AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
No matter the occasion, celebrations take a great deal of time and thought to orchestrate. Which is exactly why I want to share these wonderful Kitchen Tea, Bridal Shower and Hen Party Planning tips with you. Straight from the mouths of professional event planners the world over, tips and tricks like these will not only make your planning easier, but will also take it to the next level! THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO. 
APPEARANCES MATTER...
“There’s a reason social media sites such as Pinterest and Instagram are so popular – and that’s the fact people LOVE to look at beautiful photos. In fact, you’d probably be hard pressed to find a bride who hadn’t set up a board or two with inspiration for her own big day. With this in mind, take the lesson to heart that appearances matter and put in the time and effort to create a beautiful space with real wow factor.
It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money to do this. One of our favourite touches is Party Picks, which are small messages attached to toothpicks that you can insert into everything from cupcakes to macarons. They’re exactly the sort of thing you would see in an editorial wedding shoot, and help elevate a sense of style. Oversized balloons are also on trend right now, as are gorgeous tassles in hues ranging from pastel to metallic. Brides are also loving handmade celebration flags, which are attached to retro stripe and polka dot straws and have messages such as “hooray” and “kitchen tea”. They look especially appearling sitting in a mini milk bottle full of Pimms or punch, again enhancing the idea that little touches can have a big impact. Something else you can also never go wrong with is bunting, especially if it pays tribute to the woman of the hour. Other great decorative ideas include massive paper flowers in vases, mason jars filled with biscuits and candy, and of course, as many awesome but slightly embarrassing photos of the hen as you can find.” - Amy De Groot (easyweddings.com.au) 
IT’S NOT ABOUT HOW MUCH MONEY THE HOST SPENDS...
“The ultimate [celebrations] are not about how much money the host spends... but rather how creative the planner gets. The most memorable events are the ones that make us FEEL deeply!
While it’s wonderful to shower the bride with gifts, the experience is way more important than the amount of things she ultimately takes home. Consider choosing a theme that has meaning and significance for the bride – a tribute to her childhood or something that celebrates her passions. Anything goes these days so think outside the box and don’t be afraid to try something new. I’ve seen everything from life drawing with a nude model (for the artist bride) to a full on carnival-themed extravaganza complete with flame throwers and elephants!” - Hayley Devlin (hayleydevlin.com) 
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE LOCATION...
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ARTICLES RELATED TO PERSONALISED HEN PARTY IDEAS:
If you enjoyed the above personalised hen party inspiration, we think you will also love the following thoughtful articles. First in the list... not your typical 'guest book'! These ideas are fun, unique and memorable ways to wish your bride-to-be well. Then there is this beautiful, thoughtful game - 'Snap That'; click here for instructions!
ENJOY TREATING YOUR BEST FRIEND TO A PERSONALISED HEN PARTY!
Before signing off I want to take a moment to remind you that you don't need to do absolutely everything in this list to make your best friend feel special. The mere fact that you've incorporated some of her faovurite things into the day... that you've shown how much thought you put into the celebration... that's what will bring her happiness!
As always, I’d love to hear your ideas/real life experiences – so please share your pictures and/or personalised hen party tips to myself and the rest of the For Every Hen community via the comments section below or social media.
Cheers to an incredibly memorable celebration!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)
As always, I’d love to hear your ideas/real life experiences – so please share your pictures and/or personalised hen party tips to myself and the rest of the For Every Hen community via the comments section below or social media.
Cheers to an incredibly memorable celebration!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE PERSONALISED HEN PARTY IDEAS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
So you’re hosting a Kitchen Tea for your best friend/sibling and cannot wait to start planning! Which begs the question... where exactly do you start your planning? And what exactly do you need to plan for? Jam packed full of amazing Kitchen Tea ideas, this article 100% has your back! From those early chats with the bride-to-be, right through to activities and games, everything you need to know about hosting a memorable Kitchen Tea is outlined below!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
So you’re hosting a Kitchen Tea for your best friend/sibling and cannot wait to start planning! Which begs the question... where exactly do you start your planning? And what exactly do you need to plan for? Jam packed full of amazing Kitchen Tea ideas, this article 100% has your back! From those early chats with the bride-to-be, right through to activities and games, everything you need to know about hosting a memorable Kitchen Tea is outlined below!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
START YOUR KITCHEN TEA PLANNING EARLY
The best tip I can give you is to start your planning early! Whilst it may not appear to be, organising a Kitchen Tea is quite the job. Every task, no matter how big or small, adds up. Meaning if you want to create a beautiful, thoughtful event, you will need to put in the time and effort.
CATCH UP WITH THE BRIDE
Before you start to plan anything it’s a great idea to have a chat with your beautiful bride to make sure you’re both on the same page. At your catch up, it’s important to get an idea of the following:
WHAT TYPE OF CELEBRATION IS SHE REALLY AFTER?
Before you go ahead and plan an incredibly beautiful kitchen tea, make sure it’s what she really wants! You don’t want to go to all of this effort only to find out that she was hoping for a bridal shower, or even a hen’s party.
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HEN PARTY, BRIDAL SHOWER & KITCHEN TEA EVENTS! <<<
WHEN DOES SHE WANT TO HAVE THE KITCHEN TEA?
Once you’ve established the fact that it’s a Kitchen Tea she’s after, it’s time to work out a date! It’s best to let your bride-to-be pick a day and time that suits her.
On the one hand, wedding planning is HUGE so she’s likely to be pretty busy in the lead-up to her special day (meaning hosting the Kitchen Tea at least two weeks before her nuptials is ideal). On the other hand, if you host the event closer to her wedding, it’s more likely that guests from out of town will be able to attend.
Let her weigh up the pros and cons of each scenario, and come to a decision that works best for her situation. Then pop it in the calendar!
WHO DOES SHE WANT TO INVITE?
Traditionally, a Kitchen Tea is reserved for female friends and family members; but in this day and age there’s no reason close male friend/s and family can’t attend as well (if the bride-to-be wishes, of course!). A Kitchen Tea is also the perfect type of celebration for all generations, with grandmothers and children alike finding it an enjoyable occasion.
With all of this in mind, it’s best to have your bride-to-be write out a guest list for you. This means that everyone she wants to share this special day with has the opportunity to attend!
WHAT TYPE OF CELEBRATION IS SHE REALLY AFTER?
Before you go ahead and plan an incredibly beautiful kitchen tea, make sure it’s what she really wants! You don’t want to go to all of this effort only to find out that she was hoping for a bridal shower, or even a hen’s party.
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HEN PARTY, BRIDAL SHOWER & KITCHEN TEA EVENTS! <<<
WHEN DOES SHE WANT TO HAVE THE KITCHEN TEA?
Once you’ve established the fact that it’s a Kitchen Tea she’s after, it’s time to work out a date! It’s best to let your bride-to-be pick a day and time that suits her.
On the one hand, wedding planning is HUGE so she’s likely to be pretty busy in the lead-up to her special day (meaning hosting the Kitchen Tea at least two weeks before her nuptials is ideal). On the other hand, if you host the event closer to her wedding, it’s more likely that guests from out of town will be able to attend.
Let her weigh up the pros and cons of each scenario, and come to a decision that works best for her situation. Then pop it in the calendar!
WHO DOES SHE WANT TO INVITE?
Traditionally, a Kitchen Tea is reserved for female friends and family members; but in this day and age there’s no reason close male friend/s and family can’t attend as well (if the bride-to-be wishes, of course!). A Kitchen Tea is also the perfect type of celebration for all generations, with grandmothers and children alike finding it an enjoyable occasion.
With all of this in mind, it’s best to have your bride-to-be write out a guest list for you. This means that everyone she wants to share this special day with has the opportunity to attend!
SAVE THE DATE
★Click here to view a selection of fun ‘Save the Date’ E-vites★
Woohoo! It's time to put the word out to those lucky enough to score an invite! By sending out a ‘Save the Date’ early you’re giving everyone a greater chance of being able to attend (babysitters can be organised, work can be moved around, etc.).
Woohoo! It's time to put the word out to those lucky enough to score an invite! By sending out a ‘Save the Date’ early you’re giving everyone a greater chance of being able to attend (babysitters can be organised, work can be moved around, etc.).
Share the upcoming special date with your bride-to-be’s guest list via digital E-vite (you can find some fun options by clicking here), email, physical post or even a Facebook event page and get everyone pumped for what will be an incredibly fun day!
START BRAINSTORMING
Thanks to your new intel (from the bride-to-be herself!), you now know when the party will be, who is invited, and the fact that it’s a Kitchen Tea she’s after. With this information at hand, it’s now time to move to the next stage of your planning – brainstorming!
If you haven’t already, get in touch with the other bridesmaids (and/or family members who are helping to plan the Kitchen Tea). An email thread or group conversation on Facebook is a great way to connect with each other and share Kitchen Tea ideas.
Chat about everything from themes, games, activities, food, drinks and gift ideas through to prizes, favours and special ways to personalise the day (e.g. by ordering bunches of her favourite flowers to use as part of the decorations). By putting your heads together you’ll be able to come up with an event tailored to your bride-to-be; one that is well thought out, meaningful and so special!
Tip: Not sure what to do at a kitchen tea? There is some great inspiration (everything from activities to favours) further down in this article!
If you haven’t already, get in touch with the other bridesmaids (and/or family members who are helping to plan the Kitchen Tea). An email thread or group conversation on Facebook is a great way to connect with each other and share Kitchen Tea ideas.
Chat about everything from themes, games, activities, food, drinks and gift ideas through to prizes, favours and special ways to personalise the day (e.g. by ordering bunches of her favourite flowers to use as part of the decorations). By putting your heads together you’ll be able to come up with an event tailored to your bride-to-be; one that is well thought out, meaningful and so special!
Tip: Not sure what to do at a kitchen tea? There is some great inspiration (everything from activities to favours) further down in this article!
SET A BUDGET
Now that you have a few ideas rolling around, it’s time to set a budget (a realistic one!). Unlike hen parties, guests attending a Kitchen Tea or Bridal Shower aren’t asked to make a monetary donation towards the day (because gift giving is involved). Rather, the host pays for it all.
It’s important to keep this detail in mind; you don’t want to stretch yourself financially. That being said, the overall costs can be split between bridesmaids and/or family members if they are helping to host the event.
It’s important to keep this detail in mind; you don’t want to stretch yourself financially. That being said, the overall costs can be split between bridesmaids and/or family members if they are helping to host the event.
DECIDE ON A LOCATION
Despite the name suggesting that a Kitchen Tea is to be held in, well, a kitchen, when it comes to the venue, the possibilities are pretty endless!
Depending on your budget, a Kitchen Tea could be held at a home (bridesmaids, Maid of Honour, or Mother of the Bride’s houses are all fabulous options) or a hired venue. You could also book a table at your bride-to-be’s favourite cafe/restaurant, or venture into the outdoors; hosting the celebration at a park, near the beach, in the forest, or in a backyard.
Depending on your budget, a Kitchen Tea could be held at a home (bridesmaids, Maid of Honour, or Mother of the Bride’s houses are all fabulous options) or a hired venue. You could also book a table at your bride-to-be’s favourite cafe/restaurant, or venture into the outdoors; hosting the celebration at a park, near the beach, in the forest, or in a backyard.
SET A THEME
Not essential, but definitely an exciting little surprise for guests and bride-to-be alike! Sweet and classy Kitchen Tea themes such as Mad Hatter Tea Party, Boho, Vintage, White, Her Favourite Colour, Pastels, Fairytale, Handmade, Flowers, Winter, Summer or even Tropical are all popular options. Keep it simple and elegant, with a touch of fun!
Tip: I personally find it easier to decorate when I have a theme in mind. It doesn't have to be anything elaborate. Even picking a few colours (e.g. white, light pink and light purple) makes everything so much easier.
This doesn't mean you go all out in the decor department (because sometimes less really is more). It just means that when you're choosing bunches of flowers, for instance, you stick to that same colour palette (white, light pink and light purple). Everything will flow nicely that way.
Tip: I personally find it easier to decorate when I have a theme in mind. It doesn't have to be anything elaborate. Even picking a few colours (e.g. white, light pink and light purple) makes everything so much easier.
This doesn't mean you go all out in the decor department (because sometimes less really is more). It just means that when you're choosing bunches of flowers, for instance, you stick to that same colour palette (white, light pink and light purple). Everything will flow nicely that way.
Photo credit: littlemisspartyplanner.com.au
SURPRISE THE BRIDE WITH A KITCHEN TEA ACTIVITY
Just because it’s not a hen party doesn’t mean you can’t surprise your beautiful girl with a sweet activity or two! Below are some of our favourite options (many of which slot in perfectly with the overall ‘Kitchen’ theme!):
BAKING PARTY
Kitchen Teas are all about sharing knowledge with others. One of the best ways to do this is by sharing a family recipe and baking it all-together!
A special bonding experience (especially if this is a recipe passed down through many generations) that results in good food and conversation (because, you have to eat what you make!). Working as a group, wine in hand, learning new tricks and creating a delicious feast – it’s bound to be one memorable experience.
BEAUTIFUL BOUQUETS
Fill a cart or table with an assortment of beautiful flowers. At some point during the day, announce to the party that it’s time get creative. Draw their attention to the flowers and explain that they aren’t just for decoration – they are, in fact, an activity!
Ask guests to make their way to the table and pick out a few of their favourite blooms. Once everyone has a handful of flowers, it’s time to gather around the kitchen table. Bring out craft supplies such as scissors, ribbons and twine so that each guest can then create their very own take-home ‘wedding bouquets’! A fun activity and favour all in one.
Tip: if you want to make a lasting bouquet, consider using dried flowers rather than fresh!
BISCUIT DECORATING
A wonderful Kitchen Tea activity that any age can (and will) enjoy! Make sure you have enough edible decorations (such as sprinkles, icing in a range of colours, shaved chocolate, etc.) for all; then watch in awe as plain biscuits are transformed into heavenly treats before your eyes.
You could even make a little competition out of it, requesting guests create ‘wedding themed’ biscuits; handing out a special prize for the masterpiece judged ‘most creative’ by the bride-to-be!
CUPCAKE DRESSES
Similar to above, but rather than sticking to the general ‘wedding’ theme, this time make the rules a little stricter!
Provide guests with piping bags, icing and edible decorations; then leave them to create cute wedding dresses on top of their cupcakes. Take it one step further by printing off small images of your bride-to-be’s face and sticking them to the top of toothpicks. Carefully place these picks into the ‘cupcake dresses’; demonstrating how b-e-a-utiful your bride would look in these sweet-as-can-be outfits on her wedding day!
Side note: This activity could also be used as a cheeky competition - chosen by your bride-to-be, the top 'fashion designer' wins a prize!
EDIBLE KITCHEN GARDEN
Why not help your bride-to-be set up an edible garden for the kitchen by organising a bit of a herb planting sesh?!
Set up a table filled with pots, herb seeds (or starter plants), soil, gloves and small shovels. From here, it’s up to guests (and the bride) to get their hands dirty. And the best part about this activity? These mini herb gardens provide entertainment AND a lasting favour all in one!
HIRE A CARICATURE ARTIST
For a kitchen tea with a very unique twist, why not invest some coin in having a caricature artist come to the party? The bride-to-be along with each of her guests will have the opportunity to be sketched; resulting in gifts/favours that will be forever treasured! It also provides MANY giggles, oohs and ahhs as those watching on see the caricature of their friend come to life in real time!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HAVING A CARICATURE ARTIST AT YOUR PARTY <<<
LIVE MUSIC
If your bestie enjoys nothing more than hitting up the gig scene, or sitting back and listening to some chilled out tunes, incorporate her love for music by hiring a local musician to entertain. The mix of acoustic melodies, good food, good people and good wine is a recipe for success.
SPLURGE ON PROFESSIONAL CHEFS
If you have cash to splash, there is also the option of hosting a cooking class. Either hire a personal chef to cook restaurant quality food for guests in your home (everyone can watch on and learn some sneaky tricks of the trade at the same time!), or take part in a cooking class at a dedicated venue (whereby guests create their own meals, before sitting down and eating their concoctions together).
SPOIL HER WITH A TIME CAPSULE
Help your best friend and her husband celebrate their one year wedding anniversary with a sweet time capsule. To organise, you’ll need to prepare guests before the celebration by asking them to do one or more of the following:
BAKING PARTY
Kitchen Teas are all about sharing knowledge with others. One of the best ways to do this is by sharing a family recipe and baking it all-together!
A special bonding experience (especially if this is a recipe passed down through many generations) that results in good food and conversation (because, you have to eat what you make!). Working as a group, wine in hand, learning new tricks and creating a delicious feast – it’s bound to be one memorable experience.
BEAUTIFUL BOUQUETS
Fill a cart or table with an assortment of beautiful flowers. At some point during the day, announce to the party that it’s time get creative. Draw their attention to the flowers and explain that they aren’t just for decoration – they are, in fact, an activity!
Ask guests to make their way to the table and pick out a few of their favourite blooms. Once everyone has a handful of flowers, it’s time to gather around the kitchen table. Bring out craft supplies such as scissors, ribbons and twine so that each guest can then create their very own take-home ‘wedding bouquets’! A fun activity and favour all in one.
Tip: if you want to make a lasting bouquet, consider using dried flowers rather than fresh!
BISCUIT DECORATING
A wonderful Kitchen Tea activity that any age can (and will) enjoy! Make sure you have enough edible decorations (such as sprinkles, icing in a range of colours, shaved chocolate, etc.) for all; then watch in awe as plain biscuits are transformed into heavenly treats before your eyes.
You could even make a little competition out of it, requesting guests create ‘wedding themed’ biscuits; handing out a special prize for the masterpiece judged ‘most creative’ by the bride-to-be!
CUPCAKE DRESSES
Similar to above, but rather than sticking to the general ‘wedding’ theme, this time make the rules a little stricter!
Provide guests with piping bags, icing and edible decorations; then leave them to create cute wedding dresses on top of their cupcakes. Take it one step further by printing off small images of your bride-to-be’s face and sticking them to the top of toothpicks. Carefully place these picks into the ‘cupcake dresses’; demonstrating how b-e-a-utiful your bride would look in these sweet-as-can-be outfits on her wedding day!
Side note: This activity could also be used as a cheeky competition - chosen by your bride-to-be, the top 'fashion designer' wins a prize!
EDIBLE KITCHEN GARDEN
Why not help your bride-to-be set up an edible garden for the kitchen by organising a bit of a herb planting sesh?!
Set up a table filled with pots, herb seeds (or starter plants), soil, gloves and small shovels. From here, it’s up to guests (and the bride) to get their hands dirty. And the best part about this activity? These mini herb gardens provide entertainment AND a lasting favour all in one!
HIRE A CARICATURE ARTIST
For a kitchen tea with a very unique twist, why not invest some coin in having a caricature artist come to the party? The bride-to-be along with each of her guests will have the opportunity to be sketched; resulting in gifts/favours that will be forever treasured! It also provides MANY giggles, oohs and ahhs as those watching on see the caricature of their friend come to life in real time!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HAVING A CARICATURE ARTIST AT YOUR PARTY <<<
LIVE MUSIC
If your bestie enjoys nothing more than hitting up the gig scene, or sitting back and listening to some chilled out tunes, incorporate her love for music by hiring a local musician to entertain. The mix of acoustic melodies, good food, good people and good wine is a recipe for success.
SPLURGE ON PROFESSIONAL CHEFS
If you have cash to splash, there is also the option of hosting a cooking class. Either hire a personal chef to cook restaurant quality food for guests in your home (everyone can watch on and learn some sneaky tricks of the trade at the same time!), or take part in a cooking class at a dedicated venue (whereby guests create their own meals, before sitting down and eating their concoctions together).
SPOIL HER WITH A TIME CAPSULE
Help your best friend and her husband celebrate their one year wedding anniversary with a sweet time capsule. To organise, you’ll need to prepare guests before the celebration by asking them to do one or more of the following:
- Bring an additional, small, wrapped gift to the Kitchen Tea (a unique kitchen utensil, for example)
- Write down date night ideas for the happy couple to complete during their second year of marriage
- Write down memories you have of the couple (e.g. what happened the first time you met them)
- Wishes for the bride and her husband
- Recipes for a happy marriage
- Special recipes the couple can cook together
- A memento of their friendship with the couple (e.g. photos from years ago)
- A surprise (this can be anything the guest wishes to write/bring)
Ask everyone to add their goodies to the ‘time capsule’ box as they arrive (or throughout the party).
Seal the box once the celebration has wrapped up and gift to your best friend. Make sure you give her strict instructions NOT to open it before her wedding anniversary! If she doesn’t think she’ll last, keep it at your place and gift it to her one year later – what a beautiful surprise it will be!
Seal the box once the celebration has wrapped up and gift to your best friend. Make sure you give her strict instructions NOT to open it before her wedding anniversary! If she doesn’t think she’ll last, keep it at your place and gift it to her one year later – what a beautiful surprise it will be!
SEND YOUR KITCHEN TEA INVITATIONS
Now that you have an idea of where the celebration will be, whether or not it will be themed, and what (if any) activities you'll be participating in, it's time to tell the guests! When putting your Kitcen Tea invitations together, make sure you include the following points:
- What the event is, and who it's for
- The date of the celebration and the time it will start (you may wish to include an approximate end time as well)
- Where the event will be held (house, cafe, restaurant, garden)
- Whether or not the Kitchen Tea details on this invite are to be kept a secret from the bride-to-be - meaning you can surprise her on her special day!
- Whether or not guests have to bring anything (i.e. a kitchen gift for the bride-to-be, notes for the time capsule, etc.)
- RSVP date and time, alongside your phone number and email
If you decide to do one or two activities and wish to let the guests in on these plans, don't forget to put this information on the invites too. For example, if you're hiring a musician for the day, let guests know when the performance will start so that everyone arrives in plenty of time.
That being said, it can be fun to surprise guests as well - imagine arriving at a celebration and, surprise, finding live acoustic music in the lounge-room!
That being said, it can be fun to surprise guests as well - imagine arriving at a celebration and, surprise, finding live acoustic music in the lounge-room!
PLAY SOME GAMES FOR A KITCHEN TEA
Whether they’re used as ice-breakers or to add a bit of lighthearted fun to the day, having a few Kitchen Tea games up your sleeve is definitely a must!
BRIDAL TRIVIA
Create your very own trivia game, based entirely on your best friend! To organise, have a chat with your bride-to-be about her fun, weird, interesting and silly quirks (the ones she’s happy to share), and make up questions to go along with her answers.
At the Kitchen Tea, separate guests into groups and, one by one, make your way through each of your pre-written questions. The team who gets the most correct win a prize!
HE SAID SHE SAID
★Click here for He Said She Said question inspiration★
First things first – you need to come up with some super cute couple questions to ask the bride and groom! These can be anything from ‘who met the future in-laws first’ to ‘who proposed?’. Tailor these to your friends as best you can. Print off your questions and head on over to your fave couples house; asking them to fill out their answers.
At the party, hand each guest (or team) a piece of paper and a pen. Now, slowly read out the questions to the group; asking players to write down their answers as you go. When you’ve finished, have your bride-to-be read out the actual answers. One point is awarded for every correct answer; with the person/team receiving the most points at the end being the winner/s.
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOW TO PLAY THE ULTIMATE 'HE SAID SHE SAID' GAME <<<
Create your very own trivia game, based entirely on your best friend! To organise, have a chat with your bride-to-be about her fun, weird, interesting and silly quirks (the ones she’s happy to share), and make up questions to go along with her answers.
At the Kitchen Tea, separate guests into groups and, one by one, make your way through each of your pre-written questions. The team who gets the most correct win a prize!
HE SAID SHE SAID
★Click here for He Said She Said question inspiration★
First things first – you need to come up with some super cute couple questions to ask the bride and groom! These can be anything from ‘who met the future in-laws first’ to ‘who proposed?’. Tailor these to your friends as best you can. Print off your questions and head on over to your fave couples house; asking them to fill out their answers.
At the party, hand each guest (or team) a piece of paper and a pen. Now, slowly read out the questions to the group; asking players to write down their answers as you go. When you’ve finished, have your bride-to-be read out the actual answers. One point is awarded for every correct answer; with the person/team receiving the most points at the end being the winner/s.
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOW TO PLAY THE ULTIMATE 'HE SAID SHE SAID' GAME <<<
KITCHEN TEA BINGO
When it comes to playing time, ask each party-goer to fill in the blank squares with gifts they think the bride-to-be will receive. As your beautiful bride opens her presents, guests must watch on closely and cross off any gifts that they wrote down before the game started. First to get five in a row (and yell 'BINGO') wins!
MR & MRS QUIZ
This game requires a little bit of organisation (but it is definitely worth it!). A few weeks before the party, ask the soon-to-be husband to answer some questions about himself, his soon-to-be bride, and their relationship. When coming up with these questions, be mindful of the guest list at this Kitchen Tea and the age of guests attending. Keep it classy and fun!
On the day of the Kitchen Tea, sit your beautiful bride-to-be down and, one by one, ask her the very same questions. See how many the couple answer the same!
Tip: Film the groom answering each question. You can then play each of his answers back on the TV after your bride has given her answer. This is a sweet way to tell the party whether or not she was correct.
RECIPES FOR A HAPPY MARRIAGE
★Click here for ‘Recipe Card’ inspiration★
This sweet game (that doubles as a keepsake for the bride-to-be!) can be played in one of two ways:
★Click here for ‘Recipe Card’ inspiration★
This sweet game (that doubles as a keepsake for the bride-to-be!) can be played in one of two ways:
- Set out a bunch of wooden spoons and permanent markers next to a printed/framed sign (saying something along the lines of “please write your recipe for a happy marriage on a wooden spoon!” - That's not very creative by me, but you get the gist!).
- Place a bunch of homemade ‘recipe cards’ (i.e. a page with the heading ‘recipe’ followed by empty lines) next to a box or chest. Once again, set up a sign letting guests know what to do (e.g. “please share your favourite recipe for a happy marriage”).
From here it’s up to guests to share their words of wisdom. At the end of the celebration, your bride-to-be can take home and read these ‘recipes’ in the lead-up to her special day!
WHAT AGE WAS THE BRIDE?
★Click here to view a selection of beautiful ‘What Age was the Bride?’ playing cards★
★Click here to view a selection of beautiful ‘What Age was the Bride?’ playing cards★
This is such a cute game! To get it ready, print off at least 5 photos of your bride-to-be from different points in her life. Be sure to write down her correct age in each photo and keep these little details in a safe place (you will need to know this information on the day of her Kitchen Tea!). Display these pictures as you wish (stick to the wall, frame each photo individually, frame photos as a collage, pin to a pinboard, etc.). When it comes time to play, ask each of the girls to guess what age they think the bride-to-be was in the photographs. The person who gets the most right wins!
Tip: This game can also be played with photographs from the bride and groom’s relationship. Guests can then guess the order these big (or small) events in their lives happened or where they were when the photo was taken. Alternatively, Share photos of baby husband and baby wife – guests have to try and guess which baby is which!
For 20 more kitchen tea game ideas, click here!
For 20 more kitchen tea game ideas, click here!
OTHER KITCHEN TEA IDEAS
MAKE YOUR BEST FRIEND FEEL EXTRA SPECIAL
This Kitchen Tea is all about celebrating your best friend – so making her feel special is a must!
There are so many ways you can do this; from playing her favourite music, decorating with her favourite flowers and/or creating thoughtful keepsakes, to serving her favourite foods and supplying her favourite drink/s. You could also surprise her by bringing a theme to life that she absolutely adores, or by organising an extra special group gift – something she’s always spoken about but never actually owned.
It’s the little things that really count – the thoughtful touches that will mean the world to her. So put your heads together and come up with ways to wow her. It doesn’t have to be expensive; it just has to be her!
DECORATE LIKE A PRO!
When it comes to decor, you can have so much fun! Whether you go for a themed celebration (as mentioned earlier), stick to an overall ‘Kitchen’ vibe, or simply place a few stunning bunches of flowers around; you really can’t go wrong! To help get you inspired, we’ve shared some of our favourite Kitchen Tea decoration ideas below:
ADD COLOUR WITH FLOWERS
when it comes to decorations, flowers are the BEST! Stunning, elegant and colourful, these beauties come in all shapes and sizes (and can be displayed in a range of fun ways, too!). For inspiration when it comes to floral decor, click here.
COUNT DOWN TO THE WEDDING
Using a blackboard or large sign, build excitement by highlighting how little time is left before the big day! E.g. ’14 days until she says ‘I Do’!’
FUNNY FACES
Help guests tell their glasses/champagne flutes apart in the best kind of way by printing off (at the smallest photo size possible) a range of funny (and nice) images of your bride-to-be.
Now for the fun part! Attach one photo per glass (that is, every single glass/champagne flute has it's own individual image of the bride attached to the stem or handle. A hole punch and some twine is an easy way to get this done).
Party-goers will have a great time checking out each other's images AND they won't forget which cup is theirs!
KITCHEN UTENSILS
Want the Kitchen Tea to be stunning, different and memorable? Why not use kitchen utensils as they've never been used before!
Fill teapots and teacups with flowers, use cheese graters as candle covers, place floating candles in wine glasses, fill the bowl of a mix master with floral bunches, etc.
Mixing a couple of these eccentric decorations into the day will not only create a fun vibe, but will also continue the Kitchen Tea theme no matter what your location may be (garden, lounge room, etc.).
TEA TIN VASES
For a unique twist on floral decor, why not dig out some old (washed!) tea tins and fill them with stunning blooms? This not only brings the ‘Kitchen Tea’ theme to life, but also makes for a fun talking point.
THE CARDBOARD GROOM
After some funny photo ops? A hilarious way to surprise the bride-to-be? Why not invest in a life-size cutout of the groom?!
WEDDING PHOTOS
Add a sweet, personal touch to the celebration by incorporating old wedding photos. Parents of the bride, parents of the groom, grandparents, etc. These could be framed or placed neatly in a photo album (with a special space at the beginning saved for your bride-to-be!).
