint:
Beauty treatments are another extra special to spoil your guests. Hair braiding, a make-up station, or even themed tutorials (such as vintage makeovers) all pair well with spa treatments. For more inspiration, click here.

The benefits of a DIY mini facial are endless. It can instantly make your skin look radiant and it helps to keep your skin in optimum health. It’s also a great way to unwind and treat yourself.


STEP 1
Be sure to take your makeup off before you begin your pamper party.


STEP 2: FACIAL STEAMING
Do the facial steaming first to open up pores so that the face mask can penetrate deep and nourish the skin. You can use rooibos, chamomile or green tea. Add 1 tablespoon of loose tea to a bowl, pour over hot water and wait a couple of minutes so you don’t burn your face with the hot steam. When the temperature is right, place your face over the bowl and place a towel over your head.
Do this for about 5 to 8 minutes.


STEP 3: FOLLOW UP WITH DIY FACE MASKS
Cucumber is one of the best kitchen ingredients to soothe, heal, and re-hydrate dry skin. Combined with Greek yoghurt or natural plain yoghurt, you can create an awesome face mask to nourish your skin and make it supple and smooth again!
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Yoghurt contains antibacterial and antibiotic properties that help treat bacteria. It deep cleanses, nourishes and softens the skin. Only use plain, unsweetened, and unflavoured yoghurt to avoid any skin irritations and rashes.

Pat dry with a towel and apply a thick coat of the face mask to your face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes.

When the time is up, gently rinse off the face mask using lukewarm water. Pat dry with a soft clean towel.


STEP 4
Apply a hydrating, natural moisturiser.

You might prefer to hire a mobile massage service and all take turns having professional massages in a separate room.

Related: Beauty Bar Bachelorette

The perfect addition to a pamper party for adults! To add an element of fun to your special occasion, hire a bartender to come and make cocktails for all the girls or find one who will teach a class on making cocktails with what you have at home.

For a simple, yet indulgent, treat you can’t go past fresh fruit and chocolate fondue.

Melt the chocolate slowly in the microwave or on the stove top, with the chocolate in a bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Prepare and serve in a bowl right before it’s time to eat.

​Fruits like strawberries, banana pieces and apple slices will always be winners here, but you can experiment with others like pineapple and pear.

​Have separate bowls of white chocolate, milk chocolate and dark chocolate to add variety without much extra effort.

After you’re done pampering each other, put on your dressing gowns and slippers, and get comfortable watching a classic chick flick. This would also be a great time to pair up and give each other neck and shoulder massages.
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As Anne Lamott once wrote – “Joy is the best makeup”, so have a pampering night in with the girls and give yourself that beautiful glow that comes from being happy and relaxed!

And last, but certainly not least - the party bags.

If you would like to gift your guests some indulgent goodies or sweet treats, now is a great time to do so. 

Bubble bath, bath bombs, hair accessories, essential oils, natural makeup, nail stickers, nail polish, or even gourmet chocolates all make for gorgeous favours that pair well with the pamper party theme.

Handy Tip:
​These items could be pre-packed and handed out at the end of your special day. Or, a variety of products could be set out on a table - ready for guests to fill gift bags themselves (meaning everyone will leave with a little something they will actually use & enjoy!).

​Related: Eco Gift Ideas
Related: Hen Party Gift Bag Tips

NATURAL & CRUELTY-FREE SKINCARE
Mel Driver is the creator of Embalm Skincare and a multi-award winning skincare formulator. Her passion for a natural and holistic approach started when she experienced a severe allergic reaction to off the shelf hand sanitizer.

Mel is armed with a Diploma in Organic Skin Care Science, and her mission is to formulate products to help women restore and maintain a healthy glow. Using Australian native botanicals, Embalm Skincare is one of a few skincare brands on the market that offer a 30 Day Money Back Guarantee.
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Try it for yourself, you will love Embalm Skincare!

Available: Australia-wide

Whether your best friend is a creative soul, you want to do something unique as a group, or you’re simply after a way to celebrate that is different to the ‘typical’ hen’s night style, the following inspiration is for you. Fun and unlike anything you have ever done before, the wonderfully imaginative and classy hen party ideas below will definitely not disappoint. Enjoy! ​

​This article probably contains affiliate links. This means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link below. Please see our Disclaimer for more info :)
​
Related: 90+ Hen Party Activity Ideas
Related: Hen Night Ideas for Every Bride

FOR THE CREATIVES

​The perfect opportunity to spend quality time with fellow hens, whilst learning new skills and letting your creative side shine! Pair with some thoughtful games, personalised touches, and delicious food for a truly fun and memorable event.
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FOR THE FOODIES

From gourmet meals in cosy pubs, to creating your own cocktail from scratch; when it comes to experiencing the wonder of food and drink, there are plenty of options. So whether the bride loves to indulge in a bottle of wine, devour a good meal, or lean in to her sweet tooth every so often; treating your queen to an incredible foodie outing is easier than ever!
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FOR THE CHEEKY ONES

Whilst the following activities err on the side of cheek, they are designed to be more tame (but just as hilarious) as their crude counterparts. Put simply, they are the best way to add a little naughty to your day, without going too far!
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