If you're after some stunning eco-decor ideas for your Kitchen Tea celebration, click here.
when it comes to decorations, flowers are the BEST! Stunning, elegant and colourful, these beauties come in all shapes and sizes (and can be displayed in a range of fun ways, too!). For inspiration when it comes to floral decor, click here.
COUNT DOWN TO THE WEDDING
Using a blackboard or large sign, build excitement by highlighting how little time is left before the big day! E.g. ’14 days until she says ‘I Do’!’
FUNNY FACES
Help guests tell their glasses/champagne flutes apart in the best kind of way by printing off (at the smallest photo size possible) a range of funny (and nice) images of your bride-to-be.
Now for the fun part! Attach one photo per glass (that is, every single glass/champagne flute has it's own individual image of the bride attached to the stem or handle. A hole punch and some twine is an easy way to get this done).
Party-goers will have a great time checking out each other's images AND they won't forget which cup is theirs!
KITCHEN UTENSILS
Want the Kitchen Tea to be stunning, different and memorable? Why not use kitchen utensils as they've never been used before!
Fill teapots and teacups with flowers, use cheese graters as candle covers, place floating candles in wine glasses, fill the bowl of a mix master with floral bunches, etc.
Mixing a couple of these eccentric decorations into the day will not only create a fun vibe, but will also continue the Kitchen Tea theme no matter what your location may be (garden, lounge room, etc.).
TEA TIN VASES
For a unique twist on floral decor, why not dig out some old (washed!) tea tins and fill them with stunning blooms? This not only brings the ‘Kitchen Tea’ theme to life, but also makes for a fun talking point.
THE CARDBOARD GROOM
After some funny photo ops? A hilarious way to surprise the bride-to-be? Why not invest in a life-size cutout of the groom?!
WEDDING PHOTOS
Add a sweet, personal touch to the celebration by incorporating old wedding photos. Parents of the bride, parents of the groom, grandparents, etc. These could be framed or placed neatly in a photo album (with a special space at the beginning saved for your bride-to-be!).
If you're after some stunning eco-decor ideas for your Kitchen Tea celebration, click here.
KITCHEN TEA FAVOUR IDEAS
If you would like to give your guests a little something at the end of the celebration, check out the following ideas:
BAKED GOODS
Whether you whip up some delicious baked goods on your own, or order from one of the local bake houses, goodies such as cookies, cupcakes, mini cakes, chocolates and more make for beautiful (and mouth-watering!) favour ideas. Pack neatly in little bags or boxes for extra style.
COOKIE CUTTER SET
Coming in a range of shapes and sizes, you can get your hands on cookie cutter sets for just about any theme/occasion! A fun Kitchen Tea favour that’s also extremely handy in the home, cookie cutter sets are something your lucky guests can use again and again for many years to come!
Whether you whip up some delicious baked goods on your own, or order from one of the local bake houses, goodies such as cookies, cupcakes, mini cakes, chocolates and more make for beautiful (and mouth-watering!) favour ideas. Pack neatly in little bags or boxes for extra style.
COOKIE CUTTER SET
Coming in a range of shapes and sizes, you can get your hands on cookie cutter sets for just about any theme/occasion! A fun Kitchen Tea favour that’s also extremely handy in the home, cookie cutter sets are something your lucky guests can use again and again for many years to come!
EDIBLE PLANTS/SEEDS
★Click to view gorgeous seed pack favours★
Help guests create their own little kitchen garden by gifting either mini plant or seed pack favours! Thoughtful, eco-friendly, long-lasting and useful, these edible blooms make such a wonderful gift! Whether they are herbs, vegetables or fruits, party-goers are bound to be excited by the thought of adding to their indoor (or outdoor) gardens.
★Click to view gorgeous seed pack favours★
Help guests create their own little kitchen garden by gifting either mini plant or seed pack favours! Thoughtful, eco-friendly, long-lasting and useful, these edible blooms make such a wonderful gift! Whether they are herbs, vegetables or fruits, party-goers are bound to be excited by the thought of adding to their indoor (or outdoor) gardens.
ENGRAVED WOODEN SPOONS
★Click to view some gorgeous, personalized wooden spoons★
It’s safe to say that wooden spoons are a well-used kitchen utensil – which also makes them a fabulous favour idea! But rather than handing out plain wooden spoons that can be picked up at any cooking store, why not make things a little more special and have each spoon engraved? From quotes to sweet messages, there are many ways to bring the fun to your Kitchen Tea with these divine (and useful) favours!
★Click to view some gorgeous, personalized wooden spoons★
It’s safe to say that wooden spoons are a well-used kitchen utensil – which also makes them a fabulous favour idea! But rather than handing out plain wooden spoons that can be picked up at any cooking store, why not make things a little more special and have each spoon engraved? From quotes to sweet messages, there are many ways to bring the fun to your Kitchen Tea with these divine (and useful) favours!
FLOWER BOUQUETS
Typically the bride-to-be gives away her bouquet at the wedding, so this is a fun little twist on tradition that the girls will love. For a bouquet that lasts, we recommend using dried flowers rather than fresh.
TEA CUP SUCCULENTS
Head on down to your local op shop and find yourself some pretty tea cups! Fill each of these little beauties with succulents and soil; then finish off your favour by attaching a name tag to the handle. Living favours with a unique twist – everyone will love them!
Typically the bride-to-be gives away her bouquet at the wedding, so this is a fun little twist on tradition that the girls will love. For a bouquet that lasts, we recommend using dried flowers rather than fresh.
TEA CUP SUCCULENTS
Head on down to your local op shop and find yourself some pretty tea cups! Fill each of these little beauties with succulents and soil; then finish off your favour by attaching a name tag to the handle. Living favours with a unique twist – everyone will love them!
After more Kitchen Tea favour inspiration? Check out the following articles:
Party Bag Ideas - Delight Your Guests with Eco-gift
Bridal Shower Prize Ideas (these also work nicely as favours)
Bridal Shower Prize Ideas (these also work nicely as favours)
RELATED KITCHEN TEA ARTICLES
If you loved the Kitchen Tea ideas mentioned above, you may also enjoy the following articles! Blasting any confusion you may have had, the first will show you exactly what the differences are between a Kitchen Tea, Bridal Shower and Hen's Party (plus fun ways to combine two celebrations if your bride-to-be is after a little bit of everything!). The second gives you SO many wonderful Kitchen Tea activity ideas, the perfect way to keep your lovely guests entertained!
FINAL THOUGHTS ON PLANNING A KITCHEN TEA
Phew! That was a lot of info to digest, but hopefully it has answered your question about how to plan a kitchen tea (and in turn will make your planning that little bit easier and a lot more fun!). I'll keep adding to this article as more ideas come to mind. Likewise, if I've missed any inspiration you feel others would LOVE, please don't hesitate to share your thoughts via the comments section below or on our socials (AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest).
Cheers to a wonderful Kitchen Tea (planned to a tee!).
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
Cheers to a wonderful Kitchen Tea (planned to a tee!).
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE KITCHEN TEA PLANNING TIPS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
Imagine, for just one moment… you’re engaged (woohoo!), you’ve chosen your bridal party, and the wedding planning has well and truly begun. Everything is slowly coming together, with your special date fast approaching.
And whilst you’ve been busying yourself with a ridiculously long list of tasks that go hand-in-hand with organizing such a large event, those beautiful bridesmaids of yours have been secretly planning something too. A special celebration for your beautiful self! One last hurrah where you can celebrate your final days as a ‘single’ lady whilst surrounded by close friends and family.
Which begs the question… how do you want to spend your ‘final fling before the ring’?
Hen’s party, bridal shower or kitchen tea?
But to answer this question, you first need to know: what IS the difference between bridal shower and bachelorette party? Is a kitchen tea and bridal shower the same thing?
To help, we discuss the three different options below!
Imagine, for just one moment… you’re engaged (woohoo!), you’ve chosen your bridal party, and the wedding planning has well and truly begun. Everything is slowly coming together, with your special date fast approaching.
And whilst you’ve been busying yourself with a ridiculously long list of tasks that go hand-in-hand with organizing such a large event, those beautiful bridesmaids of yours have been secretly planning something too. A special celebration for your beautiful self! One last hurrah where you can celebrate your final days as a ‘single’ lady whilst surrounded by close friends and family.
Which begs the question… how do you want to spend your ‘final fling before the ring’?
Hen’s party, bridal shower or kitchen tea?
But to answer this question, you first need to know: what IS the difference between bridal shower and bachelorette party? Is a kitchen tea and bridal shower the same thing?
To help, we discuss the three different options below!
WHAT IS A KITCHEN TEA?
WHAT DO YOU DO AT A KITCHEN TEA?
Generally held during the day, a ‘Kitchen Tea’ is a fairly relaxed occasion whereby the bride’s closest friends and family (including the groom’s family) gather to share advice regarding the kitchen, enjoy some refreshments, dig in to some light meals and/or high tea, and play a couple of sweet games.
It is also commonplace for guests to bring along small gifts suitable for the kitchen (a way to help the happy couple set up their marital home).
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: KITCHEN TEA IDEAS - THE ULTIMATE GUIDE! <<<
WHO SCORES AN INVITE?
This type of celebration is perfect for those who wish to include the generations in their special day; with grandmothers, aunts, parents and younger family members all finding a Kitchen Tea welcoming and enjoyable.
And whilst this type of event was traditionally reserved for female friends and family only, the guest list is entirely up to the host (meaning close male friend/s and family members are more than welcome to take part in the day if you wish!).
WHERE DO YOU CELEBRATE?
When it comes to location, the beauty of hosting a Kitchen Tea is that there are an abundance of options! As long as the venue is somewhere you feel comfortable celebrating, giggling and telling stories, there is no reason you can’t celebrate there.
Whether this be a café, restaurant, house or even a picnic in the park/at the beach depends on your budget and the style of party you’re after.
FUN KITCHEN TEA GAME IDEA/S:
A sweet, fun and useful Kitchen Tea activity involves asking each guest to write down their favourite recipe prior to the event; bringing it along with them on the actual day.
When everyone has arrived, collect the recipes and stick them into a scrapbook. Leave this on a ‘guest book’ table alongside a Polaroid camera and some pens. This gives guests’ the chance to add photos of themselves with the bride-to-be, extra notes, etc. next to their recipe contribution.
Memories of the day will come flooding back every time the bride uses this book to create masterpieces in the kitchen!
You can find more fun kitchen tea game ideas by clicking here.
WHAT IS A BRIDAL SHOWER (A.K.A. WEDDING SHOWER)?
WHAT DO YOU DO AT A BRIDAL SHOWER?
Held during the day, a ‘Bridal Shower’ is basically a relaxed celebration with your closest friends and family members (including the groom’s family).
Similar to the Kitchen Tea, light meals or high tea is enjoyed, refreshments are served, a few fun games are played, and advice regarding marriage and/or the home is shared. Guests’ may also take this opportunity to ‘shower’ the bride-to-be with gifts (hence the name!). However, unlike the ‘Kitchen Tea’ where gifts are reserved for the kitchen only, offers received at a Bridal Shower can be used anywhere in the home.
WHO SCORES AN INVITE?
Once again, this is a fantastic way to celebrate with grandmothers, aunts, parents and younger family members. Traditionally, it is a female-only event; however as mentioned earlier, it is entirely up to you who makes the final guest list!
WHERE DO YOU CELEBRATE?
Whether Bridal Showers are held at the maid of honour’s house or a favourite café down the road, it’s bound to be a good time! As with the Kitchen tea, just make sure the chosen venue is somewhere you feel comfortable sharing stories, having a laugh and letting loose (just a little bit!).
FUN BRIDAL SHOWER GAME IDEA/S:
This is a favourite of ours because it’s a fun activity and beautiful keepsake all in one! To play, simply ask each guest to write down their favourite memory involving the bride-to-be onto a piece of paper. Collect each memory and, one-by-one, read them aloud to the group. The bride-to-be must then try and guess who each memory belongs to (she may even like to tell the back story if it’s a good one!).
After the shower, stick each of the memories into a scrapbook or photo album – a lovely souvenir from a wonderful day!
Click here to find more fun bridal shower games.
WHAT IS A HENS PARTY (A.K.A. BACHELORETTE PARTY)?
WHAT IS A HENS PARTY?
In complete contrast to the relaxed family affairs mentioned above, a ‘Hens Party’ is often quite the adventure! Generally beginning with some drinks, nibbles and ice-breaker games, the hens soon move on to an activity or two.
Depending on the bride-to-be and her wishes (it’s always a good idea to find out what type of celebration she’s after before planning anything!), these activities could be anything from a group dance class to a strip show.
By the time the pre-planned shenanigans have finished, expect guests to be well and truly in party mode! It’s not uncommon for celebrations to continue well into the small hours of the morning.
WHO SCORES AN INVITE?
As a hens party can be quite revealing at times, the bride-to-be must feel comfortable with those in attendance. Therefore, inviting close friends and, if the hen doesn’t get embarrassed easily, family, is a safe bet. This is definitely not the type of event for youngsters (and grandmothers may not appreciate an invite either!).
That being said, a hens party doesn’t have to be all cheek. Many brides are opting for classy celebrations these days – no peckers in site – making them more accommodating to other attendees!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: IMPORTANT INVITE DETAILS YOU CAN'T MISS! <<<
WHERE DO YOU CELEBRATE?
When it comes to location, hen’s parties differ greatly. Almost always they begin at a particular meeting point (such as a house, hotel room or restaurant). This provides time for guests to arrive, get to know one another, and have a few drinks/nibbles before anything too crazy kicks off.
Where to next depends on what has been planned. Travel to activities is quite common; however with so many mobile entertainment options available these days, hen parties at home (or at one particular venue) are becoming more and more popular.
FUN HEN PARTY GAME IDEA/S?
‘Before’ and ‘After’ photos make for some hilarious keepsakes of the night. Simply take a picture of each guest as they arrive (looking Ah-mazing!), holing a blackboard or sign that says ‘Before’. Take another photo as guests’ leave (this time holding a board or sign that says ‘After’).
Stick each guests’ before and after photo next to each other in a book and challenge your hen to NOT smile when she looks back at it!
For a huge list of hen party games (sweet, cheeky and everything in between!), click here.
BRIDAL SHOWER VS BACHELORETTE - WHAT NOW?
If you’re not sure what type of celebration your beautiful bride-to-be is after, definitely ask her! If a particular style jumps out at her, let the bridesmaids know as soon as possible and plan accordingly. This will not only mean that you can organize something truly special, but will also ensure that the guest of honour doesn’t end up getting whisked away on a hen’s party when what she really wanted was a bridal shower (or vice versa).
To help with your planning journey, check out the 'Party Planning Tips' page by clicking here!
To help with your planning journey, check out the 'Party Planning Tips' page by clicking here!
ARTCILES RELATED TO PRE-WEDDING CELEBRATIONS:
If you enjoyed learning about the difference between bridal shower and bachelorette party, you may also enjoy the following! The first article gives you a RIDICULOUS amount of info on Kitchen Tea Parties and how to host them. The second outlines so many wonderful ways to personalise the day; ensuring that your bride feels extra special! Click here to learn more.
CONCLUDING ON BRIDAL SHOWER VS BACHELORETTE PARTY EVENTS
Whether you end up organizing a casual high tea, a cheeky night on the town, or a little bit of both, it’s sure to be an event to remember! Why? Because when someone is surrounded by all of their incredible friends at the same time, fun and laughs WILL be had – no matter where you are or what you’re doing!
If you have anything else to add, please don't hesitate to share your thoughts in the comments section below (or via our socials: AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest).
Cheers to an AMAZING celebration, no matter the style!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
If you have anything else to add, please don't hesitate to share your thoughts in the comments section below (or via our socials: AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest).
Cheers to an AMAZING celebration, no matter the style!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THIS BRIDAL SHOWER VS BACHELORETTE PARTY INFO - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
Coming up with beautiful keepsakes for your best friend’s hen party or bridal shower is, in my opinion, just as important as planning the activities and games. Whether you organise a special box filled with notes, a hen guest book full of sweet messages, or a dress covered in signatures, this item will be something that is kept forever. It will be something that brings back the most amazing memories from one of the best days of her life! For some unforgettable hens party guest book ideas and keepsakes, see the inspiration below.
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO
Coming up with beautiful keepsakes for your best friend’s hen party or bridal shower is, in my opinion, just as important as planning the activities and games. Whether you organise a special box filled with notes, a hen guest book full of sweet messages, or a dress covered in signatures, this item will be something that is kept forever. It will be something that brings back the most amazing memories from one of the best days of her life! For some unforgettable hens party guest book ideas and keepsakes, see the inspiration below.
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO
AWESOME HEN PARTY GUEST BOOK IDEAS:
INFLATABLE BEAST
Perfect for that naughty hens party you’ve been planning; all you need is an inflatable pecker (the bigger the better!) and a permanent marker. Inflate before celebrations kick off and then, throughout the night, ask the girls to write their hen party guest book messages ALL over it! Following the party, she can deflate the beast and keep it somewhere special for those moments in life she needs a laugh or just wants to remember the day.
Handy Hint: If you’re heading out and about, make it a rule that your bride-to-be must take this beautiful giant with here EVERYWHERE she goes; meaning you could end up with hilarious well wishes written by complete strangers as well!
Perfect for that naughty hens party you’ve been planning; all you need is an inflatable pecker (the bigger the better!) and a permanent marker. Inflate before celebrations kick off and then, throughout the night, ask the girls to write their hen party guest book messages ALL over it! Following the party, she can deflate the beast and keep it somewhere special for those moments in life she needs a laugh or just wants to remember the day.
Handy Hint: If you’re heading out and about, make it a rule that your bride-to-be must take this beautiful giant with here EVERYWHERE she goes; meaning you could end up with hilarious well wishes written by complete strangers as well!
ENVELOPE GUEST BOOK
★Click here for ‘envelope guest book’ inspiration★
I love the idea of these! An envelope guest book is basically a book that has tiny envelopes strategically placed and glued down throughout (see examples here). Leave it open on a table alongside some pens, pencils and paper – guests can then go to town drawing pictures or writing sweet notes, marriage advice, anything really, before ‘posting’ it to your gorgeous hen.
★Click here for ‘envelope guest book’ inspiration★
I love the idea of these! An envelope guest book is basically a book that has tiny envelopes strategically placed and glued down throughout (see examples here). Leave it open on a table alongside some pens, pencils and paper – guests can then go to town drawing pictures or writing sweet notes, marriage advice, anything really, before ‘posting’ it to your gorgeous hen.
Handy Hint: Encourage guests to bring along items (such as small photographs, poems, ticket stubs from a concert they attended with the hen, etc.) that can be ‘posted’ in the book as well! These will make for a beautiful and welcome surprise when your bride-to-be goes through it following the celebration.
LOVE LETTERS
Set up a letterbox, some envelopes, pens, pencils, etc. on a table and ask guests to write your bride-to-be a letter. This could be some excited words about her upcoming marriage, marriage advice, a funny poem, jokes, funny stories from the past, date night ideas – you get the idea! Each guest will then place their letter inside an envelope, seal it and ‘post’ it.
Your bride-to-be can then read one or two letters per day in the lead up to her wedding OR read one per day until she runs out!
PERSONALISED HEN PARTY GUEST BOOK
★Click to view a range of unique hen guest book ideas★
There’s no better way to make the guest of honour feel special than by treating her to some custom made gifts; and a personalised hen guest book is one way to do just that! If this type of keepsake sounds like something your best friend would absolutely adore, Etsy is a great place to start your search. From photo books to drop box frames, there are so many unique options that you’re bound to find a personalised party guest book perfect for your occasion!
★Click to view a range of unique hen guest book ideas★
There’s no better way to make the guest of honour feel special than by treating her to some custom made gifts; and a personalised hen guest book is one way to do just that! If this type of keepsake sounds like something your best friend would absolutely adore, Etsy is a great place to start your search. From photo books to drop box frames, there are so many unique options that you’re bound to find a personalised party guest book perfect for your occasion!
SIGN THE FRAME
If you can find a beautiful, big frame that has a small area for a photograph, why not use this as your ‘guest book’? To pull this off, remove the glass from the frame and place somewhere safe (you will need it again later), fill the photo section with an image of your beautiful bride-to-be (she can switch this for a group shot once the hen party is done and dusted) and then put the frame back together. Place your glass-less frame on a table next to a jar full of pens.
When it comes time for the party, guests can then make their way to the table and write a message and/or sign their names on the matte (the card-like piece surrounding the image). After the party, put the glass back in its place and gift to your hen!
Click here for an example.
BUCKET LIST
★Click to view a printable ‘Bucket List’ sign★
This is such a fun idea that will give your hen SO many options when it comes to date nights/weekends full of adventure. To set up, grab yourself a ‘bucket’ (this can be a small tin bucket, an actual bucket, a jar, a wooden box... anything works!), some paper and some pens. Using a cute sign (click here for an example), ask guests to share their favourite things to do and/or favourite places to go. All of these notes will be placed into the ‘bucket' and gifted to your bride-to-be at the end of her celebration. The happy couple can then slowly make their way through their ‘bucket list’ together. This will not only provide HEAPS of fun and laughter in their first year of marriage, but will also give them the opportunity to experience new and exciting activities/holidays/etc. that they may not have thought of otherwise.
★Click to view a printable ‘Bucket List’ sign★
This is such a fun idea that will give your hen SO many options when it comes to date nights/weekends full of adventure. To set up, grab yourself a ‘bucket’ (this can be a small tin bucket, an actual bucket, a jar, a wooden box... anything works!), some paper and some pens. Using a cute sign (click here for an example), ask guests to share their favourite things to do and/or favourite places to go. All of these notes will be placed into the ‘bucket' and gifted to your bride-to-be at the end of her celebration. The happy couple can then slowly make their way through their ‘bucket list’ together. This will not only provide HEAPS of fun and laughter in their first year of marriage, but will also give them the opportunity to experience new and exciting activities/holidays/etc. that they may not have thought of otherwise.
Handy Hint: Make a rule that as your hen and her husband complete ideas, they must send a picture of themselves at that particular place to the person who suggested it (unless it was a cheeky R rated suggestion of course!).
DRESS TO IMPRESS
We did this for my sister’s hen’s party and it went down an absolute treat! First, I went shopping with her for a cheap dress that she liked, but would probably never wear again (these were the 2 rules we stuck to whilst browsing). I wanted her to look and feel amazing, but I also had a secret plan for this piece of clothing... hence the ‘won’t want to wear again’ rule.
On the day of her hen’s party, she turned up looking incredible in what we had picked. After a couple of drinks, the bridesmaids asked that everyone at the party sign the ‘hen night guest book’ before the night was over. Trick being that the ‘guest book’ was actually our beautiful bride-to-be’s dress!
From that moment on her girl’s took turns writing cute, fun and hilarious messages/well wishes all over her outfit using coloured permanent markers. The more drinks that were downed the funnier the notes became. We still can’t look at this piece of clothing without smiling and laughing, and it’s a great reminder of the fun had every time she looks in her cupboard!
KISS THE MISS GOODBYE
★Click to view a beautiful ‘Kiss the Miss’ printable★
One of the cuter hen party guest book ideas, this involves all of the ladies attending to show off their luscious lips! To make this work, you will need to request that each guest wear/bring their own lipstick. As the girls enter the party, you can then have them ‘kiss’ the canvas (or paper) and sign their name/write a short message next to the coloured lip print left behind! This canvas or print off (see examples here) can then be framed and gifted to the bride-to-be following her festivities.
★Click to view a beautiful ‘Kiss the Miss’ printable★
One of the cuter hen party guest book ideas, this involves all of the ladies attending to show off their luscious lips! To make this work, you will need to request that each guest wear/bring their own lipstick. As the girls enter the party, you can then have them ‘kiss’ the canvas (or paper) and sign their name/write a short message next to the coloured lip print left behind! This canvas or print off (see examples here) can then be framed and gifted to the bride-to-be following her festivities.
PHOTO BOOK GUEST BOOK
Rather than purchasing a hen do guest book with a custom cover and blank pages, why not create your own masterpiece using one of the online photo book tools?! With the ability to make your own cover AND include pictures throughout, this will end up being one truly loved memento!
Handy Hint: Ask each person on the guest list to send you a picture of themselves with the bride-to-be. You can then create the photo book so that every second page has ONE large image (that is, one of the pictures you’ve been sent) and it sits alongside one blank page. This means that guests can sign or write a message next to a photo of themselves with the bride-to-be – making the book that much more meaningful and special!
Have a guest who can’t attend the celebrations but still wants to be part of the fun? They can send through a photo of their written well-wishes which can then be inserted next to their photo image!
PINATA GUEST BOOK
Purchase or make a piñata in a shape that suits your celebration (that is, if you’re hosting a themed event, use a piñata that will compliment it. No theme at all? The first letter of her name would work perfectly, as would a pretty heart!). On the day of the party, set the piñata up on a table, alongside some pens, paper and a framed note that says something along the lines of:
“Leave me a note, joke or some marriage advice. On our one year wedding anniversary we’ll pop it open and read everything inside!”
Guests can then write what they wish on the paper provided and drop it in a hole at the top of the piñata (the part where the lollies usually go... maybe sneak some sweet treats in too for an extra surprise!). Patch it up after the party and gift to your bride-to-be and her fiancé.
PERSONALISED PUZZLE
Using a fun image of your bride-to-be, organise to have a custom puzzle sent to you via a local printing agency (or one of the bigger stores such as Harvey Norman/Officeworks).
On the day of the party, each guest can then sign and/or write a little message on the back of a puzzle piece. Once the event is over, place all of the pieces into a special box and pair with your bestie's favourite bottle of wine. Not only will this make for a beautiful gift, but it also gives your hen the chance to have a cute date night with her soon-to-be hubby - puzzle (of her face... he will LOVE this!), wine, food and messages from friends #bliss
Handy Hint: The bigger the puzzle pieces the more space the girls will have for messages. Consider this before deciding which puzzle size to order.
HANDY TIP
Guest books work best when party goers have the opportunity to write their piece at a time that suits them. Whether this be at the start, middle or end of the party is entirely up to each guest.
To make this process as easy as possible for them (and to ensure they know the guest book is there to be written in!), set up a special table complete with cute sign, pens, pencils and any other items needed. This will entice friends and family to check out the table and, in turn, encourage them to leave a special note! See below for printable guest book sign inspiration:
To make this process as easy as possible for them (and to ensure they know the guest book is there to be written in!), set up a special table complete with cute sign, pens, pencils and any other items needed. This will entice friends and family to check out the table and, in turn, encourage them to leave a special note! See below for printable guest book sign inspiration:
ARTICLES RELATED TO GUEST BOOK IDEAS:
If you enjoyed the hen weekend guest book inspiration above, we also think you'll love the following articles! The first outlines so many beautiful ways in which your best friend's celebration can be personalised. From bevvies through to decorations, click here to view the entire list! The second outlines great ways to cut costs (without sacrificing the beauty of your celebration) - click here for 13 wonderful ways to spend less when hosting your next event!
ENJOY PICKING THE PERFECT PARTY GUEST BOOK FOR YOUR HEN!
I hope the cheeky, classy and completely unique hen do guest book ideas in this article have inspired you! We absolutely LOVE hearing your feedback! If you have any comments on this particular article (or have a wicked guest book idea we've missed in the above list), please let us know via the comments section or social media (AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)!
Cheers to an incredible and memorable celebration!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
Cheers to an incredible and memorable celebration!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE HENS PARTY GUEST BOOK IDEAS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
Have a few bridal shower games up your sleeve but still in need of some sneaky prizes for the winner/s? Lucky for you there is definitely no shortage when it comes to bridal shower game prizes! From home cooked goodies to reusable drinking tools, this list will give you all the inspiration needed to treat those winning guests of yours!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
Have a few bridal shower games up your sleeve but still in need of some sneaky prizes for the winner/s? Lucky for you there is definitely no shortage when it comes to bridal shower game prizes! From home cooked goodies to reusable drinking tools, this list will give you all the inspiration needed to treat those winning guests of yours!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
THE ULTIMATE LIST OF BRIDAL SHOWER GAMES PRIZES
ALCOHOL
Mini bottles of wine or champagne make perfect prizes for bridal shower games - especially when you have a few winners (this happens when games require guests to break into teams and, therefore, win as a team). Buy in bulk (six packs or more) when on special and save yourself some money!
Mini bottles of wine or champagne make perfect prizes for bridal shower games - especially when you have a few winners (this happens when games require guests to break into teams and, therefore, win as a team). Buy in bulk (six packs or more) when on special and save yourself some money!
BAKED GOODS
★Click to view stunning message cookies perfect for bridal showers★
Whether you decide to cook up a storm or purchase from one of your local bakers, small baked goods packed neatly in little bags or boxes make for beautiful (and delicious) prize ideas! If you're hosting a themed bridal shower or party, this is also a great opportunity to get a little creative in the kitchen (you could bake biscuits or cupcakes to suit just about any theme/colour palette!).
★Click to view stunning message cookies perfect for bridal showers★
Whether you decide to cook up a storm or purchase from one of your local bakers, small baked goods packed neatly in little bags or boxes make for beautiful (and delicious) prize ideas! If you're hosting a themed bridal shower or party, this is also a great opportunity to get a little creative in the kitchen (you could bake biscuits or cupcakes to suit just about any theme/colour palette!).
CHOCOLATES
Easy and loved by many - boxed chocolates not only make for cheap bridal shower prizes, but are also bound to be received with mouth watering smiles! Favourites, Malteasers, M&Ms or something a little extra (Baci is one of my faves!), there are so many choices when it comes to boxed chocolatey goodness that you'll have as much fun shopping for them as your winner will devouring them!
BEESWAX WRAPS
★Click to view gorgeous beeswax wrap packs★
Beeswax Food wraps make for such fun wedding shower game prizes! Environmentally friendly, reasonably priced and full of funky colours/patterns, they can be used to cover salad bowls, sandwiches, leftover food, cut vegetables and more. Plus, it’s kind of like opening the door to a party whenever you go to the fridge – so many colours!
★Click to view gorgeous beeswax wrap packs★
Beeswax Food wraps make for such fun wedding shower game prizes! Environmentally friendly, reasonably priced and full of funky colours/patterns, they can be used to cover salad bowls, sandwiches, leftover food, cut vegetables and more. Plus, it’s kind of like opening the door to a party whenever you go to the fridge – so many colours!
COLOURFUL REUSABLE STRAWS
★Click to view a range of colourful reusable straws★
Many people love to sip their bevies from a straw, so why not provide them with the environmentally friendly tools to do so? Bright and fun, these reusable stainless steel straw packs make fantastic gifts and prizes that can be used over and over… and over again!
★Click to view a range of colourful reusable straws★
Many people love to sip their bevies from a straw, so why not provide them with the environmentally friendly tools to do so? Bright and fun, these reusable stainless steel straw packs make fantastic gifts and prizes that can be used over and over… and over again!
COOKIE CUTTER SET
Cookie cutter sets come in all shapes and sizes! From cartoons and animals through to shapes such as hearts, they are the perfect prize option if you're trying to keep everything in theme (because, let's be honest, there's a little something for everyone when it comes to these treats!). A fun prize that's also extremely handy on the home front, cookie cutter sets will be something the lucky winner can continue to use for many years to come!
ENGRAVED WOODEN SPOONS
★Click to view a range of engraved wooden spoons★
Wooden spoons are a must-have kitchen utensil, which means they would also make for fantastic bridal shower prize ideas! But rather than handing your beautiful winner a plain old wooden spoon, why not make things a little more exciting and present them with an engraved spoon instead?! From sweet messages to hilariously cheeky quotes, there are so many ways to bring the fun to the party with these gorgeous prizes!
★Click to view a range of engraved wooden spoons★
Wooden spoons are a must-have kitchen utensil, which means they would also make for fantastic bridal shower prize ideas! But rather than handing your beautiful winner a plain old wooden spoon, why not make things a little more exciting and present them with an engraved spoon instead?! From sweet messages to hilariously cheeky quotes, there are so many ways to bring the fun to the party with these gorgeous prizes!
TEALIGHT CANDLE HOLDERS
Candle holders make a beautiful addition to the home - so why not sue them as a prize option? From sleek, modern designs to rustic beauty, there are so many different types of holders on offer that you're bound to find one to suit the overall theme of your event!
VASES
Vases can be created out of anything. A pack of mini glass milk bottles minus the lids, unique jars that have been cleaned up, actual vases in a variety of colours and/or sizes. Alternatively, you could purchase one beautiful vase and have it displayed in a pretty box - the options for these game prizes for bridal showers are endless!
FLOWERS IN A VASE
Ok... so these were living! But they're just as beautiful in vases as they were in the garden! A great and inexpensive option for those who have yards full of colourful beauties; simply bunch them up, fasten with pretty ribbon and/or twine and place in small glass jars filled with water.
Ok... so these were living! But they're just as beautiful in vases as they were in the garden! A great and inexpensive option for those who have yards full of colourful beauties; simply bunch them up, fasten with pretty ribbon and/or twine and place in small glass jars filled with water.
MAGIC BEANS
Just the name 'magic beans' sounds fun! These cute bridal shower game prize ideas have images or words engraved on their seed, meaning as they grow they will show a special message! Such a beautiful and unique gift that's also lasting.
Just the name 'magic beans' sounds fun! These cute bridal shower game prize ideas have images or words engraved on their seed, meaning as they grow they will show a special message! Such a beautiful and unique gift that's also lasting.
PLANTABLE CARDS
★Click here to view a beautiful plantable heart pack★
I absolutely love the idea of plantable cards! They look beautiful and have an air of surprise about them (your guest won't know what the flower is until it grows!). Customise with a cute message (such as 'WINNER at Bec's Bridal Shower!') for extra fun.
★Click here to view a beautiful plantable heart pack★
I absolutely love the idea of plantable cards! They look beautiful and have an air of surprise about them (your guest won't know what the flower is until it grows!). Customise with a cute message (such as 'WINNER at Bec's Bridal Shower!') for extra fun.
PLANTS
★Click here to view beautiful indoor plants for sale★
Indoor pot plants that you've either potted up yourself or purchased from a store make wonderful prizes! They're beautiful, great for cleaning the air in your home AND will be a constant reminder of the fun had at your friend's bridal shower.
★Click here to view beautiful indoor plants for sale★
Indoor pot plants that you've either potted up yourself or purchased from a store make wonderful prizes! They're beautiful, great for cleaning the air in your home AND will be a constant reminder of the fun had at your friend's bridal shower.
As you don't have to buy for the whole guest list, you have the chance to purchase in a size that suits you (big, small, on sale - it's your choice!). You can also go for any style of your choice... will they be cute? Prickly? Edible? The choice is yours!
SEEDS
★Click here to buy stunning seed packs★
Thoughtful, long lasting and eco-friendly, seeds make such a great gift. Meaning they would also make fabulous bridal shower prizes! Whether they are herbs, flowers or vegetables, the recipient is bound to be beyond happy with their winnings.
★Click here to buy stunning seed packs★
Thoughtful, long lasting and eco-friendly, seeds make such a great gift. Meaning they would also make fabulous bridal shower prizes! Whether they are herbs, flowers or vegetables, the recipient is bound to be beyond happy with their winnings.
SEED BOMBS
★Click to view a range of unique seed bomb prize ideas★
So unique and so much fun! Seed bombs are gorgeous little balls made up of seeds, clay, soil and water that, when you’re ready to get your gardening on, will grow flowers or herbs wherever you throw them! For those who love a bit of DIY, seed bombs can be created at home (click here for instructions). If you don’t have the time to create them yourself, check out some awesome pre-made seed bombs here!
★Click to view a range of unique seed bomb prize ideas★
So unique and so much fun! Seed bombs are gorgeous little balls made up of seeds, clay, soil and water that, when you’re ready to get your gardening on, will grow flowers or herbs wherever you throw them! For those who love a bit of DIY, seed bombs can be created at home (click here for instructions). If you don’t have the time to create them yourself, check out some awesome pre-made seed bombs here!
SUCCULENTS
★Click here for a range of beautiful succulent prize options★
As with the above ‘living prize’ options, succulents are a wonderful keepsake that will just keep giving. Easy to look after and fantastic at bringing warmth and beauty to the home, who wouldn’t want to snatch up such an amazing prize?!
★Click here for a range of beautiful succulent prize options★
As with the above ‘living prize’ options, succulents are a wonderful keepsake that will just keep giving. Easy to look after and fantastic at bringing warmth and beauty to the home, who wouldn’t want to snatch up such an amazing prize?!
ADULT COLOURING BOOK
★Click to view a beautiful adult colouring book★
Adult colouring books are actually amazing! There is something about grabbing a pack of pencils and quietly filling in those gaps that’s really calming (plus the end picture looks GREAT because of your quality colouring in skills!). Package the book with some pretty pencils for a unique bridal shower prize idea that guests will love!
★Click to view a beautiful adult colouring book★
Adult colouring books are actually amazing! There is something about grabbing a pack of pencils and quietly filling in those gaps that’s really calming (plus the end picture looks GREAT because of your quality colouring in skills!). Package the book with some pretty pencils for a unique bridal shower prize idea that guests will love!
CARD GAMES
If you come across some reasonably priced, unique card games whilst out and about, consider grabbing a couple to use as prizes on the day of your event. Something that people can enjoy over dinner parties, with their children, etc. will be a welcome addition their gaming cupboard!
PUZZLES
As with card games (mentioned above), puzzles are another great option to stock up on should they be on sale. Not only do they make wonderful prizes for bridal shower, but also make great gifts should no-one snap them up (that, or you could keep them yourself - don't underestimate the hours of fun a puzzle can provide your family!).
... AND FOR THE BIG WINNERS!
COLD WEATHER CARE PACKAGE
Blankets, gloves, beanies, hot chocolate mix, fuzzy socks, hot water bottles, mugs, soup - there are so many fun filling ideas for cold weather care packages! Make the hamper as small or large as you like (budget depending, of course). You could even ditch the hamper idea all together and make these individual prizes!
KITCHEN PACK
A great prize for someone who has just moved into their new home, kitchen packs can be filled with anything from utensils (such as wooden spoons and egg flippers) to fun mugs, tea towels and aprons!
PAMPER HAMPER
Pamper products displayed nicely in a small basket or box makes for a beautiful prize that will leave the winner feeling relaxed, refreshed and revitalised! Give the gift of pamper with face masks, bath bombs, candles, natural body scrubs, soaps and more. A simple yet effective hamper that will go down a treat!
Blankets, gloves, beanies, hot chocolate mix, fuzzy socks, hot water bottles, mugs, soup - there are so many fun filling ideas for cold weather care packages! Make the hamper as small or large as you like (budget depending, of course). You could even ditch the hamper idea all together and make these individual prizes!
KITCHEN PACK
A great prize for someone who has just moved into their new home, kitchen packs can be filled with anything from utensils (such as wooden spoons and egg flippers) to fun mugs, tea towels and aprons!
PAMPER HAMPER
Pamper products displayed nicely in a small basket or box makes for a beautiful prize that will leave the winner feeling relaxed, refreshed and revitalised! Give the gift of pamper with face masks, bath bombs, candles, natural body scrubs, soaps and more. A simple yet effective hamper that will go down a treat!
PRIZE BASKETS
If your bridal shower games prizes are of similar value, why not place them all into a basket and allow guests to pick their own should they win? This means your lovely friends will get something they actually like and can't wait to take home!
TOKENS
Make the games a little more fun by handing out tokens to winners rather than prizes. Why? Because at the end of the day, each winner can then redeem a prize depending on the amount of tokens they have (just like picking out toys after winning tickets at TimeZone!).
To set this up, simply bunch prizes into different groups on a table. Place small signs in front of each bunch letting party-goers know how many tokens they're worth. The more tokens, the more elaborate the prize (for example, 1 token = small box of chocolates, 10 tokens = cold weather care package). Those with the most tokens get to pick first!
If your bridal shower games prizes are of similar value, why not place them all into a basket and allow guests to pick their own should they win? This means your lovely friends will get something they actually like and can't wait to take home!
TOKENS
Make the games a little more fun by handing out tokens to winners rather than prizes. Why? Because at the end of the day, each winner can then redeem a prize depending on the amount of tokens they have (just like picking out toys after winning tickets at TimeZone!).
To set this up, simply bunch prizes into different groups on a table. Place small signs in front of each bunch letting party-goers know how many tokens they're worth. The more tokens, the more elaborate the prize (for example, 1 token = small box of chocolates, 10 tokens = cold weather care package). Those with the most tokens get to pick first!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BRIDAL SHOWER GAME PRIZES:
If after reading the above ideas you're unsure of what to do, see below! We've answered some of the most frequently asked questions about bridal shower prizes below. Check them out and, if we haven't answered your particular questions (or you would like us to explain something in a little more detail), please don't hesitate to get in touch by clicking here!
WHAT ARE GOOD BRIDAL SHOWER PRIZES?
A good bridal shower prize is anything that your guest can eat, drink or use in their everyday life (see article content above for LOTS of ideas). You don't want to spend money on prizes that are either left at the party, or worse, thrown away as guests have no use for them.
Keep these tips in mind when spending your hard earned cash - it will result in better buys and happy prize winners!
HOW MUCH SHOULD BRIDAL SHOWER PRIZES COST?
This will completely depend on your budget. There is no need to spend a fortune on prizes (unless, of course, you want to. Then absolutely go for it!).
For those who want to keep costs down, small gifts such as plants/seedlings, chocolates, bunches of flowers, home-made goodies, mini champagnes and more will compliment your event nicely without breaking the bank.
WHAT ARE GOOD BRIDAL SHOWER PRIZES?
A good bridal shower prize is anything that your guest can eat, drink or use in their everyday life (see article content above for LOTS of ideas). You don't want to spend money on prizes that are either left at the party, or worse, thrown away as guests have no use for them.
Keep these tips in mind when spending your hard earned cash - it will result in better buys and happy prize winners!
HOW MUCH SHOULD BRIDAL SHOWER PRIZES COST?
This will completely depend on your budget. There is no need to spend a fortune on prizes (unless, of course, you want to. Then absolutely go for it!).
For those who want to keep costs down, small gifts such as plants/seedlings, chocolates, bunches of flowers, home-made goodies, mini champagnes and more will compliment your event nicely without breaking the bank.
ARTICLES RELATED TO THESE BRIDAL SHOWER PRIZES:
If you enjoyed these bridal shower game prizes, you may also want to check out the following articles. Both options offer ideas that could be used as favours, prizes or small gifts. Click here to read about hen party bag fillers, or here to learn more about eco gifts. Enjoy!
HAVE AN ABSOLUTE BALL HANDING OUT YOUR PRIZES FOR BRIDAL SHOWERS!
As you can see, the secret behind awesome bridal shower prize ideas is finding something that's useful and fun - without a huge price tag. With this little piece of info, it won't matter whether you use the beautiful prize options in this article or come up with some epic ideas of your own (please feel free to share!); your guests are going to feel like the luckiest party-people ever!
Cheers to a wonderful Bridal Shower with the BEST bridal shower prizes in town!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest).
Cheers to a wonderful Bridal Shower with the BEST bridal shower prizes in town!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest).
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE BRIDAL SHOWER PRIZE IDEAS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: ANNA NGUYEN
Everyone loves a wedding. Not just the event, but the planning and parties that come along with it. Hen parties are a traditional part of the bride and bridesmaids escaping for one last fling together. These memories last a lifetime. There are so many activities and places to go for a weekend adventure that can be mind-boggling. Should you stay close to home or jump a flight and find an awesome place to begin the fun? Here are a few ideas for hosting your hen party abroad or having it a little closer to home.
Everyone loves a wedding. Not just the event, but the planning and parties that come along with it. Hen parties are a traditional part of the bride and bridesmaids escaping for one last fling together. These memories last a lifetime. There are so many activities and places to go for a weekend adventure that can be mind-boggling. Should you stay close to home or jump a flight and find an awesome place to begin the fun? Here are a few ideas for hosting your hen party abroad or having it a little closer to home.
WHETHER IT'S A HEN PARTY ABROAD OR A PARTY IN YOUR LOUNGE... INCLUDE THE TEAM!
All friends of the bride want the Hens escapade to be exciting. Getting everyone to agree on the adventure may take some doing in the beginning.
When planning a hen party abroad, taking time away from home and travel expenses may be a deciding factor for many. Have everyone lay their cards on the table, so you all know what is doable. Don’t leave everything up to the bride-to-be. Make the final destination a team effort.
And speaking of the bride-to-be, she is going to feel like she is drowning in details and lack of time. As a bridesmaid, you can eliminate much of this pressure by scheduling times, events and places. If she’s overly stressed, you could even speak to the bride about hiring a wedding planner and celebrant to take the weight off of her shoulders (meaning they can take care of the wedding details while you concentrate on the fun hens!).
When planning a hen party abroad, taking time away from home and travel expenses may be a deciding factor for many. Have everyone lay their cards on the table, so you all know what is doable. Don’t leave everything up to the bride-to-be. Make the final destination a team effort.
And speaking of the bride-to-be, she is going to feel like she is drowning in details and lack of time. As a bridesmaid, you can eliminate much of this pressure by scheduling times, events and places. If she’s overly stressed, you could even speak to the bride about hiring a wedding planner and celebrant to take the weight off of her shoulders (meaning they can take care of the wedding details while you concentrate on the fun hens!).
INEXPENSIVE ABROAD DESTINATIONS
There are places in the world that are quite affordable and can guarantee a good time. Here are just a few hen party destinations abroad to choose from:
SPLIT, CROATIA
A place where few are familiar with, but it offers history, beautiful beaches, inexpensive dining and few tourists. Spring and Autumn are the time to get great deals on lodging.
SPLIT, CROATIA
A place where few are familiar with, but it offers history, beautiful beaches, inexpensive dining and few tourists. Spring and Autumn are the time to get great deals on lodging.
DUBLIN, IRELAND
Fantastic for being entertained and enjoying the affordable nightlife. Popular among hens, the group will not be disappointed.
ASIA
A great option for more affordable accommodation and a rich culture. It all depends on what the bride wants! If your group are food lovers, Asia is an excellent choice for a hen do abroad.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, USA
One of the best deals that many have found is visiting Las Vegas. There are several deals of free lodging, free meals and tons of casinos. However, you will need to start searching well in advance to get a good deal.
EXPLORING AUSTRALIA
If the problem of travelling abroad due to family, passports, time restrictions and so on make it impossible to head out for a far off hens weekend, consider the alternative of exploring the awesome places in Australia.
Many people do not realise the fantastic sights of their own country. Keeping your hens on the continent of Australia will provide a chance to explore what you have been missing. For example, a hot air balloon ride at sunrise that outlines the Yarra Valley in perfect serenity; allowing you to put life into perspective with your most important friends. Followed by a champagne breakfast and tour of one of the greatest wineries in the area, this is a reflective way to remember your hens.
You could even opt for a guesthouse that was once a church in the 1800s; an appropriate way of celebrating the upcoming event. Located in St. Albans, New South Wales, there will be plenty of relaxing with horseback riding, swimming or meeting new people.
Many people do not realise the fantastic sights of their own country. Keeping your hens on the continent of Australia will provide a chance to explore what you have been missing. For example, a hot air balloon ride at sunrise that outlines the Yarra Valley in perfect serenity; allowing you to put life into perspective with your most important friends. Followed by a champagne breakfast and tour of one of the greatest wineries in the area, this is a reflective way to remember your hens.
You could even opt for a guesthouse that was once a church in the 1800s; an appropriate way of celebrating the upcoming event. Located in St. Albans, New South Wales, there will be plenty of relaxing with horseback riding, swimming or meeting new people.
MAKE IT COSY & INTIMATE
Trips are great when everyone’s schedule coincides, and money is no object. But, what do you do when one or two of the bridesmaids cannot attend? There are other ways to have a hens gathering that is much cosier and more intimate. Just look at these ideas:
PLAN AN ADVENTURE IN YOUR AREA
The idea of a hens celebration is to spend time with your closest friends. Plan an overnight party with games, outrageous food and drink, and lots of pictures to post on social media.
PLAN AN ADVENTURE IN YOUR AREA
The idea of a hens celebration is to spend time with your closest friends. Plan an overnight party with games, outrageous food and drink, and lots of pictures to post on social media.
KEEP IT CLOSE
Keep your bride-to-be in the dark and travel to nearby clubs where the entertainment has been waiting for you. Drinks and dancers will be an evening to remember.
TRY SOMETHING NEW
Go on a picnic with lots of treats, wine and funny gifts. Go canoeing down the river, visit the zoo. It doesn’t matter what your agenda consists of as long as it brings you all close one last time before the wedding
ACTIVITIES GALORE
Keep the fun flowing non-stop by planning as many activities as possible. Make sure that everyone is ready to have the time of their life because there will be no stress allowed!
THE HENS NIGHT
It’s completely understandable that weddings can be stressful due to financial strains and pressure from both sides of the family. A hens is a special moment for the bride and her close loved ones to celebrate your journey so far. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly ideas to celebrate at home or want to splurge on a glamping weekend for your event, there are options for every bride!
RELATED ARTICLE:
If you enjoyed the hen party abroad ideas in this article, we think you may also enjoy these Glamping hens party ideas. Celebrating in luxury with incredible scenery - check out what it would be like to have a hens party from a glamping tent by clicking here!
AUTHOR BIO- ANNA NGUYEN
Anna Nguyen is from the Content Team at Oneflare! She's typically writing content with real-life insights, discussing life milestones from planning a wedding to renovating your first home.
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE TIPS ON WHETHER YOU SHOULD PLAN A HENS PARTY ABROAD OR LOCAL- YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
Unlike the typical party food table, a food bar (or station) tends to focus on one type of dish, treat or beverage only. And it's this focus that not only makes them incredibly fun to style, but also quite easy to tie into your overall event theme (hot chocolate bars pair perfectly with a winter wonderland theme, for example). On top of this, they also encourage guests to self-serve; meaning that although there is some prep involved before the celebration, you can sit back and enjoy your meal with friends once the party is underway.
With all of these positives, it's easy to see why food stations have become such a popular way to feed the hoards around the world. I, for one, LOVE the idea of these glorious tables; so much so that I decided to write an entire blog on them! If you're just like me (or you're curious and want to learn more), check out my favourite options below.
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
Unlike the typical party food table, a food bar (or station) tends to focus on one type of dish, treat or beverage only. And it's this focus that not only makes them incredibly fun to style, but also quite easy to tie into your overall event theme (hot chocolate bars pair perfectly with a winter wonderland theme, for example). On top of this, they also encourage guests to self-serve; meaning that although there is some prep involved before the celebration, you can sit back and enjoy your meal with friends once the party is underway.
With all of these positives, it's easy to see why food stations have become such a popular way to feed the hoards around the world. I, for one, LOVE the idea of these glorious tables; so much so that I decided to write an entire blog on them! If you're just like me (or you're curious and want to learn more), check out my favourite options below.
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
DIY BRUSCHETTA BAR
Homemade bruschetta is almost always on the menu when I’m hosting a party; not only because it’s quite easy to prep, but also because that deliciously crispy piece of bread can be garnished with a range of toppings (meaning it appeals to most, if not all, guests). And it’s this range of flavours and dressings that make a DIY Bruschetta Bar so much fun to put together (and even more fun for party-goers to devour)!
CREATING YOUR DIY BRUSCHETTA BAR
The first step in creating your mouth-watering set-up is deciding on a variety of spreads and toppings to serve. Traditionally, bruschetta is garnished with tomatoes and garlic; but don’t let this hold you back. Offer everything from cheeses, meats, avocados and salmon to hummus and salsa. Chop toppings into bite-size pieces and serve in individual bowls alongside mini tongs or other serving utensils. Fill glass jars with delicious spreads alongside spoons and knives. If you want to get a little fancy, label your jars and bowls so that guests know exactly what it is they’re sinking their teeth into.
Now it’s time to prepare the base. Toast thin slices of bread, infused with herbs and oil, either in the oven or on a pan. Once ready, serve immediately in baskets lined with tea-towels, or on plates that have been warmed in the oven.
From here it is up to your guests to get creative; experimenting with new and exciting toppings, or sticking to their good old fashioned favourites!
If you're considering a Bruschetta Bar at your next event, click here for more inspiration. With everything from meat/cheese pairing ideas to made-from-scratch pesto/spread recipes, these tips will have you WOWing guests with your cooking skills in no time!
CREATING YOUR DIY BRUSCHETTA BAR
The first step in creating your mouth-watering set-up is deciding on a variety of spreads and toppings to serve. Traditionally, bruschetta is garnished with tomatoes and garlic; but don’t let this hold you back. Offer everything from cheeses, meats, avocados and salmon to hummus and salsa. Chop toppings into bite-size pieces and serve in individual bowls alongside mini tongs or other serving utensils. Fill glass jars with delicious spreads alongside spoons and knives. If you want to get a little fancy, label your jars and bowls so that guests know exactly what it is they’re sinking their teeth into.
Now it’s time to prepare the base. Toast thin slices of bread, infused with herbs and oil, either in the oven or on a pan. Once ready, serve immediately in baskets lined with tea-towels, or on plates that have been warmed in the oven.
From here it is up to your guests to get creative; experimenting with new and exciting toppings, or sticking to their good old fashioned favourites!
If you're considering a Bruschetta Bar at your next event, click here for more inspiration. With everything from meat/cheese pairing ideas to made-from-scratch pesto/spread recipes, these tips will have you WOWing guests with your cooking skills in no time!
DIY COOKIE IN A JAR BAR
Looking for food bar ideas with a difference? This DIY Cookie in a Jar Bar, the brainchild of Krystyn from 'Really, Are You Serious?', will provide guests with the opportunity to not only create cookies from scratch, but also to test out wonderful mixtures they may not have otherwise tried. Even better? It also doubles as a favour following the event!
CREATING YOUR DIY COOKIE IN A JAR BAR
For starters, you will have to source enough large glass jars as there are guests. Rather than purchasing new, put the call-out on Facebook and collect friend's jars once they've emptied them of food. Soak to remove any labels and wash thoroughly.
Whilst your jars are drying, it's time to prep the ingredients. What you offer will depend greatly on the recipe you decide to follow, although most will require self-raising flour (wholemeal and gluten free options are great to have just in case), brown and/or white sugar, baking powder and baking soda (find some fantastic cookie in a jar recipes - and video tutorial - by clicking here). You should also grab lots of chocolate chips, M&Ms, sprinkles, nuts and anything else you can see making a great addition to your delicious desserts!
On the day of your celebration, place jars neatly in a basket at one end of the table, and ingredients in their own individual bowls (each with its own measuring cup, scoop or serving utensil). On a large blackboard, write down the base recipe for guests to follow (this is particularly important for the cookie part - any additions, such as chocolate chips, is entirely up to your friends!). Print off cooking instructions that can be taken home following the event. If you wish, you can also leave some cute tags, strings and ribbons on the table for people to decorate their final product with (if they don't want to keep it, it will make a beautiful gift for someone they love!).
From here, guests can enjoy creating their very own cookies. A very interactive activity that will involve lots of fun and laughter, but will also result in a beautiful take-home favour. For more DIY Cookie in a Jar Bar inspiration (+ set-up ideas), click here.
Handy Hints: If you don't like the idea of creating cookies from scratch, there is also the option of purchasing pre-made cookie mixes from your local Supermarket. Simply place the mix in your jars before guests arrive (as pictured below); party-goers can then add in any extras they like (such as peanuts) and take home to bake!
Not sold on the cookie idea? These 'build it yourself' style bars also work with hot chocolate (click here for video recipes), brownies, muffins and cakes. Pick your poison and go from there!
CREATING YOUR DIY COOKIE IN A JAR BAR
For starters, you will have to source enough large glass jars as there are guests. Rather than purchasing new, put the call-out on Facebook and collect friend's jars once they've emptied them of food. Soak to remove any labels and wash thoroughly.
Whilst your jars are drying, it's time to prep the ingredients. What you offer will depend greatly on the recipe you decide to follow, although most will require self-raising flour (wholemeal and gluten free options are great to have just in case), brown and/or white sugar, baking powder and baking soda (find some fantastic cookie in a jar recipes - and video tutorial - by clicking here). You should also grab lots of chocolate chips, M&Ms, sprinkles, nuts and anything else you can see making a great addition to your delicious desserts!
On the day of your celebration, place jars neatly in a basket at one end of the table, and ingredients in their own individual bowls (each with its own measuring cup, scoop or serving utensil). On a large blackboard, write down the base recipe for guests to follow (this is particularly important for the cookie part - any additions, such as chocolate chips, is entirely up to your friends!). Print off cooking instructions that can be taken home following the event. If you wish, you can also leave some cute tags, strings and ribbons on the table for people to decorate their final product with (if they don't want to keep it, it will make a beautiful gift for someone they love!).
From here, guests can enjoy creating their very own cookies. A very interactive activity that will involve lots of fun and laughter, but will also result in a beautiful take-home favour. For more DIY Cookie in a Jar Bar inspiration (+ set-up ideas), click here.
Handy Hints: If you don't like the idea of creating cookies from scratch, there is also the option of purchasing pre-made cookie mixes from your local Supermarket. Simply place the mix in your jars before guests arrive (as pictured below); party-goers can then add in any extras they like (such as peanuts) and take home to bake!
Not sold on the cookie idea? These 'build it yourself' style bars also work with hot chocolate (click here for video recipes), brownies, muffins and cakes. Pick your poison and go from there!
Credit: reallyareyouserious.com/diy-cookie-in-a-jar-bar-free-printable/
DIY HOT CHOCOLATE BAR
Is your event scheduled to take place in the middle of winter? Or perhaps your guest of honour loves nothing more than indulging in some chocolately goodness whenever possible? If you answered a resounding ‘yes’ to either of these questions, a DIY hot chocolate bar would be the ideal addition to your celebration!
CREATING YOUR DIY HOT CHOCOLATE BAR
This enticing drink station can be put together in three simple steps, starting with the milk. It’s important to offer a variety of milk (warmed), ensuring that all dietary requirements are catered for. Full cream, light and soy are all quite common choices, as is almond milk. Pour the options you decide to serve into separate jugs and place them neatly on your table; adding cute little labels or tags so that the contents of each jug are easily identifiable.
Next, it’s time to set up the cocoa itself. Offer a range of options (think along the lines of shaved Lindt chocolate, Milo, drinking chocolate, or your own mix of cocoa and sugar); placing a spoon nearby so that guests can easily scoop and stir it into their mugs.
And finally, no DIY Hot Chocolate Bar is complete without some sort of dipping treat! Set out little bowls filled with cookies, gingerbread men, marshmallows, mints, shaved chocolate, hot chocolate on a stick (click here for recipe) and, if your celebration happens to fall around Christmas (or Christmas in July), some cute candy-canes.
CREATING YOUR DIY HOT CHOCOLATE BAR
This enticing drink station can be put together in three simple steps, starting with the milk. It’s important to offer a variety of milk (warmed), ensuring that all dietary requirements are catered for. Full cream, light and soy are all quite common choices, as is almond milk. Pour the options you decide to serve into separate jugs and place them neatly on your table; adding cute little labels or tags so that the contents of each jug are easily identifiable.
Next, it’s time to set up the cocoa itself. Offer a range of options (think along the lines of shaved Lindt chocolate, Milo, drinking chocolate, or your own mix of cocoa and sugar); placing a spoon nearby so that guests can easily scoop and stir it into their mugs.
And finally, no DIY Hot Chocolate Bar is complete without some sort of dipping treat! Set out little bowls filled with cookies, gingerbread men, marshmallows, mints, shaved chocolate, hot chocolate on a stick (click here for recipe) and, if your celebration happens to fall around Christmas (or Christmas in July), some cute candy-canes.
Handy Hint: If you’d prefer, you can pre-make the hot chocolate in a saucepan; keeping it warm until guests are ready to enjoy it. Once your party-goers have filled their mugs with warming cocoa, direct them to the Hot Chocolate Station to stock up on their favourite dipping treats, toppings and more!
Hot chocolate alone not going to cut it for your event? Why not make it a 'Hot Beverage Station' instead? Alongside your sweet warming drinks area, offer a selection of different teas (green, black, herbal, etc.) and coffee. Place a kettle or hot water urn next to mugs, sugar and spoons and let your guests do the rest!
Hot chocolate alone not going to cut it for your event? Why not make it a 'Hot Beverage Station' instead? Alongside your sweet warming drinks area, offer a selection of different teas (green, black, herbal, etc.) and coffee. Place a kettle or hot water urn next to mugs, sugar and spoons and let your guests do the rest!
Credit: pinkfortitude.com/hot-chocolate-station
DIY MASHED POTATO BAR
After a food station that will cater to a range of dietary requirements, fill those stomachs AND taste great? You cannot go past a mashed (and/or baked) potato bar! Perfect as a side dish or appetiser, there's something about this dish, smeared with delicious toppings, that you just can't go past. So go ahead - treat those guests of yours (and yourself) to a spread so good everyone will be back for more!
CREATING YOUR DIY MASHED POTATO BAR
To pull off this food station, you need to offer guests a range of fun and exciting toppings. Whilst this may sound daunting, I assure you it's not. From mince to vegetables, herbs to shredded cheese, what you choose to serve here is only limited by what's available in your fridge!
Next, you need to focus on the potato. Search for fresh, home-made recipes online (here's a fabulous one to get you started) and cook up a storm. Dish up in small bowls or, as 'Adventures of Mel' suggests, in martini glasses.
From here guests can serve themselves; topping their mashed (or baked) potato with one or more of the wonderful options on offer.
Considering a Mashed Potato Bar for your event? Click here for plenty of inspiration! From mashed potato recipes to setting up the bar itself (see images below), these tips will have you creating a food station so beautiful guests won't want to ruin it by digging in (until the wonderful smell gets to them, of course!)
CREATING YOUR DIY MASHED POTATO BAR
To pull off this food station, you need to offer guests a range of fun and exciting toppings. Whilst this may sound daunting, I assure you it's not. From mince to vegetables, herbs to shredded cheese, what you choose to serve here is only limited by what's available in your fridge!
Next, you need to focus on the potato. Search for fresh, home-made recipes online (here's a fabulous one to get you started) and cook up a storm. Dish up in small bowls or, as 'Adventures of Mel' suggests, in martini glasses.
From here guests can serve themselves; topping their mashed (or baked) potato with one or more of the wonderful options on offer.
Considering a Mashed Potato Bar for your event? Click here for plenty of inspiration! From mashed potato recipes to setting up the bar itself (see images below), these tips will have you creating a food station so beautiful guests won't want to ruin it by digging in (until the wonderful smell gets to them, of course!)
Credit: adventuresofmel.com/the-ultimate-mashed-potato-bar
DIY POKE BOWL STATION
DIY Poke Bowl Station section written by Karina of Order-In
Poke bowls are not only on trend right now in the foodie world, but they are an excellent option for events. They are completely customizable for everyone’s individual tastes and dietary needs, and don’t require arduous set up. DIY Poke Bowl Stations are easy to create, but certainly don’t skimp on flavor.
CREATING YOUR DIY POKE BOWL STATION
The first step to building your DIY Poke Bowl Station is deciding on your selection of bases. This will act as the foundation to the bowl. You can keep it simple with white or brown rice, or opt for lighter alternatives of quinoa and leafy greens.
Next step in the poke bowl station should be your protein options. Traditionally, poke bowls are topped with salmon or tuna tossed with soy sauce presenting flavours similar to sushi, but there are endless options to suit your tastes. In addition to the fish, try out shiitake mushrooms or tofu for vegetarian and vegan options, chicken, crab or even fresh prawns. Line up your variation of protein preferences so guests can top up according to their own tastes.
Now for the fun part; dressing and garnishing! This is where your poke bowl will take on all the beautiful colours, textures and flavours they are known for. Dressings can be spicy, sweet, or salty (even all three)! Try out wasabi aioli, siracha mayo, chilli sauce, honey garlic soy or even miso. There are plenty of delectable dressings you can include and combine for creative flavour blends.
Add a couple of fresh garnishes to top off the dish and add some colourful crunch. Fresh fruit and veggies make excellent flavour additions, as well as fresh chilli, onion or pickles. Nuts and seeds can also act as additional protein to make sure everyone’s bowl is satisfying.
If you’re looking for a fun, healthy and flavourful way to enhance your hen’s party or bridal shower, a DIY Poke Bowl Station can be the perfect thing to place on your menu.
For more tips and tricks, check out how to make your own poke bowl here.
Poke bowls are not only on trend right now in the foodie world, but they are an excellent option for events. They are completely customizable for everyone’s individual tastes and dietary needs, and don’t require arduous set up. DIY Poke Bowl Stations are easy to create, but certainly don’t skimp on flavor.
CREATING YOUR DIY POKE BOWL STATION
The first step to building your DIY Poke Bowl Station is deciding on your selection of bases. This will act as the foundation to the bowl. You can keep it simple with white or brown rice, or opt for lighter alternatives of quinoa and leafy greens.
Next step in the poke bowl station should be your protein options. Traditionally, poke bowls are topped with salmon or tuna tossed with soy sauce presenting flavours similar to sushi, but there are endless options to suit your tastes. In addition to the fish, try out shiitake mushrooms or tofu for vegetarian and vegan options, chicken, crab or even fresh prawns. Line up your variation of protein preferences so guests can top up according to their own tastes.
Now for the fun part; dressing and garnishing! This is where your poke bowl will take on all the beautiful colours, textures and flavours they are known for. Dressings can be spicy, sweet, or salty (even all three)! Try out wasabi aioli, siracha mayo, chilli sauce, honey garlic soy or even miso. There are plenty of delectable dressings you can include and combine for creative flavour blends.
Add a couple of fresh garnishes to top off the dish and add some colourful crunch. Fresh fruit and veggies make excellent flavour additions, as well as fresh chilli, onion or pickles. Nuts and seeds can also act as additional protein to make sure everyone’s bowl is satisfying.
If you’re looking for a fun, healthy and flavourful way to enhance your hen’s party or bridal shower, a DIY Poke Bowl Station can be the perfect thing to place on your menu.
For more tips and tricks, check out how to make your own poke bowl here.
DIY POPCORN BAR
Fun and the perfect option for any bride-to-be with a sweet tooth, popcorn bars are all about cheeky flavours, unique toppings and sugar highs!
CREATING YOUR DIY POPCORN BAR
Setting up a Popcorn Bar is an enjoyable experience, as you're limited only by your imagination. To get started, source some bowls and/or jars (for displaying popcorn and toppings), serving tools (such as scoops and spoons), and recyclable popcorn boxes or bags. Set all of your items out on the table and arrange as desired.
CREATING YOUR DIY POPCORN BAR
Setting up a Popcorn Bar is an enjoyable experience, as you're limited only by your imagination. To get started, source some bowls and/or jars (for displaying popcorn and toppings), serving tools (such as scoops and spoons), and recyclable popcorn boxes or bags. Set all of your items out on the table and arrange as desired.
Now for the hero of the table. Will you serve delicious, fresh plain popcorn drizzled with butter and salt? Or show off your amazing cooking skills; delighting guests with a range of home-made, uniquely flavoured options (caramel popcorn, butter popcorn or even chocolate coated popcorn, for example - click here for some easy to make recipes)?
Whichever you decide, be sure to provide a range of topping options as well - with everything from butter and shaved chocolate to sprinkles and lollies being more than acceptable! Remember: the more variety you offer guests in this area, the more pairings you can experiment with. This will result in new favourite combos being made, most disgusting combos being avoided, and sweet-tooth foodies rejoicing!
For more Popcorn Bar ideas, tips and tricks (including recipes, topping ideas and table set-up inspiration), click here.
Whichever you decide, be sure to provide a range of topping options as well - with everything from butter and shaved chocolate to sprinkles and lollies being more than acceptable! Remember: the more variety you offer guests in this area, the more pairings you can experiment with. This will result in new favourite combos being made, most disgusting combos being avoided, and sweet-tooth foodies rejoicing!
For more Popcorn Bar ideas, tips and tricks (including recipes, topping ideas and table set-up inspiration), click here.
Credit: abrideonabudget.com/2018/05/diy-wedding-popcorn-bar.html
DIY SALAD STATION
Summer or winter, fresh or baked, salad always makes a fantastic side-dish! And with so many delicious vegetables to choose from, it's no wonder food stations featuring a mix of edible plants, meats, and pasta/rice products is a popular choice at parties year-round.
CREATING YOUR DIY SALAD STATION
The first step in creating your DIY Salad Station is preparing the vegetables. Carrots, lettuce, pumpkin, capsicum, onion, broccoli, mushrooms and corn are a great place to start. Chop or grate each option and place in individual bowls.
Next, it's time to turn your attention to the meats. Popular options include chicken, turkey, bacon, ham and seafood (tuna, salmon and shrimp, for example). These can either be sliced (when appropriate) and served in individual bowls, or placed neatly on a grazing platter.
Now, it's time to cater for the more adventurous eaters on your guest-list! Wholegrains (such as quinoa and rice), sesame seeds (and other seed varieties), dried fruit (such as cherries and raisins), beans, tofu, fresh fruits (such as pears, tomatoes, avocados and apples), nuts, herbs, noodles and dressings (mayonnaise or salsa, for instance) will all be a welcome addition for any food lover.
And finally, don't forget the staples of many a salad at home - boiled eggs and cheese!
CREATING YOUR DIY SALAD STATION
The first step in creating your DIY Salad Station is preparing the vegetables. Carrots, lettuce, pumpkin, capsicum, onion, broccoli, mushrooms and corn are a great place to start. Chop or grate each option and place in individual bowls.
Next, it's time to turn your attention to the meats. Popular options include chicken, turkey, bacon, ham and seafood (tuna, salmon and shrimp, for example). These can either be sliced (when appropriate) and served in individual bowls, or placed neatly on a grazing platter.
Now, it's time to cater for the more adventurous eaters on your guest-list! Wholegrains (such as quinoa and rice), sesame seeds (and other seed varieties), dried fruit (such as cherries and raisins), beans, tofu, fresh fruits (such as pears, tomatoes, avocados and apples), nuts, herbs, noodles and dressings (mayonnaise or salsa, for instance) will all be a welcome addition for any food lover.
And finally, don't forget the staples of many a salad at home - boiled eggs and cheese!
Handy Hint: Serve all of this alongside bread slices and rolls so that guests can decide between salad in a bowl or as part of a sandwich.
If you have the time, you can also add some baked (or mixed) salad options to the set-up. These include potato salad, coleslaw, warm roasted vegetables, noodle salad, pasta salad, greek salad and more.
If you have the time, you can also add some baked (or mixed) salad options to the set-up. These include potato salad, coleslaw, warm roasted vegetables, noodle salad, pasta salad, greek salad and more.
ARTICLE RELATED TO D.I.Y. FOOD BARS:
If you enjoyed the food bar inspiration above, we think the grazing table article below will also be a winner in your books! With easy step-by-step instructions, you will learn how to make three awesome grazing platters for your next celebration. Click here to read more!
If you enjoyed the food bar inspiration above, we think the grazing table article below will also be a winner in your books! With easy step-by-step instructions, you will learn how to make three awesome grazing platters for your next celebration. Click here to read more!
MAKING YOUR FOODIE FRIEND'S DREAMS COME TRUE!
Fun and easier to create than you think, your food bar or drink station is bound to be an absolute hit at your celebration - not only because it means guests' serve themselves (less work for you #winning), but also because they look AH-MAZING! If you have any tips yourself, or I've missed some food stations that absolutely NEED to be featured, please don't hesitate to let us know via the comment section below or on our socials.
Cheers to THE most mouth-watering event around!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)
Cheers to THE most mouth-watering event around!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE FOOD BAR IDEAS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
Celebrating your best friend’s upcoming nuptials is going to be a great time, whether you have a theme or not. But if your bestie happens to love dressing up for occasions (or you want to bring your whole group together in an easy and classy way), it could be fun to include this little extra in her day. From outrageous fancy dress to beautiful bold colours, there are bound to be hen themes that suit your bride-to-be’s personality perfectly. And if this is something you’re considering (or you're curious to see what options are out there), the following hen do themes will have you giggling, oohing and then settling on your favourite option in no time! Enjoy x
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
Celebrating your best friend’s upcoming nuptials is going to be a great time, whether you have a theme or not. But if your bestie happens to love dressing up for occasions (or you want to bring your whole group together in an easy and classy way), it could be fun to include this little extra in her day. From outrageous fancy dress to beautiful bold colours, there are bound to be hen themes that suit your bride-to-be’s personality perfectly. And if this is something you’re considering (or you're curious to see what options are out there), the following hen do themes will have you giggling, oohing and then settling on your favourite option in no time! Enjoy x
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
20+ HEN DO THEMES
BURLESQUE
★Click here for Burlesque themed photo booth props★
For a sultry, sexy occasion, you cannot go past the burlesque theme. Moody colours, corsets, feathers and stockings are only the beginning when it comes to this show-stopping celebration; a celebration that combines confidence and seduction in one incredibly fun little package. And with activities ranging from burlesque makeovers and dance classes through to dinner and a show (who wouldn't want to watch the professionals strut their stuff?!), this hen party will not only have everyone feeling their most fabulous, but will also be an experience not to be forgotten.
★Click here for Burlesque themed photo booth props★
For a sultry, sexy occasion, you cannot go past the burlesque theme. Moody colours, corsets, feathers and stockings are only the beginning when it comes to this show-stopping celebration; a celebration that combines confidence and seduction in one incredibly fun little package. And with activities ranging from burlesque makeovers and dance classes through to dinner and a show (who wouldn't want to watch the professionals strut their stuff?!), this hen party will not only have everyone feeling their most fabulous, but will also be an experience not to be forgotten.
MASQUERADE
★Click here for printable Masquerade Party signs★
For a sexy edge that is a little more subtle than the other themes in this section, masquerade will provide an air of mystery and adventure to your event; whereby guests can wear any outfit they like, as long as it includes some kind of intriguing mask. Paired with activities such as ballroom dancing (i.e. your very own masquerade ball!), blindfolded meals or surprise dining, and the thrill of the unknown will continue throughout the celebration - making it a memorable evening for all.
★Click here for printable Masquerade Party signs★
For a sexy edge that is a little more subtle than the other themes in this section, masquerade will provide an air of mystery and adventure to your event; whereby guests can wear any outfit they like, as long as it includes some kind of intriguing mask. Paired with activities such as ballroom dancing (i.e. your very own masquerade ball!), blindfolded meals or surprise dining, and the thrill of the unknown will continue throughout the celebration - making it a memorable evening for all.
NAUGHTY NURSES
Ask everyone to dress in their cheekiest nursing attire (short skirts, high heels, cute hats, etc.) and arrive ready to par-tay! This theme brings with it many fun options, such as drinking shots from syringes, trying to solve puzzles in a hospital themed escape room, hiring a 'doctor' stripper for some 18+ entertainment, and being waited upon by topless 'doctors' who love nothing more than doting on their fellow nurses. Combined with 'medicine' (i.e. alcoholic beverages of your choice!) and some good tunes, and this naughty night out will be a winner!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOSTING A MEDICAL THEMED PARTY FOR ADULTS <<<
Ask everyone to dress in their cheekiest nursing attire (short skirts, high heels, cute hats, etc.) and arrive ready to par-tay! This theme brings with it many fun options, such as drinking shots from syringes, trying to solve puzzles in a hospital themed escape room, hiring a 'doctor' stripper for some 18+ entertainment, and being waited upon by topless 'doctors' who love nothing more than doting on their fellow nurses. Combined with 'medicine' (i.e. alcoholic beverages of your choice!) and some good tunes, and this naughty night out will be a winner!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOSTING A MEDICAL THEMED PARTY FOR ADULTS <<<
BOHO BABES
Have guests show off their inner boho goddess! Flowing dresses, skirts and tops, gorgeous patterns, lots of colours, lace, flower crowns... there are so many beautiful options when it comes to this style. Combined with a chilled out picnic amongst nature, plus some cheeky drinks, and your boho babe of a bride will be in her element!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: DIY BOHO PICNIC <<<
VINTAGE VIXENS
Add some vintage glam into your celebration with a theme that brings past to present! From getting dolled up with vintage makeovers, or learning all the right moves at a vintage dance class, to taking in a movie at a boutique theatre or digging into delicious spreads at a specific-era bar/restaurant, there's no telling where this theme will take you! Have guests wear their favourite vintage glam outfit (borrowed from parents, purchased from op-shops, or found in their wardrobe) and let the good old fashioned fun begin!
Have guests show off their inner boho goddess! Flowing dresses, skirts and tops, gorgeous patterns, lots of colours, lace, flower crowns... there are so many beautiful options when it comes to this style. Combined with a chilled out picnic amongst nature, plus some cheeky drinks, and your boho babe of a bride will be in her element!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: DIY BOHO PICNIC <<<
VINTAGE VIXENS
Add some vintage glam into your celebration with a theme that brings past to present! From getting dolled up with vintage makeovers, or learning all the right moves at a vintage dance class, to taking in a movie at a boutique theatre or digging into delicious spreads at a specific-era bar/restaurant, there's no telling where this theme will take you! Have guests wear their favourite vintage glam outfit (borrowed from parents, purchased from op-shops, or found in their wardrobe) and let the good old fashioned fun begin!
ALL WHITE
★Click here for a range of stunning black & white printable party signs★
As the name suggests, this kind of party is all white. Ask guests to wear their favourite white attire (pants, skirts, tops, anything - as long as it's white!). You can decorate with beautiful white flowers, nibble on white chocolate muffins, and sip on Bailey's Flat White Martinis. Classy and fun, this theme is quite easy to pull off (for hosts and guests alike) and looks amazing. Just be careful of the red wine!
★Click here for a range of stunning black & white printable party signs★
As the name suggests, this kind of party is all white. Ask guests to wear their favourite white attire (pants, skirts, tops, anything - as long as it's white!). You can decorate with beautiful white flowers, nibble on white chocolate muffins, and sip on Bailey's Flat White Martinis. Classy and fun, this theme is quite easy to pull off (for hosts and guests alike) and looks amazing. Just be careful of the red wine!
Handy tip: Ask your bride-to-be to come in her favourite colour. The only bright dress will make her stand out in the crowd!
Handy hint: Organise a cheerleader style dance class to take part in at some point during the celebrations - then 'flash mob' what you've learnt when out and about later in the night!
CIRCUS
A circus theme brings so much colour and excitement that it will ooze fun party vibes from beginning to end! From circus characters (ringmaster, clown, aerialist, etc.) to clown makeup (dramatic eyes, red nose, red lips and rosy cheeks) or even a set dress code (bright colours and bows, for example), there are so many different ways to celebrate this theme. Add in an adult circus class for good measure and you'll have the most show-stopping hens of the season!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: ADULT CIRCUS PARTY <<<
COPS & ROBBERS
Your bride-to-be has been overrun by naughty robbers. She is now in their control and must do what they say to guarantee her freedom!
Set the scene for this theme by asking guests to arrive in all black. You can create 'robber masks' by cutting the shapes out of cardboard, painting them black and attaching them to sticks, ready for guests to wear when they arrive.
For your hen, organise a sexy police woman outfit that will have her looking and feeling amazing! Bring the whole theme together by serving food and drink such as donuts, milk, chocolate coins and convict cookies. Rather than a photo booth, set up an area for 'mug shots', leaving a blackboard for guests to write why they've been caught. Hire a private stripper dressed as a policeman for the ultimate surprise!
FAIRYTALES
Your best friend has met her prince, fallen in love and is about to get her 'happily ever after'. So why not celebrate her real-life fairytale with a corresponding theme?! From Beauty and the Beast to Frozen, there are so many magical ways to make your bride-to-be feel like the princess she is. Click here for all the inspiration you'll need to plan an enchanted event like no other!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOW TO HOST A FAIRYTALE HEN PARTY <<<
MEDICAL THEMED PARTY
If your bestie is in the medical field and you want to celebrate her amazingness, or maybe you just love the idea of playing 'doctors and nurses' for the night (oh behave!), a medical themed hens party is the way to go! From fun costume ideas and hilarious food/drink options through to themed activities and games, a medical party is guaranteed to be a great time!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOSTING A MEDICAL THEMED PARTY FOR ADULTS <<<
PIRATES
Get those scallywags ready - you have a night of rum drinking shenanigans on the high seas to prepare for!
Have everyone arrive in their best pirate attire (op shops are great for this theme, as you can find old clothes and chop them to suit - think jagged edges, bandanas, etc.!); and then add in some fun piratey activities (such as a river cruise, sailing in an actual pirate ship, seafood at a restaurant on the harbour, etc.).
Alternatively, turn your home into pirate HQ for the night, set up a rustic bar area, put together a photo booth (complete with treasure and pirate accessories for posing) and organise some activities (such as a comedy hypnotist - imagine the funny pirate acts your friends would take part in, a dance class, rum cocktail making class, or even a piratey stripper!).
JELLYBEAN PARTY
I absolutely love the idea behind a Jellybean party! To host, you will need to assign each guest one colour before the celebration. They will need this time to not only find an outfit in their particular colour, but also a drink! For example, if I were given red, I would turn up to the party in a red outfit, holding a bottle of red wine. The range of colours and drinks will create an incredibly fun atmosphere (and have you testing out beverages you probably didn't even know existed!).
Handy tip: Make your bride-to-be stand out by dressing her all in white OR ask her to come dressed in her favourite colour!
LITTLE BLACK DRESS
Black outfits (in particular, the LBD) are often a staple in many people's wardrobes; meaning this theme should be quite an easy one to pull off. It's also a great base for other hen night themes (such as 'black & bling', where guests wear some fancy jewellery with their outfit, and 'monochrome', whereby guests arrive wearing all black, whilst the bride-to-be wears all white!).
PRETTY PASTELS
Rather than having the entire party donning the exact same colour, broaden the theme a little by encouraging guests to wear their favourite pastel outfit. The mix of soft hues will not only look beautiful on the day, but will also give the girls a little more freedom when it comes to what they're wearing.
I absolutely love the idea behind a Jellybean party! To host, you will need to assign each guest one colour before the celebration. They will need this time to not only find an outfit in their particular colour, but also a drink! For example, if I were given red, I would turn up to the party in a red outfit, holding a bottle of red wine. The range of colours and drinks will create an incredibly fun atmosphere (and have you testing out beverages you probably didn't even know existed!).
Handy tip: Make your bride-to-be stand out by dressing her all in white OR ask her to come dressed in her favourite colour!
LITTLE BLACK DRESS
Black outfits (in particular, the LBD) are often a staple in many people's wardrobes; meaning this theme should be quite an easy one to pull off. It's also a great base for other hen night themes (such as 'black & bling', where guests wear some fancy jewellery with their outfit, and 'monochrome', whereby guests arrive wearing all black, whilst the bride-to-be wears all white!).
PRETTY PASTELS
Rather than having the entire party donning the exact same colour, broaden the theme a little by encouraging guests to wear their favourite pastel outfit. The mix of soft hues will not only look beautiful on the day, but will also give the girls a little more freedom when it comes to what they're wearing.
ANGELS & DEVILS
The ideal way to show both the cheeky and angelic side of your soon-to-be bride! Simply ask your guests to arrive in their favourite red and/or black outfit, and your hen to arrive in all white. You can then either purchase devil horns for everyone in your group from a local discount store, ask guests to borrow/buy their own set of horns, or get crafty and create them yourself (along with a beautiful halo or flower crown for your 'angel'!). Make the most out of this theme by planning naughty AND nice activities (such as flower crown making + a surprise stripper!).
The ideal way to show both the cheeky and angelic side of your soon-to-be bride! Simply ask your guests to arrive in their favourite red and/or black outfit, and your hen to arrive in all white. You can then either purchase devil horns for everyone in your group from a local discount store, ask guests to borrow/buy their own set of horns, or get crafty and create them yourself (along with a beautiful halo or flower crown for your 'angel'!). Make the most out of this theme by planning naughty AND nice activities (such as flower crown making + a surprise stripper!).
CHEERLEADERS
★Click here for a fun, personalised Cheerleader sign★
Ready? OK! The lead up to a wedding can be stressful; so make sure your bride-to-be has the BEST time possible by creating her own personal cheer squad! Donning skirts, tops, pom poms and an excitement for life, this theme not only provides fantastic photo ops, but also the opportunity to create hilarious cheers about your hen that you can randomly sing throughout the night!
★Click here for a fun, personalised Cheerleader sign★
Ready? OK! The lead up to a wedding can be stressful; so make sure your bride-to-be has the BEST time possible by creating her own personal cheer squad! Donning skirts, tops, pom poms and an excitement for life, this theme not only provides fantastic photo ops, but also the opportunity to create hilarious cheers about your hen that you can randomly sing throughout the night!
Handy hint: Organise a cheerleader style dance class to take part in at some point during the celebrations - then 'flash mob' what you've learnt when out and about later in the night!
CIRCUS
A circus theme brings so much colour and excitement that it will ooze fun party vibes from beginning to end! From circus characters (ringmaster, clown, aerialist, etc.) to clown makeup (dramatic eyes, red nose, red lips and rosy cheeks) or even a set dress code (bright colours and bows, for example), there are so many different ways to celebrate this theme. Add in an adult circus class for good measure and you'll have the most show-stopping hens of the season!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: ADULT CIRCUS PARTY <<<
COPS & ROBBERS
Your bride-to-be has been overrun by naughty robbers. She is now in their control and must do what they say to guarantee her freedom!
Set the scene for this theme by asking guests to arrive in all black. You can create 'robber masks' by cutting the shapes out of cardboard, painting them black and attaching them to sticks, ready for guests to wear when they arrive.
For your hen, organise a sexy police woman outfit that will have her looking and feeling amazing! Bring the whole theme together by serving food and drink such as donuts, milk, chocolate coins and convict cookies. Rather than a photo booth, set up an area for 'mug shots', leaving a blackboard for guests to write why they've been caught. Hire a private stripper dressed as a policeman for the ultimate surprise!
FAIRYTALES
Your best friend has met her prince, fallen in love and is about to get her 'happily ever after'. So why not celebrate her real-life fairytale with a corresponding theme?! From Beauty and the Beast to Frozen, there are so many magical ways to make your bride-to-be feel like the princess she is. Click here for all the inspiration you'll need to plan an enchanted event like no other!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOW TO HOST A FAIRYTALE HEN PARTY <<<
MEDICAL THEMED PARTY
If your bestie is in the medical field and you want to celebrate her amazingness, or maybe you just love the idea of playing 'doctors and nurses' for the night (oh behave!), a medical themed hens party is the way to go! From fun costume ideas and hilarious food/drink options through to themed activities and games, a medical party is guaranteed to be a great time!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOSTING A MEDICAL THEMED PARTY FOR ADULTS <<<
PIRATES
Get those scallywags ready - you have a night of rum drinking shenanigans on the high seas to prepare for!
Have everyone arrive in their best pirate attire (op shops are great for this theme, as you can find old clothes and chop them to suit - think jagged edges, bandanas, etc.!); and then add in some fun piratey activities (such as a river cruise, sailing in an actual pirate ship, seafood at a restaurant on the harbour, etc.).
Alternatively, turn your home into pirate HQ for the night, set up a rustic bar area, put together a photo booth (complete with treasure and pirate accessories for posing) and organise some activities (such as a comedy hypnotist - imagine the funny pirate acts your friends would take part in, a dance class, rum cocktail making class, or even a piratey stripper!).
RED CARPET/HOLLYWOOD
★Click here for printable VIP Guest Passes★
Does your best friend love getting dolled up for special occasions? Then it's time to host the most exclusive hen do in town! Dress to the nines (ballgowns, dramatic outfits, etc.), enjoy professional hair & makeup sessions, organise VIP access into the most beautiful bars and travel between activities in style (did someone say limo?!).
★Click here for printable VIP Guest Passes★
Does your best friend love getting dolled up for special occasions? Then it's time to host the most exclusive hen do in town! Dress to the nines (ballgowns, dramatic outfits, etc.), enjoy professional hair & makeup sessions, organise VIP access into the most beautiful bars and travel between activities in style (did someone say limo?!).
Want to keep the price down? Why not celebrate at home with your very own red carpet, delicious cocktails, delectable food and an activity or two that your hen would adore.
GRANNIES
There's no better way to celebrate growing old with the one you love, than by giving them a preview of what it will look like! Party like it's 1939 with this hilarious theme, where everything from hair rollers and walking sticks to night gowns and slippers is more than acceptable (some might even say fashionable?!).
Paired with activities such as barefoot bowls (so much fun!), Vintage dance classes (because these grannies have all the moves) and afternoon naps (just kidding); this celebration will go down as one of the most memorable!
LOOK-A-LIKES
She loves her partner, so why not surround her by him (or her)?! Have life-size masks made up of your best friend's better half, dress in outfits they're known for (my husband, for example, loves to rock a flanny!), and prepare for a day and night full of giggles and hilarious photos!
Handy tip: Whilst you can use one photo for every mask, it could also be fun to mix it up a bit. Track down as many different images of your bride-to-be's partner as you can - the more unique masks, the better!
OP SHOP PARTY
If you're after a hen party theme that brings the giggles in loads, this one is for you! Request that the girls find their outfit at an op shop; encouraging unique and outrageous get-ups by letting them know that there will be a variety of 'best dressed' prizes on the night (think along the lines of 'funniest outfit', 'most ridiculous outfit', 'sexiest outfit', etc.). From sleepwear to 80's ball gowns, there's no telling what your guests will choose to wear for the celebration. The end result (and photos) will be priceless!
Handy tip: Find an old-school wedding dress for your bride-to-be to wear as her costume!
RUBIK'S CUBE PARTY
A Rubik's Cube party is full of fun, laughter AND clothes swaps! To host, ask each guest to arrive in an outfit with at least one piece of clothing in each of the Rubik's Cube colours (white jumper, red pants, blue headband, orange socks, green singlet and yellow gloves, for example).
The aim during the party is then for guests to swap articles of clothing until they have 'solved' their cube (that is, they're wearing one colour only; all red for instance).
Made even more fun with cheeky swap rules, it's a game within a party that your guests and hen will love! For game rules and more information, click here.
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOW TO HOST A RUBIK'S CUBE PARTY <<<
There's no better way to celebrate growing old with the one you love, than by giving them a preview of what it will look like! Party like it's 1939 with this hilarious theme, where everything from hair rollers and walking sticks to night gowns and slippers is more than acceptable (some might even say fashionable?!).
Paired with activities such as barefoot bowls (so much fun!), Vintage dance classes (because these grannies have all the moves) and afternoon naps (just kidding); this celebration will go down as one of the most memorable!
LOOK-A-LIKES
She loves her partner, so why not surround her by him (or her)?! Have life-size masks made up of your best friend's better half, dress in outfits they're known for (my husband, for example, loves to rock a flanny!), and prepare for a day and night full of giggles and hilarious photos!
Handy tip: Whilst you can use one photo for every mask, it could also be fun to mix it up a bit. Track down as many different images of your bride-to-be's partner as you can - the more unique masks, the better!
OP SHOP PARTY
If you're after a hen party theme that brings the giggles in loads, this one is for you! Request that the girls find their outfit at an op shop; encouraging unique and outrageous get-ups by letting them know that there will be a variety of 'best dressed' prizes on the night (think along the lines of 'funniest outfit', 'most ridiculous outfit', 'sexiest outfit', etc.). From sleepwear to 80's ball gowns, there's no telling what your guests will choose to wear for the celebration. The end result (and photos) will be priceless!
Handy tip: Find an old-school wedding dress for your bride-to-be to wear as her costume!
RUBIK'S CUBE PARTY
A Rubik's Cube party is full of fun, laughter AND clothes swaps! To host, ask each guest to arrive in an outfit with at least one piece of clothing in each of the Rubik's Cube colours (white jumper, red pants, blue headband, orange socks, green singlet and yellow gloves, for example).
The aim during the party is then for guests to swap articles of clothing until they have 'solved' their cube (that is, they're wearing one colour only; all red for instance).
Made even more fun with cheeky swap rules, it's a game within a party that your guests and hen will love! For game rules and more information, click here.
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOW TO HOST A RUBIK'S CUBE PARTY <<<
BRIDAL BOOTCAMP
Thinking of hosting a healthy hens? Or perhaps you have some activities planned that require your guests to be in clothes that allow for lots of movement? Then bridal bootcamp is the way to go! Set a 'uniform' for the girls (such as black shorts and white t-shirts). With everyone wearing the same thing, it will bring the group together and make you feel like a team; a team that can take on whatever the day throws at you!
Handy hint: Bring some permanent markers so that you can write cheeky messages on each other's tops throughout the event - your bride and her friends can then keep the tops as mementos of the day.
HANDMADE HENS
Perfect for the creative girl in your life. Ask guests to hit up the local op shop to purchase a couple of items that will, by the time of the party, make up their outfit! The catch? They have to create something new from these items (e.g. they could turn a pair of pants into shorts, a top and a skirt into a dress, etc.).
The get-ups that people arrive in will be amazing, hilarious and everything in-between! Pair this theme with creative activities (such as cooking classes, creative workshops, jewellery making, etc.), and it will be a celebration limited only by your imagination!
SLEEPOVER
Sleepovers always bring back memories of my childhood. Times where we would stay up all night gossiping, eating sweet treats and watching our favourite movies. Fast forward to today, and it's still such a wonderful way to spend quality time with your closest friends (only now, there is also wine!).
Create the perfect atmosphere for such a theme by asking guests to wear their most loved PJs, dressing gowns and slippers. Serve lots of food (including popcorn!), sweets and drinks, have a selection of movies and board games at the ready, plus a couple of surprise activities (PJ dance class, karaoke, or even some topless waiters, for example).
Handy hint: If you want to go all out, you could hire a beautiful house in one of your best friend's favourite locations. Spend the weekend there as a group - sleepover/mini getaway!
TUXEDO
Ladies - it's time to SUIT UP! Sophisticated, flattering and incredibly fun, rocking a suit at your hen party could be the best choice you make. Hire some matching tuxedos for the group, get yourselves some funky bow ties, and hit the town looking like 'the absolute bosses you are'! Bring the whole theme together by adding in some James Bond style activities (such as hiring a beautiful house, travelling in style, hitting up the casino and drinking martinis), and basically enjoy living the high life (even if it is just for the day) with your closest pals!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: TUXEDO THEMED HEN'S PARTY <<<
Thinking of hosting a healthy hens? Or perhaps you have some activities planned that require your guests to be in clothes that allow for lots of movement? Then bridal bootcamp is the way to go! Set a 'uniform' for the girls (such as black shorts and white t-shirts). With everyone wearing the same thing, it will bring the group together and make you feel like a team; a team that can take on whatever the day throws at you!
Handy hint: Bring some permanent markers so that you can write cheeky messages on each other's tops throughout the event - your bride and her friends can then keep the tops as mementos of the day.
HANDMADE HENS
Perfect for the creative girl in your life. Ask guests to hit up the local op shop to purchase a couple of items that will, by the time of the party, make up their outfit! The catch? They have to create something new from these items (e.g. they could turn a pair of pants into shorts, a top and a skirt into a dress, etc.).
The get-ups that people arrive in will be amazing, hilarious and everything in-between! Pair this theme with creative activities (such as cooking classes, creative workshops, jewellery making, etc.), and it will be a celebration limited only by your imagination!
SLEEPOVER
Sleepovers always bring back memories of my childhood. Times where we would stay up all night gossiping, eating sweet treats and watching our favourite movies. Fast forward to today, and it's still such a wonderful way to spend quality time with your closest friends (only now, there is also wine!).
Create the perfect atmosphere for such a theme by asking guests to wear their most loved PJs, dressing gowns and slippers. Serve lots of food (including popcorn!), sweets and drinks, have a selection of movies and board games at the ready, plus a couple of surprise activities (PJ dance class, karaoke, or even some topless waiters, for example).
Handy hint: If you want to go all out, you could hire a beautiful house in one of your best friend's favourite locations. Spend the weekend there as a group - sleepover/mini getaway!
TUXEDO
Ladies - it's time to SUIT UP! Sophisticated, flattering and incredibly fun, rocking a suit at your hen party could be the best choice you make. Hire some matching tuxedos for the group, get yourselves some funky bow ties, and hit the town looking like 'the absolute bosses you are'! Bring the whole theme together by adding in some James Bond style activities (such as hiring a beautiful house, travelling in style, hitting up the casino and drinking martinis), and basically enjoy living the high life (even if it is just for the day) with your closest pals!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: TUXEDO THEMED HEN'S PARTY <<<
ARTICLE RELATED TO HEN DO THEMES:
Now that you've nailed the theme part of your event, it's time to plan some wicked games! From sweet to cheeky, the following article has a little something for everyone! Click here to check out the list of over 40 ideas now!
Now that you've nailed the theme part of your event, it's time to plan some wicked games! From sweet to cheeky, the following article has a little something for everyone! Click here to check out the list of over 40 ideas now!
HAVE AN AMAZING TIME WITH YOUR HEN PARTY THEMES!
I hope this list has provided you with LOTS of hen party theme ideas, making your planning that much easier. I'm constantly on the lookout for fun, new, interesting and unique options, and every time I come across a new one I'll update this article. So, if you have any you would like to share, please do so via the comments section below or social media! (AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest).
Cheers to the best dressed party in town!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
Cheers to the best dressed party in town!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE AWESOME HEN DO THEMES - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: SOPHIE ANDERSEN
Organising a party can be tough; especially if you’re throwing one for your best friend who is getting married soon, or if you’re the one who is getting married and would like to keep everything under control. From ordering food and drinks and picking out the perfect party outfits, to decorating the house and planning out the activities – when you plan a hen party it takes a lot of time and effort to put together; and you’ll probably need some help if you’re going to organise the whole thing on your own.
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
Organising a party can be tough; especially if you’re throwing one for your best friend who is getting married soon, or if you’re the one who is getting married and would like to keep everything under control. From ordering food and drinks and picking out the perfect party outfits, to decorating the house and planning out the activities – when you plan a hen party it takes a lot of time and effort to put together; and you’ll probably need some help if you’re going to organise the whole thing on your own.
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
WHAT IS A HEN PARTY & HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM A BRIDAL SHOWER?
First, let’s start by explaining the notion of hen parties and when/why they have become so popular.
The beginning of hen parties can be traced back to the 1800s, but it wasn’t until the 1960s that the phrase started to gain more prominence and began to have a context (many experts put this down to the fact that the 1960s was a period of sexual revolution). So it’s safe to say that hen parties are a pretty recent phenomenon.
Similar to bridal showers, hen parties are all about the bride-to-be and her friends having fun and celebrating the fact that she’s getting married. However, bridal showers tend to be more classy, PG-rated and based upon gifting the guest of honour items to help set up her marital home. Hen parties, on the other hand, are more on the wild side; including all kinds of fun activities for the most memorable night with the girls.
While bridal showers are usually cheaper to organise, with the bride’s family often paying for the event; hen parties are all about joining forces with the girls in order to organise the party and have a blast. Also, when it comes to a hen party, there’s no need to bring any presents for the bride. Rather, hens are often gifted goodie bags to remind them of this fun-filled night.
The beginning of hen parties can be traced back to the 1800s, but it wasn’t until the 1960s that the phrase started to gain more prominence and began to have a context (many experts put this down to the fact that the 1960s was a period of sexual revolution). So it’s safe to say that hen parties are a pretty recent phenomenon.
Similar to bridal showers, hen parties are all about the bride-to-be and her friends having fun and celebrating the fact that she’s getting married. However, bridal showers tend to be more classy, PG-rated and based upon gifting the guest of honour items to help set up her marital home. Hen parties, on the other hand, are more on the wild side; including all kinds of fun activities for the most memorable night with the girls.
While bridal showers are usually cheaper to organise, with the bride’s family often paying for the event; hen parties are all about joining forces with the girls in order to organise the party and have a blast. Also, when it comes to a hen party, there’s no need to bring any presents for the bride. Rather, hens are often gifted goodie bags to remind them of this fun-filled night.
ORGANISING YOUR HEN PARTY
★Click here to view a range of personalised hen party accessories★
There are a number of ways you can organise a hen party.
There are a number of ways you can organise a hen party.
You could pick a destination you’ll all go to, you can throw a party out in the open, you can organise an experience you'll all participate in, or you can throw it at your own home to keep costs down (and then spend that extra money elsewhere, say, accessories!).
Sashes, tees, and veils are all accessories that usually accompany a hen party, alongside reusable plates and cups. You can also provide photo booth props and take some of the most hilarious photographs of you and your friends.
Sashes, tees, and veils are all accessories that usually accompany a hen party, alongside reusable plates and cups. You can also provide photo booth props and take some of the most hilarious photographs of you and your friends.
If you’ve decided to throw your hen party at home, there are a wide range of activities you can go for to ensure everyone has a great time. A pamper party could be just what you need after weeks of planning it out, while a makeover night will make you feel glamorous. You can also play some popular hen party games, such as 'Never Have I Ever', and learn the naughtiest, most hilarious facts about your friends that they probably wouldn’t admit to when sober!
If you do decide to celebrate at home, you’ll need to consider all the major and minor details, including food and drinks. You can make your own hors d’oeuvre by using easy canapés and cocktail recipes (many of which can be found online).
If you do decide to celebrate at home, you’ll need to consider all the major and minor details, including food and drinks. You can make your own hors d’oeuvre by using easy canapés and cocktail recipes (many of which can be found online).
But if you would prefer to avoid unnecessary stress, you could also hire an event catering company. This second option will not only deliver great-tasting food and make sure it is presented in an appealing way, but will also take a significant amount of work off your chest; saving you time (and nerves!) and allowing you to focus on other aspects of the party.
HEN PARTY TRENDS
Hen parties are becoming more and more popular, and different brides-to-be want different things for their celebrations; so we thought we’d throw in a couple of hen party trends that we can anticipate in the coming year.
Themed hen parties are gaining a significant amount of attention – from Bollywood and burlesque nights to roller disco, these hen parties are sure to be remembered.
We’re also seeing a rise in getaways, with Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Magaluf being some of the top hen party destinations in the world.
Hiring a buff butler for a hen party is a sure way to spice up the girls’ night, while a gin masterclass or a day of wine tasting is sure to teach you how to appreciate your drinks and widen your drinking horizon (getting tipsy is an added bonus!).
Themed hen parties are gaining a significant amount of attention – from Bollywood and burlesque nights to roller disco, these hen parties are sure to be remembered.
We’re also seeing a rise in getaways, with Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Magaluf being some of the top hen party destinations in the world.
Hiring a buff butler for a hen party is a sure way to spice up the girls’ night, while a gin masterclass or a day of wine tasting is sure to teach you how to appreciate your drinks and widen your drinking horizon (getting tipsy is an added bonus!).
MAKE IT COUNT
Now, all you’ve got to do is roll up your sleeves and start writing down all you want and need for your hen party. After all, you’ve only got one shot, so make it fun, make it memorable, and definitely make it count!
ARTICLE RELATED TO HEN PARTY PLANNING:
Now that you've got the bachelorette party planning under control, it's time to focus on some fun things - such as games! From cheeky to classy, the following article has so many fun, unique and hilarious options to choose from (and best of all, they're all free to play!). To check out the list, click here.
Now that you've got the bachelorette party planning under control, it's time to focus on some fun things - such as games! From cheeky to classy, the following article has so many fun, unique and hilarious options to choose from (and best of all, they're all free to play!). To check out the list, click here.
AUTHOR BIO - SOPHIE ANDERSEN
BLOGGER, ENVIRONMENTALIST & PASSIONATE GOURMAND
Sophie is a blogger from Australia. She spends a lot of time in the kitchen, exploring new recipes. She also enjoys decorating food and home. At the end of the day, she loves to sit down, write and share her everyday experience.
Sophie is a blogger from Australia. She spends a lot of time in the kitchen, exploring new recipes. She also enjoys decorating food and home. At the end of the day, she loves to sit down, write and share her everyday experience.
Website: www.clippings.me/missophie
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE HEN PARTY PLANNING TIPS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
Flowers at events: they’re beautiful, colourful, fun, eco-friendly, and possibly best of all, will provide your home with added warmth and ‘sparkle’ for days, weeks or even years (when potted) to come! But as stunning as they are, how exactly do you create that wow factor with floral arrangements? How do you create something so beautiful and unique that your guests are in awe from the moment they arrive?
With some help from our friends at 'Flowers for Everyone’, we answer these questions and more. So whether you’re after some subtle touches in the background of your celebration, a statement in the centrepiece of your main table or seasonal blooms that will compliment your event perfectly, this article is a must read for you!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
Flowers at events: they’re beautiful, colourful, fun, eco-friendly, and possibly best of all, will provide your home with added warmth and ‘sparkle’ for days, weeks or even years (when potted) to come! But as stunning as they are, how exactly do you create that wow factor with floral arrangements? How do you create something so beautiful and unique that your guests are in awe from the moment they arrive?
With some help from our friends at 'Flowers for Everyone’, we answer these questions and more. So whether you’re after some subtle touches in the background of your celebration, a statement in the centrepiece of your main table or seasonal blooms that will compliment your event perfectly, this article is a must read for you!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
COLOURS ARE EVERYTHING
Before kicking things off, there is one important tip worth mentioning. To guarantee a beautiful backdrop for your event, you need to decide on (and stick to) a colour palette.
But what does this have to do with flowers?
Well, it means that your job isn't just about choosing the type of bloom to decorate your venue with; it's also thinking about that particular flower's colour. For example, you're hosting a circus party with a palette of light blue, red, white and bright yellow. Everything from the food and drink to the rest of your decor is in this theme; meaning flowers of the same colour will be a welcome addition. BUT, if you were to use pink flowers at your circus party instead (when everything else is blue, red, white and yellow), it wouldn't have the same effect.
A small detail that makes a big difference - when everything used to set the scene at your event compliments each other, you really can't go wrong!
But what does this have to do with flowers?
Well, it means that your job isn't just about choosing the type of bloom to decorate your venue with; it's also thinking about that particular flower's colour. For example, you're hosting a circus party with a palette of light blue, red, white and bright yellow. Everything from the food and drink to the rest of your decor is in this theme; meaning flowers of the same colour will be a welcome addition. BUT, if you were to use pink flowers at your circus party instead (when everything else is blue, red, white and yellow), it wouldn't have the same effect.
A small detail that makes a big difference - when everything used to set the scene at your event compliments each other, you really can't go wrong!
DECORATING YOUR EVENT WITH FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS
FLOWERS IN A VASE
Adding fun and colour to your party is made easy with vases! See below for some unique ways to include these handy items in your decor:
Adding fun and colour to your party is made easy with vases! See below for some unique ways to include these handy items in your decor:
COLOURED VASES - FUN & FULL OF PERSONALITY
★Click here to view some gorgeous reclaimed glass vases for inspiration★
If you happen to have a vase in one of your theme colours, don't let it go to waste! These are great for adding extra fun and personality to your celebration; and when filled with a stunning assortment, also work perfectly as a statement piece.
★Click here to view some gorgeous reclaimed glass vases for inspiration★
If you happen to have a vase in one of your theme colours, don't let it go to waste! These are great for adding extra fun and personality to your celebration; and when filled with a stunning assortment, also work perfectly as a statement piece.
Tip: Use your coloured vases in the middle of your dining table, as a beautiful feature on your dessert and/or gift table, or as a 'welcome to the party' near the entrance to your venue.
OUR PICK: Add some sustainable colour to your occasion with gorgeous blue reclaimed glass vases! #love! For product details and pictures, click here.
GLASS VASES - ELEGANT & VERSATILE
Clear glass vases can be used in so many ways! Fill them with greenery and flowers that suit your party palette, cluster them together in mismatched heights, shapes and/or sizes, dress them up with ribbons, attach them to walls or even hang them from string (more about this in the next point).
Tip: If you don't have the cash to splash on beautiful clear glass vases, save the glass jars from your cupboard instead. After a good clean they can be filled with beautiful blooms and provide a very similar look for less. That being said, if you'd rather have actual vases on display, visit your local op shop where there is almost always a selection to choose from.
Clear glass vases can be used in so many ways! Fill them with greenery and flowers that suit your party palette, cluster them together in mismatched heights, shapes and/or sizes, dress them up with ribbons, attach them to walls or even hang them from string (more about this in the next point).
Tip: If you don't have the cash to splash on beautiful clear glass vases, save the glass jars from your cupboard instead. After a good clean they can be filled with beautiful blooms and provide a very similar look for less. That being said, if you'd rather have actual vases on display, visit your local op shop where there is almost always a selection to choose from.
HANGING VASES - MAKE A UNIQUE STATEMENT
★Click here to view a variety of hanging vases★
Events are the perfect time to have a bit fun with decorations - creating new and unique ways to display everyday items. And what better way to change up your usual flower decor than by hanging your vases from branches, walls or ceilings?!
★Click here to view a variety of hanging vases★
Events are the perfect time to have a bit fun with decorations - creating new and unique ways to display everyday items. And what better way to change up your usual flower decor than by hanging your vases from branches, walls or ceilings?!
As you can see in the picture below, there are a number of ways to do this. Whether you hang small vases filled with one or two flowers, baskets (in a variety of sizes) filled with beautiful arrangements, miniature terrariums, or the totally on trend Macrame plant hangers, they are bound to become one of your most impressive style choices at your celebration.
Tip: Large hooks can be used to hold up branches indoors. Nail them into your roof or wall (making sure they are level) and then slide your branch or pole into place as you do when hanging curtain rods. From here you can get creative - use twine or thick string to hang small jars, vases, baskets or even individual flowers... and if that doesn't work, you can always hang your vases from string lights. Once this is done, step back and admire your incredibly cool handy work!
WOODEN VASES - RUSTIC BEAUTY
”>★Click here to check out the beautiful wooden vases pictured below★
Wooden vases, such as the set pictured below, will instantly grab guests' attention with their beautifully unique take on flower display. For a rustic yet sophisticated touch to any event, simply fill with greenery and blooms to match your overall palette - it's that easy!
”>★Click here to check out the beautiful wooden vases pictured below★
Wooden vases, such as the set pictured below, will instantly grab guests' attention with their beautifully unique take on flower display. For a rustic yet sophisticated touch to any event, simply fill with greenery and blooms to match your overall palette - it's that easy!
Tip: These stunning vases also make the best home decor. This means you can purchase them for your event, display them in your home, and then use them at future events in need of some rustic magic. Alternatively, gift them to your bride-to-be following her special celebration; they will become a beautiful reminder of a day well spent with friends and family.
DISPLAY TIPS: FLOWERS IN A VASE
As you can see, there are a number of different ways to include vases in your event. If you're still stuck for display options, consider the following for inspiration:
As you can see, there are a number of different ways to include vases in your event. If you're still stuck for display options, consider the following for inspiration:
- Place them in the centre of tables
- Cluster them in corners or on tabletops (looks especially nice when they're mismatched heights, sizes and/or shapes)
- Display them on stacked crates
- Use them to lead guests to your venue or picnic by lining the edge of the pathway
- Place them on stairways (one vase per step)
- Display them on bookshelves/other shelving (adding a pop of colour at height)
- Welcome guests to your celebration by displaying large vases full of beautiful flowers at the entrance to your venue
- Mount them to the wall
- Hang them from the wall, ceiling or branches
WOODEN PLANTERS & CRATES
★ Etsy has a wonderful range of planters and crates, view them here★
Planter boxes and crates look amazing when filled with flowers! So why not take advantage of their stunning appearance and use them as part of your event decor? A little bit different to the usual vases, they will add a touch of uniqueness to your celebration that everyone will love.
★ Etsy has a wonderful range of planters and crates, view them here★
Planter boxes and crates look amazing when filled with flowers! So why not take advantage of their stunning appearance and use them as part of your event decor? A little bit different to the usual vases, they will add a touch of uniqueness to your celebration that everyone will love.
Tip: As they're 'boxes' you can stack them! Just make sure you leave sections of each box sticking out slightly, allowing space to add flowers. A beautiful option for any kind of event, but especially those with a farmhouse/rustic twist.
OUR PICK: Etsy has a wonderful range of wooden planters and crates - from rustic through to modern, you're bound to find something you love! Click here for inspiration.
FLOWER CHANDELIER
Imagine looking up from your table to see gorgeous flowers, gracefully hanging from the ceiling. A stunning yet unique use of blooms that will, without doubt, be a talking point during your celebration. And the best part? You don't need an actual chandelier to pull this off.
Hoops, branches, hanging lights and more can be used as a base for your statement piece - all you have to do is drape with fresh flowers and greenery!
Imagine looking up from your table to see gorgeous flowers, gracefully hanging from the ceiling. A stunning yet unique use of blooms that will, without doubt, be a talking point during your celebration. And the best part? You don't need an actual chandelier to pull this off.
Hoops, branches, hanging lights and more can be used as a base for your statement piece - all you have to do is drape with fresh flowers and greenery!
FLORAL BACKDROPS
Whether you're celebrating inside or outside, a flower backdrop is a great way to make tables look incredible (imagine your dessert set out in front of a beautiful flower wall) and photos look amazing (DIY photobooth, anyone?!).
From small pots mounted on a wall and filled to the brim with gorgeous blooms, bunches of flowers hanging off a rustic branch (as mentioned earlier) and threaded petals that create stunning natural streamers, through to flowers cascading down a wall, an Instagram worthy swing decorated with coloured beauties and a frame/arch with flower accents (i.e. blooms attached in a creative way to one or two corners); these backdrops are guaranteed to give your celebration that 'WOW' factor you've been looking for!
Unlike the vases mentioned earlier, though, these pieces require quite a bit of time, effort and preparation to create. The best tip I can give you is to start each project with the greenery (i.e. wrapping it around, or hanging it from, your item) and then finish it with the colour (flowers of different shapes and sizes); and keep your hot glue gun handy in case of emergency (i.e. the flowers won't do what you want them to). You will be surprised by how beautiful everyday items become when nature takes over!
Tip: If you decide to use one of these pieces as a DIY photobooth backdrop, make sure you leave a cute basket or box of props nearby! Hats, glasses, gloves, bowties, masks, etc. can all be borrowed from friends/family or purchased fairly cheap at your local op shop. You could also leave a polaroid camera, film and a guest book so that party goers can stick their happy snaps onto a page alongside their message for your bride-to-be.
Whether you're celebrating inside or outside, a flower backdrop is a great way to make tables look incredible (imagine your dessert set out in front of a beautiful flower wall) and photos look amazing (DIY photobooth, anyone?!).
From small pots mounted on a wall and filled to the brim with gorgeous blooms, bunches of flowers hanging off a rustic branch (as mentioned earlier) and threaded petals that create stunning natural streamers, through to flowers cascading down a wall, an Instagram worthy swing decorated with coloured beauties and a frame/arch with flower accents (i.e. blooms attached in a creative way to one or two corners); these backdrops are guaranteed to give your celebration that 'WOW' factor you've been looking for!
Unlike the vases mentioned earlier, though, these pieces require quite a bit of time, effort and preparation to create. The best tip I can give you is to start each project with the greenery (i.e. wrapping it around, or hanging it from, your item) and then finish it with the colour (flowers of different shapes and sizes); and keep your hot glue gun handy in case of emergency (i.e. the flowers won't do what you want them to). You will be surprised by how beautiful everyday items become when nature takes over!
Tip: If you decide to use one of these pieces as a DIY photobooth backdrop, make sure you leave a cute basket or box of props nearby! Hats, glasses, gloves, bowties, masks, etc. can all be borrowed from friends/family or purchased fairly cheap at your local op shop. You could also leave a polaroid camera, film and a guest book so that party goers can stick their happy snaps onto a page alongside their message for your bride-to-be.
PETAL PATHWAYS & TABLE RUNNERS
Fairytales really do come true! Make your bride-to-be and her friends feel as though they've stepped into a magical world. A world where following the ' petal road' is the only way to reach their destination! Whether it be a stunning picnic in the forest or glamping tents near the beach, this cute touch will have guests getting more and more excited for the event with every step they take!
Tip: Fresh petals also make absolutely stunning table runners. Sprinkle through the centre of your main eating table, and then add additional decor such as candles in jars or flowers in vases.
Fairytales really do come true! Make your bride-to-be and her friends feel as though they've stepped into a magical world. A world where following the ' petal road' is the only way to reach their destination! Whether it be a stunning picnic in the forest or glamping tents near the beach, this cute touch will have guests getting more and more excited for the event with every step they take!
Tip: Fresh petals also make absolutely stunning table runners. Sprinkle through the centre of your main eating table, and then add additional decor such as candles in jars or flowers in vases.
SEASONAL BLOOMS: WHAT TYPE OF FLOWERS ARE BEST FOR YOUR EVENT?
There are so many beautiful ways to decorate with flowers; and you will get the best effect when using real blooms. But this begs the question... what flowers will be in season when you plan to host your event?
Thanks to our friends at 'Flowers for Everyone', this question has been answered! See below for their professional recommendations that will help you choose the perfect bloom for both your party and the season:
SUMMER FLOWERS
Think summery blooms such as scented garden roses, lilies, dahlias, buddleia (summer lilac), snowberry, fragrant gardenias, fluffy hydrangea, vanda orchids and gloriosa (Christmas lilies).
Thanks to our friends at 'Flowers for Everyone', this question has been answered! See below for their professional recommendations that will help you choose the perfect bloom for both your party and the season:
SUMMER FLOWERS
Think summery blooms such as scented garden roses, lilies, dahlias, buddleia (summer lilac), snowberry, fragrant gardenias, fluffy hydrangea, vanda orchids and gloriosa (Christmas lilies).
AUTUMN FLOWERS
Most summer blooms finish by the end of March, and you will start to see the likes of tulips coming into the shops, as well as lisianthus, autumnal foliage such as nandina, dahlias, perfumed stock, sculptural branches of fig and pomegranate, berries, and velvety celosia.
WINTER FLOWERS
During the cooler moths, our florist studio bursts with ornamental kale, perfumed hyacinth, velvety celosia, cymbidium orchids, succulent red hot fire pokers, deep blue delphinium, cyclamen plants and tortured willow.
During the cooler moths, our florist studio bursts with ornamental kale, perfumed hyacinth, velvety celosia, cymbidium orchids, succulent red hot fire pokers, deep blue delphinium, cyclamen plants and tortured willow.
SPRING FLOWERS
Event in the spring? Expect to see poppies, daffodils and jonquils, phalaenopsis orchids, rhododendron, lilac, roses, freesias, ranunculas, tulips, sweet peas, peonies and blushing bride in florists.
Event in the spring? Expect to see poppies, daffodils and jonquils, phalaenopsis orchids, rhododendron, lilac, roses, freesias, ranunculas, tulips, sweet peas, peonies and blushing bride in florists.
YEAR-ROUND FLOWERS
There are of course the year-round bloomers too, such as gerberas and lilies.
There are of course the year-round bloomers too, such as gerberas and lilies.
ARTICLE RELATED TO FLOWER DECORATIONS:
If you enjoyed the inspiration for floral arrangements and flower decor in this article, you may also enjoy the following:
If you enjoyed the inspiration for floral arrangements and flower decor in this article, you may also enjoy the following:
ENJOY YOUR INCREDIBLY BEAUTIFUL EVENT!
I hope this article answered all of your questions and gave you PLENTY of ideas for decorating your next event! If you're now on the search for some beautiful, fresh flowers to try out the above suggestions, the wonderful team at Flowers for Everyone have everything you need online (providing country wide delivery) and in stores around Sydney! With expert florists and a large range of divine flower arrangements/bouquets to choose from, you'll have no problem finding the perfect blooms for your event!
As always, I absolutely love hearing your feedback - so if you have any suggestions, photos of your very own DIY floral arrangements/displays, or comments on the above article, please share via the comments section below or social media.
Cheers to a beautiful event with the best blooms in town!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)
As always, I absolutely love hearing your feedback - so if you have any suggestions, photos of your very own DIY floral arrangements/displays, or comments on the above article, please share via the comments section below or social media.
Cheers to a beautiful event with the best blooms in town!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE GORGEOUS FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS & FLOWER DECOR TIPS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
Are you wanting to put together a hilariously cheeky night out but don't know where to start? Or perhaps you're after something a little different to the typical activities hens are famous for? From tantric workshops to 'pick your prick' favours, below is ALL the information and inspiration you'll need to plan the ultimate naughty hen party!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
Are you wanting to put together a hilariously cheeky night out but don't know where to start? Or perhaps you're after something a little different to the typical activities hens are famous for? From tantric workshops to 'pick your prick' favours, below is ALL the information and inspiration you'll need to plan the ultimate naughty hen party!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
SET THE SCENE WITH A SAUCY THEME
Build excitement for the celebration by selecting a cheeky hen party theme and requesting that guests arrive decked out in that particular attire! Think along the lines of a Burlesque party (stockings, feathers, corsets, etc.) sexy [anything] (e.g. sexy farmer, sexy superhero, sexy princess, sexy schoolgirl, etc.), masquerade, red lips and so on.
ADD SOME CHEEKY HEN PARTY ACTIVITIES THAT WILL MAKE YOU BLUSH!
18+ TRIVIA NIGHT
Put together your own cheeky trivia night! Search the web for some naughty questions, hire a person to run the show (or, if you’re keen, run it yourself!), grab some hilarious prizes (such as chocolate willies), run funny games in-between and basically have a ridiculously fun time! To get you started, check out this ‘100 Questions About Sex’ game that includes questions such as: ‘What’s the average number of sex partners for women?’ (Answer: 7.5 partners).
DANCE CLASS
With belly dancing, burlesque classes, Latin workshops, Bollywood dance classes, pole dancing, and the cheekier than ever lap dance or twerk classes, your group won’t know where to begin when it comes to shaking their booties! Some venues (such as Aussie Twerk) even give you the option of having some male strippers join the party!
Put together your own cheeky trivia night! Search the web for some naughty questions, hire a person to run the show (or, if you’re keen, run it yourself!), grab some hilarious prizes (such as chocolate willies), run funny games in-between and basically have a ridiculously fun time! To get you started, check out this ‘100 Questions About Sex’ game that includes questions such as: ‘What’s the average number of sex partners for women?’ (Answer: 7.5 partners).
DANCE CLASS
With belly dancing, burlesque classes, Latin workshops, Bollywood dance classes, pole dancing, and the cheekier than ever lap dance or twerk classes, your group won’t know where to begin when it comes to shaking their booties! Some venues (such as Aussie Twerk) even give you the option of having some male strippers join the party!
MALE REVUE SHOW
Like the idea of strippers but want to keep things a little classier?
Like the idea of strippers but want to keep things a little classier?
Hit up a male revue show instead (such as Melbourne's Princes of the Night) where you can watch the boys strut their stuff (and show off their wicked dance moves!) whilst enjoying drinks and busting out some moves of your own. If you're more inclined to be in the spotlight after a few bevs, some hens may end up on stage; however if you'd rather stay in the crowd there's no problems with that either!
NUDE DRAWING CLASS
For those of you with an artistic side (or not, even funnier!), these drawing classes combine fun, laughter, drawing, and of course, nudity!
PLEASURE PARTY
I'm sure you've heard of Tupperware parties? Well, this is similar... except the products belong in the bedroom not the kitchen (and are strictly for adult's eyes ONLY)! Make sure you have champagne at the ready as you prepare to giggle your way through a celebration that focuses on toys of the grown-up variety!
RUDE ORIGAMI
If your hen loves a bit of craft, then rude origami is a must! As the name states... it’s origami, and it’s rude! Get to work creating your very own paper penis, passionate pigs and more! Check out this free PDF for instructions and inspiration!
STRIPPERS ON THE HIGH SEAS
Enjoying a cruise, taking in the sites around your local city, indulging in some delicious bites to eat, knocking back some bubbly and watching a show that will make your entire group blush - what's not to love about a naughty night on the high seas?!
For an example of what you can expect with such an experience, check out Wild Boys Afloat Brisbane by clicking here!
Enjoying a cruise, taking in the sites around your local city, indulging in some delicious bites to eat, knocking back some bubbly and watching a show that will make your entire group blush - what's not to love about a naughty night on the high seas?!
For an example of what you can expect with such an experience, check out Wild Boys Afloat Brisbane by clicking here!
TANTRIC HEN PARTY
If you’re after something 18+ and really unique, why not try out a tantric hens party (such as those run by Blissrising, click here for more info)? Sensual, exciting AND educational - you’ll be leaving this event with skills that can be practiced at home (if you know what I mean?!).
TOPLESS WAITERS AND/OR STRIPPERS
Whether you’re at a hired venue or in your very own lounge room, strippers and topless waiters will add some extra spice to your event! From playing games to taking everything off, it’s up to you just how naughty or nice your event is with these gentlemen!
Handy hint: Click here for some fun games to play with your topless waiters!
If you’re after something 18+ and really unique, why not try out a tantric hens party (such as those run by Blissrising, click here for more info)? Sensual, exciting AND educational - you’ll be leaving this event with skills that can be practiced at home (if you know what I mean?!).
TOPLESS WAITERS AND/OR STRIPPERS
Whether you’re at a hired venue or in your very own lounge room, strippers and topless waiters will add some extra spice to your event! From playing games to taking everything off, it’s up to you just how naughty or nice your event is with these gentlemen!
Handy hint: Click here for some fun games to play with your topless waiters!
PLAY NAUGHTY BACHELORETTE PARTY GAMES THAT WILL BRING THE GIGGLES!
BALLOON POP
Before getting the party started, write down 10 MA15+ or R rated questions and place them in 10 separate balloons. Throughout the night, have guests pop the balloons; with your hen answering the question that comes out. If she refuses to give the group an answer, it's time for a punishment! This can be anything from drinking a shot or sipping her drink to completing a dare.
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HENS NIGHT GAME - POP THAT BALLOON! <<<
Remember: place all balloons in the bin after use!
CHEEKY TIME CAPSULE
The overall goal of 'Cheeky Time Capsule' is to prepare a box of gifts, letters, predictions and/or memories for your hen to open with her husband on their one year wedding anniversary.
To play, you can either ask guests to bring along a cheeky, wrapped gift for your hen (such as sexy launderette, love coupons, etc.) that can be placed into the 'time capsule' box when they arrive OR at the party have guests write down cheeky predictions (e.g. 'the happy couple will have consummated their marriage at least two times on their wedding night), naughty date ideas (to keep the flame burning in their second year of marriage) and/or cheeky memories (e.g. what happened the first time the happy couple met). These notes can then be placed into the time capsule.
After the party, seal the box and gift to your best friend (with strict instructions not to open it before their anniversary)! If you don't trust that she can wait this long, keep it sealed at your place and gift to her on her anniversary... what a present it will be!
Before getting the party started, write down 10 MA15+ or R rated questions and place them in 10 separate balloons. Throughout the night, have guests pop the balloons; with your hen answering the question that comes out. If she refuses to give the group an answer, it's time for a punishment! This can be anything from drinking a shot or sipping her drink to completing a dare.
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HENS NIGHT GAME - POP THAT BALLOON! <<<
Remember: place all balloons in the bin after use!
CHEEKY TIME CAPSULE
The overall goal of 'Cheeky Time Capsule' is to prepare a box of gifts, letters, predictions and/or memories for your hen to open with her husband on their one year wedding anniversary.
To play, you can either ask guests to bring along a cheeky, wrapped gift for your hen (such as sexy launderette, love coupons, etc.) that can be placed into the 'time capsule' box when they arrive OR at the party have guests write down cheeky predictions (e.g. 'the happy couple will have consummated their marriage at least two times on their wedding night), naughty date ideas (to keep the flame burning in their second year of marriage) and/or cheeky memories (e.g. what happened the first time the happy couple met). These notes can then be placed into the time capsule.
After the party, seal the box and gift to your best friend (with strict instructions not to open it before their anniversary)! If you don't trust that she can wait this long, keep it sealed at your place and gift to her on her anniversary... what a present it will be!
DIRTY MINDS
★Click here for hilarious pre-made ‘dirty’ questionnaire cards★
Like jokes, riddles are a fantastic ice-breaker (especially riddles such as these – forcing your friend’s minds into the gutter, even though the answer is VERY clean!). To play this game, search the net for some hilariously cheeky options - here’s an example to get you started:
★Click here for hilarious pre-made ‘dirty’ questionnaire cards★
Like jokes, riddles are a fantastic ice-breaker (especially riddles such as these – forcing your friend’s minds into the gutter, even though the answer is VERY clean!). To play this game, search the net for some hilariously cheeky options - here’s an example to get you started:
Question: I’m hard when you put me in your mouth; soft and wet when you take me out. What am I?
Answer: Chewing gum!
Answer: Chewing gum!
Once you've found at least 10, write out the questions only on a word document and print off ready for the celebration (make sure you also print off a 'cheat sheet' for yourself that includes all answers'. On the day, hand out to guests and, one by one, read the riddles out loud. Give the gals enough time to laugh and ponder before moving on to the next riddle. The person or group with the most correct answers wins!
DIRTY PICTIONARY
★Click here to view free printable 'dirty pictionary' words★
A hilarously cheeky game that will get everyone giggling! To play, you first have to write down and cut out words related to hen parties and couples, such as strippers, topless waiter and missionary position (or download our free 'dirty pictionary words' printable here).
When it comes time for the game, split guests into two teams. Each team can then take turns in having one member pick a word/phrase from the bowl and attempting to draw it. The object of the game is for their team members to guess what they are drawing using pictures alone (that is, the person who chose the word/phrase isn't allowed to talk.. at all!). Set a time limit to make it harder!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: HOW TO PLAY DIRTY PICTIONARY LIKE A BOSS! <<<
EMOJI PICTIONARY (18+)
★Click here to view a pre-made 18+ emojoi pictionary game card★
If you hen loves to use an emoji in her daily life, she will absolutely love this game! To play, try and think of at least 10 cheeky bedroom antics and the emoji (or emojis) that describe them. Now, put together a list of your 'acts' (#winkwink), using the descriptive emojis only - these will become your game cards (click here for an example). Hand out to guests when you're ready to play; with the dirtiest, cheekiest, naughtiest person or group being the one with the most correct answers!
★Click here to view a pre-made 18+ emojoi pictionary game card★
If you hen loves to use an emoji in her daily life, she will absolutely love this game! To play, try and think of at least 10 cheeky bedroom antics and the emoji (or emojis) that describe them. Now, put together a list of your 'acts' (#winkwink), using the descriptive emojis only - these will become your game cards (click here for an example). Hand out to guests when you're ready to play; with the dirtiest, cheekiest, naughtiest person or group being the one with the most correct answers!
NAUGHTY OR NICE?
On a table labelled ‘Naughty or Nice?’, have enough drinks for one per guest attending. As guests arrive, ask them to pick a beverage. The twist being that some are naughty (i.e. cocktails, straight shots, etc.) and some are nice (i.e. water, lemonade, etc.)!
Fun tip: you can also play this game in the style of ‘spin the bottle’. Simply place shot glasses in a circle and guests spin the bottle, taking whichever shot it happens to land on. Once again, some shots are 'nice' and some are 'naughty'
PIN THE JUNK
★Click here for a custom 'Pin the Junk on the Hunk' game★
Print off a HUGE full body photo or poster of your hen’s crush (for example) + enough cartoon peckers for each guest. On the night, party-goers will take it in turns to be blindfolded and spun around before tying to ‘pin’ the junk in the correct position. Write each guests’ name on their particular penis so that you can keep track of who is winning!
★Click here for a custom 'Pin the Junk on the Hunk' game★
Print off a HUGE full body photo or poster of your hen’s crush (for example) + enough cartoon peckers for each guest. On the night, party-goers will take it in turns to be blindfolded and spun around before tying to ‘pin’ the junk in the correct position. Write each guests’ name on their particular penis so that you can keep track of who is winning!
Hot tip:The bridesmaids at my hen do photoshopped the most HILARIOUS picture of my husband's face onto another man's body. I couldn't stop laughing whilst playing (made even funnier by the fact that his cousins had to pin his junk as well!). If you don’t like the idea of ‘Pin the Junk’, other alternatives include ‘Pash the Poser’ (use lipstick and ‘kiss’ the poster in the correct position), ‘Bouquet on the Bride’, ‘Ring on the Finger’, etc. You can get creative with this game – so use something that will be personal/make your bride-to-be laugh!
POSITION GAME
★Click here for a printable ‘Positions’ game★
Strictly 18+ only - the 'positions' game is bound to have the entire room in giggles! To organise, you'll have to dig into your bedroom knowledge (or see how much google knows!) and find around 10 different 'position' names (such as 'the spider') and their corresponding images (cartoons or real life - this part depends how raunchy you want to get!). Once you've collected this info, create game cards by placing the images on a word/powerpoint document; leaving space (such as a line or text box) for guests to write their guesses. Print off and hand out on the day, with the group/person to get the most right being the winner!
★Click here for a printable ‘Positions’ game★
Strictly 18+ only - the 'positions' game is bound to have the entire room in giggles! To organise, you'll have to dig into your bedroom knowledge (or see how much google knows!) and find around 10 different 'position' names (such as 'the spider') and their corresponding images (cartoons or real life - this part depends how raunchy you want to get!). Once you've collected this info, create game cards by placing the images on a word/powerpoint document; leaving space (such as a line or text box) for guests to write their guesses. Print off and hand out on the day, with the group/person to get the most right being the winner!
Hot tip:This game can be quite hard (pun intended) to play. To make it a bit easier, you can list the names of each position randomly at the bottom of the game card (or display the names randomly on a large blackboard at the front of the room). It's then up to guests to decipher which name goes with which image!
PUMP THE PECKER
Ask guests to get into pairs. Each pair is given one LONG balloon and one balloon pump. One person from each pair then sits on a seat, with the balloon pump held tightly between their thighs; hands behind their back. When you say 'go', the other person in each pair has to place the balloon over the top of the pump, before kneeling down and pumping it up as fast as they can! First team to either pop or inflate their balloon wins!
>>> RELATED ARTICLE: A CHEEKIER HEN DO GAME - PUMP THAT PECKER! <<<
SELL YOUR SH*T!
This activity will make for many laughs! Put together a pack of objects/products that your hen has to try and sell throughout the night. How embarrassing these items are is entirely up to you! Any money she manages to make should go towards buying something she really wants (let’s be honest... it will probably be that awesome looking cocktail or a souvlaki from that food truck down the road).
Handy hint: Get guests involved by asking them to bring along ONE op shop item that your hen has to sell throughout the night. It will be hilarious seeing what everyone turns up with!
THIS OR THAT
★Click here for a range of hilarious ‘This or That’ printable games★
This one is guaranteed to have the party in fits of laughter! To play, pick a particular category (for example, 'porn or singing', 'boobs or but', etc.) and search for some hilarious images. Create game cards from your stash of piccies (click here for example layouts) and award points to those who guess right. Person with the most points at the end of the game wins!
★Click here for a range of hilarious ‘This or That’ printable games★
This one is guaranteed to have the party in fits of laughter! To play, pick a particular category (for example, 'porn or singing', 'boobs or but', etc.) and search for some hilarious images. Create game cards from your stash of piccies (click here for example layouts) and award points to those who guess right. Person with the most points at the end of the game wins!
EVEN MORE CHEEKY GAME INSPIRATION
From ‘18+ charades’ and ‘penis carving’ to ‘truth or dare’ and ‘I never’, there are SO many fun games that can be played on your special day. For the ultimate list of hens night games (that can be made as naughty ... or nice... as you like!) and their instructions, click here.
NAUGHTY HEN PARTY GIFTS
GAME CARDS
★Click here to view printable 'truth or dare' game cards★
A really fun game card for a cheekier soiree is a twist on the old ‘Truth or Dare’. To make the cards, ask for the following information:
Name and Truth or Dare for [hen’s name].
Print as many off as there are guests, mount them onto coloured card (pick a colour that fits with your hen’s night theme for best results) and add them to your gift bags.
When guests arrive at the party, ask that they write down their name along with a truth question or a dare to complete.
Collect the cards and, in front of the whole group, gift them to your hen; explaining that each guest is actually to complete the truth/dare they wrote down for the hen, WITH the hen! Everyone will be beside themselves (either because they wrote something horrible down and they’re having massive regrets, or because they saw what a friend wrote down and cannot stop laughing!).
Keep the giggles going by having your hen read out each of the cards, announcing who is performing each truth/dare with her as she goes!
For more game card ideas, check out the ultimate list of hen party games by clicking here!
★Click here to view printable 'truth or dare' game cards★
A really fun game card for a cheekier soiree is a twist on the old ‘Truth or Dare’. To make the cards, ask for the following information:
Name and Truth or Dare for [hen’s name].
Print as many off as there are guests, mount them onto coloured card (pick a colour that fits with your hen’s night theme for best results) and add them to your gift bags.
When guests arrive at the party, ask that they write down their name along with a truth question or a dare to complete.
Collect the cards and, in front of the whole group, gift them to your hen; explaining that each guest is actually to complete the truth/dare they wrote down for the hen, WITH the hen! Everyone will be beside themselves (either because they wrote something horrible down and they’re having massive regrets, or because they saw what a friend wrote down and cannot stop laughing!).
Keep the giggles going by having your hen read out each of the cards, announcing who is performing each truth/dare with her as she goes!
For more game card ideas, check out the ultimate list of hen party games by clicking here!
HOME-BAKED GOODIES
Consider yourself a bit of a chef? Why not bake some fun treats that will double as favours? Think along the lines of cupcakes topped with fondant penises, mini pecker cakes, slices of a large pecker cake or even penis shaped chocolate! If you don't fancy yourself as a baker, there's also the option of placing malteasers in a paper bag and labelling it as 'balls'. Want to up the 18+ factor? Include one chocolate willy in the bags as well and label them as 'dick and balls'.
NAUGHTY BISCUITS
Guaranteed to bring the giggles, naughty biscuits make fantastic favours, prizes or platter fillers! Whether you create these beauties yourself (the experience will no doubt get you super excited for what's to come) or get the professionals to do it ('The Confectionist', for example, can turn even your wildest requests into a biscuit!), these delicious little treats are bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
Need biscuit inspiration? Fluffy handcuffs, six-packs, boobs or penises will all work perfectly with your cheeky theme!
Consider yourself a bit of a chef? Why not bake some fun treats that will double as favours? Think along the lines of cupcakes topped with fondant penises, mini pecker cakes, slices of a large pecker cake or even penis shaped chocolate! If you don't fancy yourself as a baker, there's also the option of placing malteasers in a paper bag and labelling it as 'balls'. Want to up the 18+ factor? Include one chocolate willy in the bags as well and label them as 'dick and balls'.
NAUGHTY BISCUITS
Guaranteed to bring the giggles, naughty biscuits make fantastic favours, prizes or platter fillers! Whether you create these beauties yourself (the experience will no doubt get you super excited for what's to come) or get the professionals to do it ('The Confectionist', for example, can turn even your wildest requests into a biscuit!), these delicious little treats are bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
Need biscuit inspiration? Fluffy handcuffs, six-packs, boobs or penises will all work perfectly with your cheeky theme!
PLANT GIFTS
Set up a table with mini/baby cacti ready to gift to guests at the end of the celebration or to use as prizes throughout the event. Don't forget to add a 'PICK YOUR PRICK' sign to the favour table!
Set up a table with mini/baby cacti ready to gift to guests at the end of the celebration or to use as prizes throughout the event. Don't forget to add a 'PICK YOUR PRICK' sign to the favour table!
PLAY-DOUGH (HOME-MADE)
If you're planning on incorporating a game such as 'mould a man' (or body part!), consider placing balls of play-dough in your goodie bags.
A great home-made recipe that has been tried and tested by yours truly can be found on the side of McKenzie's Cream of Tartar containers (no affiliation, just LOVE the result!). Add food colouring in your theme colours to tie everything together. Click here to view the recipe.
RAUNCHY JOKES
Get Googling and find yourself some extra naughty jokes (whether you decide to stick with the whole ‘wedding theme’ or go completely off topic is completely up to you). Not only a great ice-breaker (have each guest read their jokes out to the group for instant good times!), but also a cheap and fun goodie bag filler option
SHOTS AND/OR MINI ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
CHEERS to your beautiful friend! Get the celebration started with some delicious mini drinks or shots - the perfect addition to any goodie bag!
Handy hint: Save up some small glass jars in the lead up to the event. You can then purchase large bottles of champagne, wine, etc. and fill the little jars. Decorate as you wish (e.g. with a twine bow) and place into gift bags.
If you're planning on incorporating a game such as 'mould a man' (or body part!), consider placing balls of play-dough in your goodie bags.
A great home-made recipe that has been tried and tested by yours truly can be found on the side of McKenzie's Cream of Tartar containers (no affiliation, just LOVE the result!). Add food colouring in your theme colours to tie everything together. Click here to view the recipe.
RAUNCHY JOKES
Get Googling and find yourself some extra naughty jokes (whether you decide to stick with the whole ‘wedding theme’ or go completely off topic is completely up to you). Not only a great ice-breaker (have each guest read their jokes out to the group for instant good times!), but also a cheap and fun goodie bag filler option
SHOTS AND/OR MINI ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
CHEERS to your beautiful friend! Get the celebration started with some delicious mini drinks or shots - the perfect addition to any goodie bag!
Handy hint: Save up some small glass jars in the lead up to the event. You can then purchase large bottles of champagne, wine, etc. and fill the little jars. Decorate as you wish (e.g. with a twine bow) and place into gift bags.
OTHER NAUGHTY BACHELORETTE PARTY INSPIRATION
FOOD
From naughty biscuits and cakes shaped like the male appendage, to risque labels that will have you looking at food in a whole new light - there are so many fun, hilarious and downright cheeky options when it comes to the food department! A quick search of Pinterest or Google will give you plenty of ideas.
From naughty biscuits and cakes shaped like the male appendage, to risque labels that will have you looking at food in a whole new light - there are so many fun, hilarious and downright cheeky options when it comes to the food department! A quick search of Pinterest or Google will give you plenty of ideas.
GUEST BOOK
Purchase a white singlet and ask if friends have some permanent markers lying around that they could bring along to the event. On the day/night of the hen party, let the girls go to town on it with well wishes, their names, pictures, funny quotes said throughout the night, funny stories from the celebration, etc.!
Handy hint: Make sure you get a photo of the hen in her 'guest book' at the end of the evening. It can then either be framed (if she's game enough to hang it on a wall!) or kept in a special box at home as a memento from an incredible event.
PHOTO BOOTH (FOR ADULTS ONLY)
Photo booths are the best! And this type of party allows for SO many fun prop ideas that, really, how could you not have one!
Save some cash and DIY it with a simple backdrop (this could be anything from a plain wall to a pretty area in your garden). Next, add a basket full of props. Think along the lines of blackboards and chalk (so that guests can write their own cheeky words - bound to get more risque and hilarious as the night goes on!) and DIY cardboard items (e.g. Google some funny 18+ cartoons, such as peckers, print them off and glue them onto cardboard. Carefully cut around the outside of the picture and, boom, instant prop!).
Does anyone in the group have some cheeky dress ups/accessories? Add those to the loot as well!
Purchase a white singlet and ask if friends have some permanent markers lying around that they could bring along to the event. On the day/night of the hen party, let the girls go to town on it with well wishes, their names, pictures, funny quotes said throughout the night, funny stories from the celebration, etc.!
Handy hint: Make sure you get a photo of the hen in her 'guest book' at the end of the evening. It can then either be framed (if she's game enough to hang it on a wall!) or kept in a special box at home as a memento from an incredible event.
PHOTO BOOTH (FOR ADULTS ONLY)
Photo booths are the best! And this type of party allows for SO many fun prop ideas that, really, how could you not have one!
Save some cash and DIY it with a simple backdrop (this could be anything from a plain wall to a pretty area in your garden). Next, add a basket full of props. Think along the lines of blackboards and chalk (so that guests can write their own cheeky words - bound to get more risque and hilarious as the night goes on!) and DIY cardboard items (e.g. Google some funny 18+ cartoons, such as peckers, print them off and glue them onto cardboard. Carefully cut around the outside of the picture and, boom, instant prop!).
Does anyone in the group have some cheeky dress ups/accessories? Add those to the loot as well!
ARTICLE RELATED TO THESE NAUGHTY BACHELORETTE PARTY IDEAS:
If you enjoyed the naughty hen party inspiration in this article, we think you'll also LOVE the hilarious game of 'Pump the Pecker'! Who knew balloons could be sooo cheeky?! For game instructions (plus alternative ways to play),click here.
If you enjoyed the naughty hen party inspiration in this article, we think you'll also LOVE the hilarious game of 'Pump the Pecker'! Who knew balloons could be sooo cheeky?! For game instructions (plus alternative ways to play),click here.
ENJOY YOUR NAUGHTY HENS NIGHT!
I hope this article has provided you with ALL of the cheeky, raunchy and naughty hen party ideas, making your planning as easy and fun as ever! If you would like to share any additional options that should be added to the list, please do so via the comments below or social media (AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest).
Cheers to the cheekiest and most hilarious party in town!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
Cheers to the cheekiest and most hilarious party in town!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE HILARIOUSLY NAUGHTY BACHELORETTE PARTY IDEAS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: GABRIELA CIOBOTARU OF 'FLANNERYS ORGANIC & WHOLEFOOD MARKET'
A DIY grazing table or platter is a great way to incorporate an array of delicious treats all in one glorious place, while inspiring those inner foodie styling skills. Ideal to showcase beautiful seasonal fruits, combined with all your favourite foods; the options are endless, so we thought we’d start you off with a few!
A DIY grazing table or platter is a great way to incorporate an array of delicious treats all in one glorious place, while inspiring those inner foodie styling skills. Ideal to showcase beautiful seasonal fruits, combined with all your favourite foods; the options are endless, so we thought we’d start you off with a few!
GLUTEN FREE GRAZING PLATTER
A gluten free diet should not be an inconvenient factor when it comes to celebrations. If you are thinking on how you can still enjoy the variety of a fancy spread while on a gluten free diet, here are some tips and alternatives.
Start with adding a source of protein like Flannerys nitrate free deli meats, then place some aged cheeses. Scatter nuts such as almonds, macadamia, hazelnuts around, and then include some fruit and vegetables. Go for chopped celery stalks, carrot, cherry tomatoes, grapes, figs and pears. Finally, you can’t forget the savoury and crunchy side of your platter. Add some nut and seed crackers and rice crackers, or opt for gluten free bread, such as buckwheat or Venerdi’s Paleo Seeded Bread. Make sure you add some sauerkraut for some extra probiotics and your favourite gluten free dip! We love Roza’s Gourmet range.
Start with adding a source of protein like Flannerys nitrate free deli meats, then place some aged cheeses. Scatter nuts such as almonds, macadamia, hazelnuts around, and then include some fruit and vegetables. Go for chopped celery stalks, carrot, cherry tomatoes, grapes, figs and pears. Finally, you can’t forget the savoury and crunchy side of your platter. Add some nut and seed crackers and rice crackers, or opt for gluten free bread, such as buckwheat or Venerdi’s Paleo Seeded Bread. Make sure you add some sauerkraut for some extra probiotics and your favourite gluten free dip! We love Roza’s Gourmet range.
VEGAN GRAZING PLATTER
Did someone mention a vegan platter? There are so many varieties and great food choices to replace the usual salami and cheese which are vegan friendly, nutritious and delicious.
If you want a hard cheese alternative you can opt for an almond mozzarella type such as Greengrove Foods Notzarella, or a coconut based cheddar cheese. For a soft cheese alternative there are a variety of cashew based cheeses available that can be plain, or choose a flavoured style with dill, Italian herbs or even a basil pesto. We love Kehoes’s Pesto ‘Cream Cheese’, it’s super flavoursome and full of probiotics. To replace the meaty flavour, go for Nobel Jerky, we love the teriyaki flavour, falafels or some plant based patties.
For freshness, extra nutritional content, and more colour, play with your fruits and vegetables. Add apples, dried apricots or figs, capsicum, tomatoes, carrot and fennel…select pieces that you can cut up and place decoratively on your platter.
If you want a hard cheese alternative you can opt for an almond mozzarella type such as Greengrove Foods Notzarella, or a coconut based cheddar cheese. For a soft cheese alternative there are a variety of cashew based cheeses available that can be plain, or choose a flavoured style with dill, Italian herbs or even a basil pesto. We love Kehoes’s Pesto ‘Cream Cheese’, it’s super flavoursome and full of probiotics. To replace the meaty flavour, go for Nobel Jerky, we love the teriyaki flavour, falafels or some plant based patties.
For freshness, extra nutritional content, and more colour, play with your fruits and vegetables. Add apples, dried apricots or figs, capsicum, tomatoes, carrot and fennel…select pieces that you can cut up and place decoratively on your platter.
DESSERT GRAZING PLATTER
And the most waited platter – dessert. There is no proper celebration without something sweet, and dessert platters or grazing tables are the best way to alternate different types of treats.
Start off with creating your own organic vegan cake which is super simple with The Gluten Free Food Co mixes. If you want to add something decadent and rich, opt for some squares of dark chocolate, our bulk bins have plenty of variety.
Fruits are always a ‘go to’ for a dessert platter, so add seasonal organic mangoes, cherries, grapes, raspberries, and why not add a chocolate dipping sauce (the Vego Spread is amazing!) and top off with some crushed nuts? To decorate, add a few dried figs, apricots, plums, nuts and try Tom and Luke Protein Balls. The Pana Chocolate Coconut & Goji Chocolate and Loving Earth Chocolate Cranberries are some other great options to sprinkle in-between the fruits and add some extra yumminess to your grazing plate.
Start off with creating your own organic vegan cake which is super simple with The Gluten Free Food Co mixes. If you want to add something decadent and rich, opt for some squares of dark chocolate, our bulk bins have plenty of variety.
Fruits are always a ‘go to’ for a dessert platter, so add seasonal organic mangoes, cherries, grapes, raspberries, and why not add a chocolate dipping sauce (the Vego Spread is amazing!) and top off with some crushed nuts? To decorate, add a few dried figs, apricots, plums, nuts and try Tom and Luke Protein Balls. The Pana Chocolate Coconut & Goji Chocolate and Loving Earth Chocolate Cranberries are some other great options to sprinkle in-between the fruits and add some extra yumminess to your grazing plate.
ARTICLE RELATED TO GRAZING PLATTERS:
If you enjoyed the grazing platter inspiration in this article, we think you will also love the food bar ideas in the following article. Any foodie's dream, food bars/stations can be filled to the brim with your bride-to-be's favourite meals. Have fun creating - your guests are guaranteed to have fun devouring it! Click here for inspiration.
If you enjoyed the grazing platter inspiration in this article, we think you will also love the food bar ideas in the following article. Any foodie's dream, food bars/stations can be filled to the brim with your bride-to-be's favourite meals. Have fun creating - your guests are guaranteed to have fun devouring it! Click here for inspiration.
AUTHOR BIO - FLANNERYS ORGANIC & WHOLEFOOD MARKET
PROVIDING HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES
Flannerys Organic & Wholefood Market offers a huge range of fresh, healthy and organic produce, including unpackaged bulk wholefoods, no added hormone organic and free-range meat, gluten-free products galore and plenty of healthy snacks. Pop in for free naturopathic advice, vegan-friendly and paraben-free cosmetics, plus all the regular health food supplies. For more information and easy to follow recipes, visit flannerys.com.au.
Flannerys Organic & Wholefood Market offers a huge range of fresh, healthy and organic produce, including unpackaged bulk wholefoods, no added hormone organic and free-range meat, gluten-free products galore and plenty of healthy snacks. Pop in for free naturopathic advice, vegan-friendly and paraben-free cosmetics, plus all the regular health food supplies. For more information and easy to follow recipes, visit flannerys.com.au.
Website: www.flannerys.com.au
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE GRAZING PLATTER IDEAS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
Are you planning an event but looking for eco-friendly party decorations as an alternative to the regular single-use supplies? See below for some great inspiration that will mean you can host a stylish, colourful and fun celebration... but with less waste!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
Are you planning an event but looking for eco-friendly party decorations as an alternative to the regular single-use supplies? See below for some great inspiration that will mean you can host a stylish, colourful and fun celebration... but with less waste!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
FABRIC
BUNTING
★Click here for some beautiful fabric bunting options★
One of my favourites! Bunting made from fabric is not only durable and reusable, but also stunning to look at! Decorate your event by hanging over food tables, between trees, across rooms or along fences. You could even wrap it around tree trunks or posts for a unique look.
★Click here for some beautiful fabric bunting options★
One of my favourites! Bunting made from fabric is not only durable and reusable, but also stunning to look at! Decorate your event by hanging over food tables, between trees, across rooms or along fences. You could even wrap it around tree trunks or posts for a unique look.
If you’re a bit of a pro with the sewing machine, bunting can be created at home by using old fabric (such as unused clothes), material found at your local op shop or fabric pieces purchased from a craft store. If you’re not so confident in the DIY department, many retailers and boutique stores stock handmade fabric bunting.
Not so confident in the DIY department? Many retailers and boutique stores stock handmade fabric bunting. My go-to stores include CloudDen (makers of whimsical felt ball garlands), and QueenBBunting (makers of fabric flags for all occasions).
Handy tip: Create or purchase bunting in colours and/or patterns that can be used at a variety of events (e.g. neutral colours such as white suit just about any occasion, and reds can be used at Christmas, Valentine’s day, colourful parties, etc.). If you have children, the bunting you choose for your event will also come in handy at their parties, and can be used as a beautiful decoration in their bedroom/playroom #somanypossibilities
NAPKINS
★Click here to find see a range of beautiful, fabric napkins★
Fabric napkins not only make beautiful table decor, but also add a touch of sophistication and (if you choose) a pop of colour to your overall celebration. If you purchase colour schemes or patterns that you simply adore, they can also be used frequently in your day-to-day lives (or stored neatly in your cupboard until the next event!).
★Click here to find see a range of beautiful, fabric napkins★
Fabric napkins not only make beautiful table decor, but also add a touch of sophistication and (if you choose) a pop of colour to your overall celebration. If you purchase colour schemes or patterns that you simply adore, they can also be used frequently in your day-to-day lives (or stored neatly in your cupboard until the next event!).
TABLE CLOTHS
Another fantastic product to have in the cupboard at home, fabric table cloths are well worth the initial investment! Once again, stick to colours and/or patterns that you will be able to use at future events. White tablecloths are always a good starting point, as you can dress them up with colourful food and decor to match the particular theme you’re preparing for.
Another fantastic product to have in the cupboard at home, fabric table cloths are well worth the initial investment! Once again, stick to colours and/or patterns that you will be able to use at future events. White tablecloths are always a good starting point, as you can dress them up with colourful food and decor to match the particular theme you’re preparing for.
FAVOURS
Not technically classed as decorations, but whenever I set up for an event, the favour table is always a big part of the overall ‘look’ and ‘feel’. So, if you’re after eco-friendly party favours that are fun for guests AND beautiful to look at, see below:
SEED BOMBS
★Click here to view a range of seed bomb favours★
These favours are designed to make flowers grow wherever they land (how cool is that?!). They will also become a beautiful part of the decor at your event should you wrap them in burlap or fabric and tuck cute, dried flowers in the centre (for example).
★Click here to view a range of seed bomb favours★
These favours are designed to make flowers grow wherever they land (how cool is that?!). They will also become a beautiful part of the decor at your event should you wrap them in burlap or fabric and tuck cute, dried flowers in the centre (for example).
Click here for images and crafting instructions (if you love a bit of DIY, this option is for you!).
For pre-made seed bombs that the bees and butterflies will adore as much as your guests, click here. Alternatively, stick to the party spirit with these cocktail mix seed bombs! They will grow into beautiful garnishes that can be used at later events #sohandy
PERSONALISED DRINKING TOOLS
★Click here to view a selection of fun & colourful drinking accessories★
An option that can be used throughout the party and for many years to come! 'Get a metal straw, jar and cutlery engraved for each person', says Lottie Dalziel of Banish. 'Not only does this look amazing, it keeps everyone accountable'. Jars can be saved from your cooking escapades in the lead-up to your celebration, whilst cutlery and metal straws can be purchased from many local or online stores.
★Click here to view a selection of fun & colourful drinking accessories★
An option that can be used throughout the party and for many years to come! 'Get a metal straw, jar and cutlery engraved for each person', says Lottie Dalziel of Banish. 'Not only does this look amazing, it keeps everyone accountable'. Jars can be saved from your cooking escapades in the lead-up to your celebration, whilst cutlery and metal straws can be purchased from many local or online stores.
If you're after a colourful straw option, I suggest taking a look at the Turtle & Me range (pictured below) by clicking here!
For those who would prefer an alternative to jars for their guests to drink from, there is also the option of personalised cups. Dedicated to ‘creating fun and simple environmental solutions that reduce unnecessary waste’, co-founders of 'Better Cup', Sam and Christie, provide custom-made tumblers, flutes and stemless glasses; perfect for bringing your theme to life in a sustainable way!
OTHER ECO-GIFTS
From organic skincare to home-baked goodies, you will find an incredible list of eco favour ideas by clicking here!
From organic skincare to home-baked goodies, you will find an incredible list of eco favour ideas by clicking here!
FOOD
Food isn’t usually something that comes to mind when you’re in the midst of planning your event decor, but you would be surprised by just how handy it can be! See below for ways in which edibles can become the decorations you desire:
HERBS
Not only delicious in meals, but also perfect for creating hanging decor and/or natural fragrance! ‘Herbs are great for the kitchen, but they can also make great decoration when they’re dried’ says Siavash Ghazvinian, co-founder of Ethical Tree. ‘Hang herbs like rosemary to dry in a visible place to add life and aroma to a room. Once dried you can even make wreaths out of them with a bit of string and hang them across your venue’.
SEASONAL FRUIT & VEGETABLES
If particular foods are in season when your event is on, use this to your advantage. An example of seasonal foods that make great decor is pumpkins, squashes and gourds. ‘[These] are three things you can grow relatively easily and proudly display across your home’ says Siavash Ghazvinian; then once your event has wrapped up, you can either keep them as decor or ‘use the edible ones in various recipes you can find online.’
HERBS
Not only delicious in meals, but also perfect for creating hanging decor and/or natural fragrance! ‘Herbs are great for the kitchen, but they can also make great decoration when they’re dried’ says Siavash Ghazvinian, co-founder of Ethical Tree. ‘Hang herbs like rosemary to dry in a visible place to add life and aroma to a room. Once dried you can even make wreaths out of them with a bit of string and hang them across your venue’.
SEASONAL FRUIT & VEGETABLES
If particular foods are in season when your event is on, use this to your advantage. An example of seasonal foods that make great decor is pumpkins, squashes and gourds. ‘[These] are three things you can grow relatively easily and proudly display across your home’ says Siavash Ghazvinian; then once your event has wrapped up, you can either keep them as decor or ‘use the edible ones in various recipes you can find online.’
UTENSILS & SERVING DISHES
‘You can get super creative with food to help you prepare or serve your dishes’ says Laura Trotter, sustainable living educator. A few of her favourite options include ‘using rosemary skewers for kebabs on a BBQ, a ring of red capsicum as an egg ring, serving guacamole inside a halved avocado shell [and] serving fresh fruit salad inside a halved watermelon, rockmelon, honeydew or pineapple’ (more detailed information can be found here). Eco friendly and a fabulous way to reduce the amount of dishes you need to wash after the party!
‘You can get super creative with food to help you prepare or serve your dishes’ says Laura Trotter, sustainable living educator. A few of her favourite options include ‘using rosemary skewers for kebabs on a BBQ, a ring of red capsicum as an egg ring, serving guacamole inside a halved avocado shell [and] serving fresh fruit salad inside a halved watermelon, rockmelon, honeydew or pineapple’ (more detailed information can be found here). Eco friendly and a fabulous way to reduce the amount of dishes you need to wash after the party!
HIRE/BORROW
If you know exactly what you need to decorate your event, it's worth asking friends and family if they happen to have one/some of these items stashed away at home.
Borrowing decor (such as tablecloths, chairs/chair covers, centrepieces, lighting and more) will be a fantastic way to save some cash. And if you don't happen to come across the product/s you need in this way, consider hiring from your local event business instead. They often have everything mentioned above, plus options such as karaoke machines, portable heaters, etc.!
Borrowing decor (such as tablecloths, chairs/chair covers, centrepieces, lighting and more) will be a fantastic way to save some cash. And if you don't happen to come across the product/s you need in this way, consider hiring from your local event business instead. They often have everything mentioned above, plus options such as karaoke machines, portable heaters, etc.!
JARS
Mason jars are one of my favourite things to re-purpose! From lighting a room to sipping on a cool beverage, there are so many uses. See below for a few of the best:
CANDLELIGHT
‘Put a tea light candle in old jars to create an amazing atmosphere’, says Lottie Dalziel. To pull this off, save up a variety of jars (small, large and in-between) in the lead up to your event. When it comes to decorating, create small clusters (approximately 5 different shaped and sized jars) in the middle of dinner tables, favour tables, food tables, etc. For larger areas, such as the corner of a balcony, place approximately 10 – 15 jars (depending on the space, maybe more). In the hour before your event is due to start, light the candles and carefully place them inside your jars. Instant ambience!
Handy tip: If you’re going for a rustic theme, placing one, two or a cluster of jar candles on top of logs will create a beautiful centrepiece for your celebration.
CANDLELIGHT
‘Put a tea light candle in old jars to create an amazing atmosphere’, says Lottie Dalziel. To pull this off, save up a variety of jars (small, large and in-between) in the lead up to your event. When it comes to decorating, create small clusters (approximately 5 different shaped and sized jars) in the middle of dinner tables, favour tables, food tables, etc. For larger areas, such as the corner of a balcony, place approximately 10 – 15 jars (depending on the space, maybe more). In the hour before your event is due to start, light the candles and carefully place them inside your jars. Instant ambience!
Handy tip: If you’re going for a rustic theme, placing one, two or a cluster of jar candles on top of logs will create a beautiful centrepiece for your celebration.
DECORATIVE JARS
Olinda Collective created these decorative jars as a unique, waste-free Australian centrepiece for the Christmas table, but they’re so beautiful I think they’d be perfect at any event during the year as well! Click the image below for DIY steps:
Olinda Collective created these decorative jars as a unique, waste-free Australian centrepiece for the Christmas table, but they’re so beautiful I think they’d be perfect at any event during the year as well! Click the image below for DIY steps:
VASES
Jars also make fantastic vases. With so many different sizes available, you’re sure to find something to display your beautiful bunches in! And if you want to put a unique spin on this decor option, hang the jar vases from trees or even mount them on the wall!
Jars also make fantastic vases. With so many different sizes available, you’re sure to find something to display your beautiful bunches in! And if you want to put a unique spin on this decor option, hang the jar vases from trees or even mount them on the wall!
NATURE
DRIED FLOWER CONFETTI
★Click here to view some stunning pre-made dried flower confetti★
Whilst the process of drying flowers can be quite time consuming, the results will be amazing! Dried flower confetti would not only be perfect for decorating dinner tables (spread down the middle like a 'table runner'), venue entrances (create a petal pathway) or scattered around the food/present tables for extra WOW factor, but would also be a cute addition to your guests' favour bags!
★Click here to view some stunning pre-made dried flower confetti★
Whilst the process of drying flowers can be quite time consuming, the results will be amazing! Dried flower confetti would not only be perfect for decorating dinner tables (spread down the middle like a 'table runner'), venue entrances (create a petal pathway) or scattered around the food/present tables for extra WOW factor, but would also be a cute addition to your guests' favour bags!
If you don't have the time to dry flowers yourself, Blossom Tree Confetti can help make your vision come to life. Check out their beautiful range of dried flower confetti by clicking here.
LEAF CONFETTI
Made from leaves in your backyard and a hole punch, this confetti is like no other! Zero waste, cheap and colourful - what more could you want?!
FLOWERS
Flowers can make the most bland room look amazing, which is the reason I absolutely LOVE using them at parties and celebrations! And with so many colours to choose from, you can't go wrong (simply create bunches using your theme palette and you have instant, beautiful decor). Click here for some great flower decor inspiration.
PLANTS
Plants are a fantastic eco-decor option. They’re not only available in a range of types and sizes, but will continue to add colour to your household for many years to come! Perfect for use indoors and outdoors, see below for ways in which plants can be incorporated into your event:
POTTED PLANTS
Clustered in corners, used as favours, placed in the centre of a table or even hung from the wall/ceiling; potted plants have so many points of use! You could even go so far as decorating with edible plants (such as parsley, basil and/or chives). As Siavash Ghazvinian says, ‘If you have a window that gets good sun, it’s worth finding a shelving unit to plant herbs that you can grow and use in various foods. [They] taste delicious, and really liven up the energy in the kitchen’. Serving meals garnished with organic produce that doubles as decor – imagine!
Handy tip: ‘The best way to go about getting potted plants with minimal impact on the environment is to join a local community garden or even a local gardening Facebook group. These groups often have someone who is giving away free pots that they no longer have use for’ – Siavash Ghazvinian
POTTED PLANTS
Clustered in corners, used as favours, placed in the centre of a table or even hung from the wall/ceiling; potted plants have so many points of use! You could even go so far as decorating with edible plants (such as parsley, basil and/or chives). As Siavash Ghazvinian says, ‘If you have a window that gets good sun, it’s worth finding a shelving unit to plant herbs that you can grow and use in various foods. [They] taste delicious, and really liven up the energy in the kitchen’. Serving meals garnished with organic produce that doubles as decor – imagine!
Handy tip: ‘The best way to go about getting potted plants with minimal impact on the environment is to join a local community garden or even a local gardening Facebook group. These groups often have someone who is giving away free pots that they no longer have use for’ – Siavash Ghazvinian
STATEMENT PIECES
Large plants, when placed appropriately, can be the highlight of a room. For instance, placing 2 to 3 bigger plants (of varying heights) together in a corner creates an instant talking point; as does placing two large plants either side of your entrance. To make these beauties truly stand out, ‘arrange in woven containers’ says Jane Clarke of Fantastic Services Australia; ‘and if you have white walls, place the plants nearby as the greenery will contrast against them’.
SMALLER PLANTS
Whilst large plants create an instant ‘wow’ factor, this doesn’t mean smaller plants should be completely overlooked. ‘Smaller plants can also be a great decor’ says Jane Clarke. ‘Arrange them in geometric forms [and] for even better results, use geometric pots’. Whilst there are a vast array of smaller plant options, Jane suggests using succulents when it comes to decorating; they’re hardy, look gorgeous and are small enough to be anything from a favour to a table centrepiece.
Large plants, when placed appropriately, can be the highlight of a room. For instance, placing 2 to 3 bigger plants (of varying heights) together in a corner creates an instant talking point; as does placing two large plants either side of your entrance. To make these beauties truly stand out, ‘arrange in woven containers’ says Jane Clarke of Fantastic Services Australia; ‘and if you have white walls, place the plants nearby as the greenery will contrast against them’.
SMALLER PLANTS
Whilst large plants create an instant ‘wow’ factor, this doesn’t mean smaller plants should be completely overlooked. ‘Smaller plants can also be a great decor’ says Jane Clarke. ‘Arrange them in geometric forms [and] for even better results, use geometric pots’. Whilst there are a vast array of smaller plant options, Jane suggests using succulents when it comes to decorating; they’re hardy, look gorgeous and are small enough to be anything from a favour to a table centrepiece.
SECONDHAND ITEMS
Garage sales, op shops and antique stores are all great places to pick up a bargain and/or unique decor items that will fit with your event theme perfectly! Think along the lines of stunning vases, large mirrors, shabby chic furniture, photo frames (great for photo booth props), baskets, etc. And once the party is over, you can either keep the item/s in your home or take back to the op shop for others to enjoy!
ARTICLE RELATED TO ECO PARTY DECORATIONS:
If you enjoyed the eco-friendly party decorations in this article, we think you will also love these beautiful eco gift ideas! Perfect as favours, prizes or presents, these options are a great way to treat your guests... without costing the earth. Click here to read more now.
If you enjoyed the eco-friendly party decorations in this article, we think you will also love these beautiful eco gift ideas! Perfect as favours, prizes or presents, these options are a great way to treat your guests... without costing the earth. Click here to read more now.
DID THESE ECO-FRIENDLY PARTY DECORATIONS INSPIRE YOU?
After going through this list, I would absolutely love to hear your thoughts. And if you have an option that’s not currently published, please share with everyone via the comments below or one of our social media platforms!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE STUNNING ECO DECOR IDEAS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: BEC OF 'FOR EVERY HEN'
A take-home goodie bag is such a wonderful way to show your guests (and bride-to-be!) just how much you appreciate them. After all, celebrating such a milestone wouldn’t be anywhere near as fun if your nearest and dearest weren’t able to attend. However, coming up with party bag ideas that are not only memorable and useful, but also eco friendly can be a real challenge.
With the inspiration provided below, though, you’ll have no problem delighting your guests with eco gifts that are not only unique and unexpected, but also zero waste and/or reusable (meaning they’ll benefit the environment as well as party goers in their everyday lives)!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
A take-home goodie bag is such a wonderful way to show your guests (and bride-to-be!) just how much you appreciate them. After all, celebrating such a milestone wouldn’t be anywhere near as fun if your nearest and dearest weren’t able to attend. However, coming up with party bag ideas that are not only memorable and useful, but also eco friendly can be a real challenge.
With the inspiration provided below, though, you’ll have no problem delighting your guests with eco gifts that are not only unique and unexpected, but also zero waste and/or reusable (meaning they’ll benefit the environment as well as party goers in their everyday lives)!
THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS WE MAY RECEIVE A COMMISSION, AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU, IF YOU MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH A LINK. PLEASE SEE OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.
LET'S START WITH THE PARTY BAGS...
ECOSILK REUSABLE SHOPPING BAGS
★Click here for Ecosilk Bag images & product details★
Available in a range of fun, bright colours (making it easy to match them to your overall event theme and/or colour palette), these gorgeous Ecosilk Bags not only look great, but are also fantastic for holding bigger gifts or lots of little goodies. And when the party's over? They will easily slot into your guests' everyday lives as they can be used for anything from grocery and clothes shopping to a stylish weekend travel bag!
★Click here for Ecosilk Bag images & product details★
Available in a range of fun, bright colours (making it easy to match them to your overall event theme and/or colour palette), these gorgeous Ecosilk Bags not only look great, but are also fantastic for holding bigger gifts or lots of little goodies. And when the party's over? They will easily slot into your guests' everyday lives as they can be used for anything from grocery and clothes shopping to a stylish weekend travel bag!
PERSONALISED BAGS BY BEAUTIFUL BOXES
Want to make things personal? Designed to be re-used, these gorgeous calico bags can be printed with any wording you desire! From names to cute sayings (such as a 'bride tribe' type slogan or a quote your hen says quote often), these will not only be appreciated when received at the actual celebration, but will also be fondly used after the event. Click here to view their entire range.
Want to make things personal? Designed to be re-used, these gorgeous calico bags can be printed with any wording you desire! From names to cute sayings (such as a 'bride tribe' type slogan or a quote your hen says quote often), these will not only be appreciated when received at the actual celebration, but will also be fondly used after the event. Click here to view their entire range.
REUSABLE ECOSILK MINI DRAWSTRING BAGS
★Click here for Ecosilk Mini Drawstring Bag images & product details★
Planning on gifting a couple of smaller items such as chocolates, jewellery or little, organic pamper products? The adorable mini bags from Ecosilk could be your ideal packaging option! They're soft to the touch, super cute, and come in the same fun, bright colours as their larger counterparts (mentioned earlier). Following the event, guests can continue to enjoy the convenience of their little bags as they're also great for securing everyday items such as keys, money, credit cards, makeup and more. In fact, mine has become a staple glove-box item - the struggle to find coins in the car is no longer real!
★Click here for Ecosilk Mini Drawstring Bag images & product details★
Planning on gifting a couple of smaller items such as chocolates, jewellery or little, organic pamper products? The adorable mini bags from Ecosilk could be your ideal packaging option! They're soft to the touch, super cute, and come in the same fun, bright colours as their larger counterparts (mentioned earlier). Following the event, guests can continue to enjoy the convenience of their little bags as they're also great for securing everyday items such as keys, money, credit cards, makeup and more. In fact, mine has become a staple glove-box item - the struggle to find coins in the car is no longer real!
IF YOU WANT TO INCLUDE A THANK-YOU CARD:
SUSTAINABLE, PLANTABLE CARDS
★Click here for a range of beautiful, seeded options★
If you would like to add a sustainable card to your gift bags or boxes, I definitely recommend taking a look at 'plantable cards' (also known as 'seeded cards' or 'seeded paper'). Unlike anything your guests have received before, these types of cards are created with recycled paper and embedded with seeds. This means recipients can read your words and then plant their cards in the garden, ready to watch their (surprise) flowers grow!
★Click here for a range of beautiful, seeded options★
If you would like to add a sustainable card to your gift bags or boxes, I definitely recommend taking a look at 'plantable cards' (also known as 'seeded cards' or 'seeded paper'). Unlike anything your guests have received before, these types of cards are created with recycled paper and embedded with seeds. This means recipients can read your words and then plant their cards in the garden, ready to watch their (surprise) flowers grow!
STUNNING DOWNLOADABLE, PRINTABLE PRODUCTS
★Click here for a beautiful range of downloadable, editable gift tags★
Bring your theme to life with editable, professionally designed tags, itineraries and/or game cards. But how do you do this in an eco-friendly way? Simple! Purchase a printable product, customise it with your party details, and then have them printed onto recycled paper or card!
★Click here for a beautiful range of downloadable, editable gift tags★
Bring your theme to life with editable, professionally designed tags, itineraries and/or game cards. But how do you do this in an eco-friendly way? Simple! Purchase a printable product, customise it with your party details, and then have them printed onto recycled paper or card!
PARTY BAG IDEAS: ECO FRIENDLY PRODUCTS TO GIFT YOUR GUESTS
BEAUTIFUL BISCUITS
Biscuits are not only delish, but also the perfect way to add a pop of colour and/or themed fun to your eco gift bags! What's more, if you put a bit of thought into the overall design (i.e. personalise with a cute message, use an image that means the world to your best friend, etc.), they will bring an unexpected and truly beautiful touch to the event.
If you're looking to treat your guests in this way, 'The Confectionist' is a business you MUST check out! Priding themselves on their 'ability to turn absolutely anything into a biscuit', your options for design are endless. Think of the possibilities!
Biscuits are not only delish, but also the perfect way to add a pop of colour and/or themed fun to your eco gift bags! What's more, if you put a bit of thought into the overall design (i.e. personalise with a cute message, use an image that means the world to your best friend, etc.), they will bring an unexpected and truly beautiful touch to the event.
If you're looking to treat your guests in this way, 'The Confectionist' is a business you MUST check out! Priding themselves on their 'ability to turn absolutely anything into a biscuit', your options for design are endless. Think of the possibilities!
HOME-BAKED GOODIES
Is there someone in the bridal party who is a bit of a pro in the kitchen? If the answer is yes, then whipping up some delicious home-baked goodies is a fantastic (and fairly cheap, depending on what you make) favour option. After all, nothing shows love quite like bread, muffins, cupcakes, cakes, cookies, slices or even salsa made from scratch!
And the best part? Home-baked goodness can easily be matched to your overall event theme. Are you hosting a pink party, for example? Use different shades of pink icing on your cupcakes. What about an angel & devil theme? Gift your guests some delicious red salsa in cute, glass jars! Partying in boho style? Add some stunning edible flowers to your treats.
Is there someone in the bridal party who is a bit of a pro in the kitchen? If the answer is yes, then whipping up some delicious home-baked goodies is a fantastic (and fairly cheap, depending on what you make) favour option. After all, nothing shows love quite like bread, muffins, cupcakes, cakes, cookies, slices or even salsa made from scratch!
And the best part? Home-baked goodness can easily be matched to your overall event theme. Are you hosting a pink party, for example? Use different shades of pink icing on your cupcakes. What about an angel & devil theme? Gift your guests some delicious red salsa in cute, glass jars! Partying in boho style? Add some stunning edible flowers to your treats.
REUSABLE STRAWS
It’s not unusual to see straws in hen party gift bags – they’re cute, a cheap filler option and handy for sipping on throughout the event. However, they are often plastic and only used for a couple of hours before going in the bin. Avoid unnecessary landfill by incorporating eco-friendly alternatives instead! But other than recyclable paper straws, what ARE your options?
It’s not unusual to see straws in hen party gift bags – they’re cute, a cheap filler option and handy for sipping on throughout the event. However, they are often plastic and only used for a couple of hours before going in the bin. Avoid unnecessary landfill by incorporating eco-friendly alternatives instead! But other than recyclable paper straws, what ARE your options?
First, there are reusable bamboo straws.
Made from natural, durable bamboo, they are ideal for all kinds of cold drinks. And whilst they can be cleaned and used again and again, should you ever need to dispose of them they are also fully biodegradable in the compost or garden! For more information, click here.
Made from natural, durable bamboo, they are ideal for all kinds of cold drinks. And whilst they can be cleaned and used again and again, should you ever need to dispose of them they are also fully biodegradable in the compost or garden! For more information, click here.
Second, there are reusable stainless steel straws.
Also fantastic for all kinds of cold drinks, these straws are made from high-quality, food-grade stainless steel. And if you ever need to dispose of them? They are fully recyclable!
Also fantastic for all kinds of cold drinks, these straws are made from high-quality, food-grade stainless steel. And if you ever need to dispose of them? They are fully recyclable!
And finally, my FAVE option - colourful stainless steel straws!
Specialising in bright and fun options (including rose gold, rainbow and gold), these straws make the perfect addition to any kind of celebration (whilst simultaneously encouraging people to change their lifestyle habits - which is just one of Tutle & Me's wonderful missions)! Click here to view the whole colourful range.
Specialising in bright and fun options (including rose gold, rainbow and gold), these straws make the perfect addition to any kind of celebration (whilst simultaneously encouraging people to change their lifestyle habits - which is just one of Tutle & Me's wonderful missions)! Click here to view the whole colourful range.
SPORKS
★Click here to learn more about Bamboo Sporks★
A cute (and convenient) gift idea that can be used throughout the party and in your guests' day-to-day lives! A 'spork' combines a spoon with a fork, making them the perfect utensil for eating at parties, work or even when out and about. Washable, anti-bacterial and compostable (when you feel it's at the end of its lifespan), bamboo sporks are a plastic-free, zero waste gift that is extremely handy!
★Click here to learn more about Bamboo Sporks★
A cute (and convenient) gift idea that can be used throughout the party and in your guests' day-to-day lives! A 'spork' combines a spoon with a fork, making them the perfect utensil for eating at parties, work or even when out and about. Washable, anti-bacterial and compostable (when you feel it's at the end of its lifespan), bamboo sporks are a plastic-free, zero waste gift that is extremely handy!
FLOWER, FRUIT & VEGETABLE SEEDS
★Click here to view gorgeous seed pack favours★
Seeds of any kind make such a beautiful gift! Not only because they continue to grow and can thus be enjoyed long after the celebration has ended, but because they’ll also bring back wonderful memories every time a guest looks at them.
★Click here to view gorgeous seed pack favours★
Seeds of any kind make such a beautiful gift! Not only because they continue to grow and can thus be enjoyed long after the celebration has ended, but because they’ll also bring back wonderful memories every time a guest looks at them.
What’s more, they can be gifted in unique ways.
Flower seeds, for example, could be given to your guests in little pots. You could even go one step further and actually plant the seeds, making them a cute little ‘Pot Luck’ favour (pun intended!). This means they won’t know the flower they’ve chosen until it has actually grown – oh the anticipation!
Fruit and vegetable seeds can be gifted in much the same way; placing the packets in eco-friendly bags or adorable little trays (that guests can go on to grow them in). Once again, there’s also the option of ‘Pot Luck’ favours, whereby you gift guests seeds that have already been planted. Choosing a tray at random and finding out what their fruit or vegetable plant is only once it’s sprouted all being part of the fun!
Flower seeds, for example, could be given to your guests in little pots. You could even go one step further and actually plant the seeds, making them a cute little ‘Pot Luck’ favour (pun intended!). This means they won’t know the flower they’ve chosen until it has actually grown – oh the anticipation!
Fruit and vegetable seeds can be gifted in much the same way; placing the packets in eco-friendly bags or adorable little trays (that guests can go on to grow them in). Once again, there’s also the option of ‘Pot Luck’ favours, whereby you gift guests seeds that have already been planted. Choosing a tray at random and finding out what their fruit or vegetable plant is only once it’s sprouted all being part of the fun!
HERBS
★Click here to view gorgeous herb pack favours★
Like flower and vegetable seeds, herbs are the gift that just keeps on giving – growing and providing flavour to meals long after the party is over. There are a few great ways to gift herbs. Adding packets to gift bags or pots (as mentioned above) is one option, as is planting herb seeds and allowing guests to pick their ‘surprise’ pot at random. Then there are organic Herb Garden Kits; already packed in stylish favour boxes, they come with everything you need to grow herbs at home!
★Click here to view gorgeous herb pack favours★
Like flower and vegetable seeds, herbs are the gift that just keeps on giving – growing and providing flavour to meals long after the party is over. There are a few great ways to gift herbs. Adding packets to gift bags or pots (as mentioned above) is one option, as is planting herb seeds and allowing guests to pick their ‘surprise’ pot at random. Then there are organic Herb Garden Kits; already packed in stylish favour boxes, they come with everything you need to grow herbs at home!
MAGIC BEANS
Who doesn't enjoy a bit of 'magic'?! These adorable beans have words or images engraved on the central pod (their seed), meaning they will display a message as they grow. And speaking of growing, once planted your magic bean plant will sprout for about a month in their tin, at which point you can transplant it to your garden (where it will probably flower!). It’ll also produce its own seeds if you pop it in the ground. Easy party bag ideas that are fun, unique and lasting!
Who doesn't enjoy a bit of 'magic'?! These adorable beans have words or images engraved on the central pod (their seed), meaning they will display a message as they grow. And speaking of growing, once planted your magic bean plant will sprout for about a month in their tin, at which point you can transplant it to your garden (where it will probably flower!). It’ll also produce its own seeds if you pop it in the ground. Easy party bag ideas that are fun, unique and lasting!
SEED BOMBS
Seed bombs are basically little balls made up of soil, seeds, clay and water that, when you're ready, will grow flowers wherever you throw them! If you love a bit of DIY, seed bombs can be made at home (see instructions here).
Seed bombs are basically little balls made up of soil, seeds, clay and water that, when you're ready, will grow flowers wherever you throw them! If you love a bit of DIY, seed bombs can be made at home (see instructions here).
However, if you don't have the time to create these little balls of life yourself, I recommend taking a look at 'The Bee Sitters'. They make and sell seed bombs that are not only affordable, but will also be loved by the bees and butterflies as much as your guests! Click here to view them now. Alternatively, if you would like to stick to the party spirit, it's definitely worth looking into these cocktail mix seed bombs. They will grow into beautiful garnishes that can be used at later events!
SUCCULENTS
★Click here for an amazing range of succulent favours★
Succulents - they are beautiful, easy to look after (always a good trait in living gifts), can be kept indoors or outdoors, and will make the favour tabel at your event look absolutely stunning! In other words, they are a gift that everyone will remember (for all the right reasons!).
★Click here for an amazing range of succulent favours★
Succulents - they are beautiful, easy to look after (always a good trait in living gifts), can be kept indoors or outdoors, and will make the favour tabel at your event look absolutely stunning! In other words, they are a gift that everyone will remember (for all the right reasons!).
NATURAL BODY SCRUBS
Add a touch of luxury to your goodie bags with some stunning, natural body scrubs. Used to cleanse and exfoliate, such a gift will leave your guests with the most beautiful, baby-soft skin – and honestly, who can say no to that?!
Add a touch of luxury to your goodie bags with some stunning, natural body scrubs. Used to cleanse and exfoliate, such a gift will leave your guests with the most beautiful, baby-soft skin – and honestly, who can say no to that?!
For those looking to indulge in this way, Freya's Nourishment has a range of gorgeous, cruelty free, natural body scrubs that are both gentle and nourishing. And whilst you probably know that body scrubs are great for, well, the body; the Coconut and Coffee Body Scrub (pictured below) is also fantastic for your lips, feet and hair!
NATURAL HANDMADE SOAP
A very affordable way to treat your friends to some pampered goodness is by including beautiful, handmade natural soaps in their party bags. Available in a range of colours, shapes, sizes and fragrances, it's a favour you can have a bit of fun with (for example, match the soap colour with your overall party colour palette for instant themed gifts!).
When it comes to natural, handmade soap, we're loving the sample packs created by 'Byanne Soaps'! Absolutely perfect for favours, each pack comes with 8 individually wrapped soaps ready to hand out at your event. To view the beautiful samples we're talking about, click here. Alternatively, check out their entire range by clicking here.
ECO FRIENDLY GIFTS FOR YOUR BRIDE-TO-BE
Whilst the above options would also make great gifts for your bride-to-be, I’ve always liked to give the guest of honour the same thing as her friends... plus a little something extra. It is her special day after all!
If you’re looking to do just that, you’ll love the section below. Dedicated to stunning, eco-gifts that do cost a bit more than those mentioned above (and therefore aren’t recommended for each and every guest, unless you have a large budget!); these products are PERFECT for treating your beautiful best friend on a day dedicated to spoiling her!
Handy Hint: click here for six eco-friendly ways you can wrap your bride-to-be's gifts.
If you’re looking to do just that, you’ll love the section below. Dedicated to stunning, eco-gifts that do cost a bit more than those mentioned above (and therefore aren’t recommended for each and every guest, unless you have a large budget!); these products are PERFECT for treating your beautiful best friend on a day dedicated to spoiling her!
Handy Hint: click here for six eco-friendly ways you can wrap your bride-to-be's gifts.
BISCUITS... WITH A TWIST!
Whilst the biscuits mentioned earlier would make an absolutely beautiful surprise for your best friend, 'The Confectionist' also offer a way to take gifting one step further... with life-size face biscuits!
Whether you have your bride-to-be's face turned into a delicious treat, or present her with a life-sized edible snack of her fiance's face ("hubby" on the hens - imagine the photos!), these gifts are '100% guaranteed to strike a giggle!'. Learn more by clicking here.
On the other hand, if a collection of themed biscuits is more your style, they also offer beautiful, hand-painted tins filled with biscuits fit for a bride! Once the contents have been devoured, your bestie will be left with a gorgeous keepsake tin that can be filled with photos, cards and other memories from her hen's party or bridal shower. Click here to learn more.
Whilst the biscuits mentioned earlier would make an absolutely beautiful surprise for your best friend, 'The Confectionist' also offer a way to take gifting one step further... with life-size face biscuits!
Whether you have your bride-to-be's face turned into a delicious treat, or present her with a life-sized edible snack of her fiance's face ("hubby" on the hens - imagine the photos!), these gifts are '100% guaranteed to strike a giggle!'. Learn more by clicking here.
On the other hand, if a collection of themed biscuits is more your style, they also offer beautiful, hand-painted tins filled with biscuits fit for a bride! Once the contents have been devoured, your bestie will be left with a gorgeous keepsake tin that can be filled with photos, cards and other memories from her hen's party or bridal shower. Click here to learn more.
HOMEMADE GIFT BASKET
Create a truly meaningful gift by asking each of your guests to bake/create something special for your bride-to-be. This could be anything from muffins, slices, scones, sauces and jams to fresh produce or a knitted rug. Alternatively, you could ask guests to purchase a small eco-gift (such as those on this list). Put them together with some home baked goodies, place them neatly in a stunning basket and present to your bride-to-be at her celebration!
CONCERT OR THEATRE TICKETS
If there is a band, singer or even play touring that your bride-to-be would give anything to see, why not purchase 2x tickets as the ultimate surprise (it's then up to her whether or not she takes her new husband or a friend)?! If you are booking a particular date, make sure it's nowhere near the wedding or honeymoon. If it's too risky purchasing actual tickets, you can always grab a voucher and let your bride-to-be know what the money is intended for!
If there is a band, singer or even play touring that your bride-to-be would give anything to see, why not purchase 2x tickets as the ultimate surprise (it's then up to her whether or not she takes her new husband or a friend)?! If you are booking a particular date, make sure it's nowhere near the wedding or honeymoon. If it's too risky purchasing actual tickets, you can always grab a voucher and let your bride-to-be know what the money is intended for!
GIFT VOUCHER
If there are any activities or experiences your bride-to-be has wanted to do FOREVER (anything from sky-diving to a pamper sesh at her local day spa) a special gift voucher could be the ideal option.
Alternatively, if your best friend's group of girls have some special talents (such as makeup artist, photographer, etc.) treat your hen to some meaningful vouchers instead. For example, have a hairdresser and photographer in the group? Why not organise a cut, colour and photoshoot for the bride and her husband/family?!
If there are any activities or experiences your bride-to-be has wanted to do FOREVER (anything from sky-diving to a pamper sesh at her local day spa) a special gift voucher could be the ideal option.
Alternatively, if your best friend's group of girls have some special talents (such as makeup artist, photographer, etc.) treat your hen to some meaningful vouchers instead. For example, have a hairdresser and photographer in the group? Why not organise a cut, colour and photoshoot for the bride and her husband/family?!
BEESWAX WRAPS
★Click here to view a beautiful range of beeswax wraps★
Who knew wraps could be so much fun?! Available in a range of funky colours and patterns, Beeswax Food Wraps make a reasonably priced, environmentally friendly gift that will become a kitchen fave! Fantastic for covering leftover dinner, large salad bowls, sandwiches, cut vegetables and more, these reusable food wraps are the perfect alternative to plastic wrap (and make your fridge look like a colourful party at the same time)!
★Click here to view a beautiful range of beeswax wraps★
Who knew wraps could be so much fun?! Available in a range of funky colours and patterns, Beeswax Food Wraps make a reasonably priced, environmentally friendly gift that will become a kitchen fave! Fantastic for covering leftover dinner, large salad bowls, sandwiches, cut vegetables and more, these reusable food wraps are the perfect alternative to plastic wrap (and make your fridge look like a colourful party at the same time)!
CUSTOM BOXES
Whether you're after a unique way to 'wrap' gifts for your bride-to-be, or a personalised way for your best friend to store those precious memories from her special day (such as photos, ticket stubs, letters and more), custom boxes are definitely something you should look into.
The ideal way to create an unforgettable gifting experience, these beautiful boxes will show your bride-to-be how much her friends love her.
Click here to learn more.
DECORATIVE WOODEN VASES
★Click here for more photos & info on these beautiful vases★
I adore anything rustic. The charm, the character, the uniqueness of each piece. And if your best friend is anything like me, she is going to LOVE this gift option! Carefully handmade in a private woodworking shop, these stunning wooden vases are one of those wonderful, versatile products products that everyone can't help but admire (trust me, they're in our house and they're a hit!).
★Click here for more photos & info on these beautiful vases★
I adore anything rustic. The charm, the character, the uniqueness of each piece. And if your best friend is anything like me, she is going to LOVE this gift option! Carefully handmade in a private woodworking shop, these stunning wooden vases are one of those wonderful, versatile products products that everyone can't help but admire (trust me, they're in our house and they're a hit!).
Handy hint: These stunning vases can be used as part of your event decor, and then presented to your bride-to-be once the celebration is over. They can then be displayed around her home - a beautiful memento from her special day that will bring a smile to her face every time she looks at them!
REUSABLE COFFEE CUP
★Click here to view a gorgeous, personalized keep cup★
For the girl who loves her coffee, tea, hot chocolate or even smoothies, there's no better gift than a reusable coffee cup that can be taken EVERYWHERE with her! Available in a range of fun, bright colours and finishes (such as glass and stainless steel), these chic alternatives to takeaway cups will fast become a staple in your bestie's day-to-day life!
★Click here to view a gorgeous, personalized keep cup★
For the girl who loves her coffee, tea, hot chocolate or even smoothies, there's no better gift than a reusable coffee cup that can be taken EVERYWHERE with her! Available in a range of fun, bright colours and finishes (such as glass and stainless steel), these chic alternatives to takeaway cups will fast become a staple in your bestie's day-to-day life!
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE
★Click here to learn more about the 'Rolla Bottle'★
Reusable water bottles are a great gift as they help reduce plastic waste and are something we can all use in our everyday lives. But what if I told you there was a bottle out there that is also perfectly geared towards hen parties? The 'Rolla Bottle'!
★Click here to learn more about the 'Rolla Bottle'★
Reusable water bottles are a great gift as they help reduce plastic waste and are something we can all use in our everyday lives. But what if I told you there was a bottle out there that is also perfectly geared towards hen parties? The 'Rolla Bottle'!
The 'Rolla Bottle' will allow your hen to enjoy water, cocktails AND coffee, the three drinks of choice when it come to partying with the girls (and the morning after)! And when they're empty and you're not using them? They can roll up to a fraction of their size and be stashed away in your handbag until the next cocktail on the go is required. Once the party is over, the Rolla Bottle will easily slot into your bride-to-be's life as it's so easy to carry around and care for!
ECO GIFT PACKS
★Click here to view a range of stunning eco gift hampers★
There is something special about receiving a gift pack that has been chosen especially for you. The anticipation, the layers, the thoughtful notes - unveiling the contents is a wonderful experience in itself. And because such a gift does bring so much joy, it's a fantastic way to spoil your best friend at her hen party, bridal shower or kitchen tea (the fact that they're also eco friendly is an added bonus!).
★Click here to view a range of stunning eco gift hampers★
There is something special about receiving a gift pack that has been chosen especially for you. The anticipation, the layers, the thoughtful notes - unveiling the contents is a wonderful experience in itself. And because such a gift does bring so much joy, it's a fantastic way to spoil your best friend at her hen party, bridal shower or kitchen tea (the fact that they're also eco friendly is an added bonus!).
GREEN THUMB GIFTS
★Click here for indoor plant gift inspiration★
With many health benefits (such as purifying the air - click here for more information), plants make a fantastic, sustainable gift option that can be enjoyed for many, many years to come! And because of this, they also make a lovely reminder of the day they were received (in this case, the pre-wedding celebrations).
★Click here for indoor plant gift inspiration★
With many health benefits (such as purifying the air - click here for more information), plants make a fantastic, sustainable gift option that can be enjoyed for many, many years to come! And because of this, they also make a lovely reminder of the day they were received (in this case, the pre-wedding celebrations).
When it comes to plants there are plenty to choose from; however I have found in the past that edible (such as lemon trees, olive trees and potted strawberries), lick (such as bamboo) and/or indoor plants are best for gifting.
NATURAL BEAUTY PRODUCTS
When it comes to your closest friend, she deserves the best of the best; and what better way to spoil her than with a selection of luxe, all-natural beauty products? From relaxing bath/foot salts (that are great for your hair and bone health, among other things) to beautiful scrubs (like those mentioned earlier), there are so many ways to make the bride-to-be feel special.
When it comes to your closest friend, she deserves the best of the best; and what better way to spoil her than with a selection of luxe, all-natural beauty products? From relaxing bath/foot salts (that are great for your hair and bone health, among other things) to beautiful scrubs (like those mentioned earlier), there are so many ways to make the bride-to-be feel special.
If you’re not sure where to begin when it comes to pamper gift ideas, I recommend, from experience, looking into the Freya’s Nourishment range. Combining luxury with living consciously, products such as the Hydrating Body Oil (designed to leave you feeling ‘thoroughly hydrated, yet smooth and supple’) and Rose Hand Scrub (a wonderful scrub that softens skin, protects against wrinkles, helps relieve eczema and more) ooze sophistication and have the added benefits of physical and emotional healing qualities. To me, these factors alone make both products a great option for any soon-to-be bride!
PAMPER PRODUCTS
Everyone deserves to be pampered - especially when there's a wedding in the equation! So why not treat your gorgeous bride-to-be with some beautiful, organic pamper products to use in the lead-up to her big day? From vegan coco-rose bath soak and organic lip balm, to pink lavender clay masks and handmade soap, your beautiful best friend will be enjoying the ultimate in relaxation in no time!
ARTICLE RELATED TO ECO GIFTS:
If you enjoyed the eco gifts inspiration in this article, we think you will also love the following low-waste party ideas! From the invitations through to the decorations, there are eco-friendly party tips for every part of your celebration. Click here to read the article now.
If you enjoyed the eco gifts inspiration in this article, we think you will also love the following low-waste party ideas! From the invitations through to the decorations, there are eco-friendly party tips for every part of your celebration. Click here to read the article now.
ENJOY YOUR ECO-FRIENDLY PARTY!
There you have it, whether it be wedding favors, party favour ideas, or hens goodie bag ideas - this list of absolutely gorgeous eco gifts are bound to make any guest's day! And remember, when putting them together you don't actually need a ridiculous amount of fillers. One beautiful item (either or its own or in a bag/box) can be more than enough!
I hope you have a fantastic time at your celebration! Please let us know how your favours turned out (or what you did at your event) via the comments section below or social media. I LOVE hearing your stories, as do the other For Every Hen community members!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)
Hot Tip: If you love a product on this list but it won't work for your gift bags, you can use it as a gorgeous eco-prize instead!
I hope you have a fantastic time at your celebration! Please let us know how your favours turned out (or what you did at your event) via the comments section below or social media. I LOVE hearing your stories, as do the other For Every Hen community members!
Much love, keep smiling - Bec x
(AUS Facebook Group | Worldwide Facebook Group | Pinterest)
Hot Tip: If you love a product on this list but it won't work for your gift bags, you can use it as a gorgeous eco-prize instead!
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE STUNNING ECO GIFT IDEAS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: STEVEN OF 'SIMPO CLEANING'
Parties are meant to be fun, so why stress over preparing for one? Here are some of our professional cleaners' tips and tricks for making your home look fab before the party (so that you don’t lose your marbles on the day of the event)!
Important: Give yourself time and split tasks over a number of days. Don’t increase pressure on yourself by leaving too much to do on the morning of the party.
Parties are meant to be fun, so why stress over preparing for one? Here are some of our professional cleaners' tips and tricks for making your home look fab before the party (so that you don’t lose your marbles on the day of the event)!
Important: Give yourself time and split tasks over a number of days. Don’t increase pressure on yourself by leaving too much to do on the morning of the party.
CLEAN & DECLUTTER
Wipe over all horizontal surfaces. Use a wet cloth in the kitchen and a dry polishing cloth for other rooms.
Make sure the whole house smells fresh. Use fragrant essential oils about an hour before guests are due.
Move unnecessary items to a space they can be retrieved from later. Clutter can include personal items such as invoices, etc. Move anything that’s likely to cause embarrassment out of sight.
Make sure the whole house smells fresh. Use fragrant essential oils about an hour before guests are due.
Move unnecessary items to a space they can be retrieved from later. Clutter can include personal items such as invoices, etc. Move anything that’s likely to cause embarrassment out of sight.
EXTERNAL AREAS
The first thing people see is the entry area, so mow the lawn and trim the edges; hose down or high pressure clean the driveway and paved areas.
Make sure you have a mat at the front door so people can wipe their feet before entering the house.
Windows are always noticed. Clean them inside and out in all the areas guests will go. You’ll be surprised how much of a difference clean windows will make to the look of your home.
Make sure you have a mat at the front door so people can wipe their feet before entering the house.
Windows are always noticed. Clean them inside and out in all the areas guests will go. You’ll be surprised how much of a difference clean windows will make to the look of your home.
BATHROOM
Give your bathroom a good scrub top to bottom. Pay special attention to the toilet seats, mirrors and glass since these are the areas which guests tend to notice the most.
You can save time on after-party cleaning if you use a pump-action hand-wash dispenser (they also look way better than a used bar of soap) while recycled single-use paper towels will avoid a lot of laundry.
Have extra toilet rolls in a prominent place. Remove anything personal from the medicine cabinet.
Very important: check the bathroom at regular intervals during the evening (any mess made by your guests reflects badly on you as the host).
You can save time on after-party cleaning if you use a pump-action hand-wash dispenser (they also look way better than a used bar of soap) while recycled single-use paper towels will avoid a lot of laundry.
Have extra toilet rolls in a prominent place. Remove anything personal from the medicine cabinet.
Very important: check the bathroom at regular intervals during the evening (any mess made by your guests reflects badly on you as the host).
DINING AREA
A table cloth is great for hiding any imperfections on an old table, and can also prevent further wear and tear.
On informal occasions, disposable biodegradable plates will reduce any after-party cleaning, but make sure there are well-identified places like a bin (making it easy to carry them to the compost for their disposal after use), as well as a separate bin for uneaten food.
For formal dining, you need to clean and polish the silverwear while making sure the dinnerw ear is spotless.
On informal occasions, disposable biodegradable plates will reduce any after-party cleaning, but make sure there are well-identified places like a bin (making it easy to carry them to the compost for their disposal after use), as well as a separate bin for uneaten food.
For formal dining, you need to clean and polish the silverwear while making sure the dinnerw ear is spotless.
CHILDREN AND ANIMALS
We love them both – but they are both capable of creating ‘disorder’ at a party. Depending on how rowdy you think the party will get, children can be part of proceedings, but sending them to a relative may be a good idea.
If they will be staying, have a designated play area with toys and games to keep them occupied and prevent them from going into areas they aren’t supposed to.
Dogs can add charm to informal dining (outdoor barbecues for example) but the safest approach would be to send Rover off to the kennel. Take a quick scan of the backyard and be sure to dispose of any poop in the backyard. You don’t want any of your guests stepping in anything they don’t want to, especially if they are going to be wearing their favourite pair of valentines.
Cats leave fur everywhere – make sure you remove it. On the day, it’s best to send them to a room of their own with their favourite toys to keep them occupied.
If they will be staying, have a designated play area with toys and games to keep them occupied and prevent them from going into areas they aren’t supposed to.
Dogs can add charm to informal dining (outdoor barbecues for example) but the safest approach would be to send Rover off to the kennel. Take a quick scan of the backyard and be sure to dispose of any poop in the backyard. You don’t want any of your guests stepping in anything they don’t want to, especially if they are going to be wearing their favourite pair of valentines.
Cats leave fur everywhere – make sure you remove it. On the day, it’s best to send them to a room of their own with their favourite toys to keep them occupied.
DISASTERS
They happen – and you need to be prepared. Have a cleaning kit consisting of stain remover, cleaning cloths, bucket, mop, dust-pan and broom, readily at hand. This will keep you calm and gracious when someone breaks one of your favourite wine glasses (stemless wine glasses may – repeat ‘may’ – result in less breakages).
LIGHTING
What does this have to do with cleaning? Well, dim the lights and you may get away with doing less. It’s a cheap trick – but like most cheap tricks – it works! If you don’t have a light dimmer switch, turn off the main lights and use strategically placed lamps and/or candles to light the party area. It creates ambience and hides any imperfections on walls, carpets, floors, etc.
CLEAN THE REFRIGERATOR
Like the bathroom, it makes a good impression to have a clean – and tidy – fridge.
Everything you need for the party should be to the front of the shelves and in the door racks where it’s easy to find and access. It’s just another way to take the stress out of being a good host.
Everything you need for the party should be to the front of the shelves and in the door racks where it’s easy to find and access. It’s just another way to take the stress out of being a good host.
HAVE FUN!
You’ve earnt it! You’ve planned, you’ve prepared, you’ve reprovisioned – most of all, you’ve CLEANED. Now it’s time to get the party started!
ARTICLE RELATED TO THESE PRE-PARTY CLEANING TIPS:
If you enjoyed the professional cleaner's tips in this article, we think you'll also find these after party cleaning tips useful! The ideas in this following article will help you limit the mess and make the after-party cleaning effortless and a lot easier in general! Click here to learn more now.
If you enjoyed the professional cleaner's tips in this article, we think you'll also find these after party cleaning tips useful! The ideas in this following article will help you limit the mess and make the after-party cleaning effortless and a lot easier in general! Click here to learn more now.
AUTHOR BIO - SIMPO CLEANING
HOME CLEANING SERVICES
With over 20 years experience in the cleaning industry, we know exactly what it takes to impress your guests regardless of whether it’s a brand new home (builders cleaning) or just a quick spring clean before a party.
With over 20 years experience in the cleaning industry, we know exactly what it takes to impress your guests regardless of whether it’s a brand new home (builders cleaning) or just a quick spring clean before a party.
Website: www.simpocleaning.com.au
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE PROFESSIONAL PARTY CLEANING TIPS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: NITESH BHATIA OF 'JUST WINES'
Cocktails are a fantastic way to get hens party festivities to a great start. Serving a special signature cocktail can also be a crowd pleaser when it comes to setting the tone and possibly breaking the ice among revellers that may not have previously met.
Champagne or sparkling white is traditionally associated with all things bride; you can put your own unique stamp on this favourite or go completely off script and serve something completely unexpected and completely delicious (of course, it goes without saying that responsible consumption is the only way to do it in style).
Here are three basic cocktail recipes designed to not only impress, but also to mark the beginning of a time to remember.
Cocktails are a fantastic way to get hens party festivities to a great start. Serving a special signature cocktail can also be a crowd pleaser when it comes to setting the tone and possibly breaking the ice among revellers that may not have previously met.
Champagne or sparkling white is traditionally associated with all things bride; you can put your own unique stamp on this favourite or go completely off script and serve something completely unexpected and completely delicious (of course, it goes without saying that responsible consumption is the only way to do it in style).
Here are three basic cocktail recipes designed to not only impress, but also to mark the beginning of a time to remember.
BELLINI
You can make this Italian cocktail using either Prosecco or the bride’s favourite Aussie sparkling wine. In Italy, they would make the nectar by marinating peaches in wine, but since a hen’s event requires a lot of work, we’ve simplified this part for you.
INGREDIENTS
White peach nectar
Prosecco/Sparkling wine
METHOD
Chill glasses
Half fill a champagne flute with peach nectar
Slowly and carefully pour in the bubbly
Stir carefully. Serve immediately.
Recommendation: Tatachilla – Those Who Wander Prosecco, NV King Valley
KING VALLEY, VICTORIA
King Valley in Victoria is a great place to source prosecco, and ideal for a weekend away. It’s three hours’ drive from Melbourne with plenty of welcoming cellar doors that are heavily influenced by Italian winemaking with a geographical setting similar to the hills in northern Italy. In addition to prosecco, other wines to try while you’re in the King Valley are sangiovese, pinot grigio, nebbiolo, dolcetto, arneis and barbera.
INGREDIENTS
White peach nectar
Prosecco/Sparkling wine
METHOD
Chill glasses
Half fill a champagne flute with peach nectar
Slowly and carefully pour in the bubbly
Stir carefully. Serve immediately.
Recommendation: Tatachilla – Those Who Wander Prosecco, NV King Valley
KING VALLEY, VICTORIA
King Valley in Victoria is a great place to source prosecco, and ideal for a weekend away. It’s three hours’ drive from Melbourne with plenty of welcoming cellar doors that are heavily influenced by Italian winemaking with a geographical setting similar to the hills in northern Italy. In addition to prosecco, other wines to try while you’re in the King Valley are sangiovese, pinot grigio, nebbiolo, dolcetto, arneis and barbera.
THE STAR GAZER
Believe it or not, this combination of chardonnay, rum and sweet juice is a nice, soft, sip-worthy surprise (make sure you serve it with ice).
INGREDIENTS (MAKES 1)
60ml chardonnay
30ml dark rum
Couple of drops of vanilla extract
15ml pineapple juice
Garnish: lime wedge
METHOD
Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice
Shake and strain into a glass
Garnish
Recommendation: Mon Tout Chardonnay, Margaret River
MARGARET RIVER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
If you’re wine touring in Western Australia, Margaret River is a must. The winemaking there has grown over the past few decades to become one of the most respected new world wine regions. In addition to chardonnay, cabernet merlot blend and Shiraz are the wines to indulge in while you’re there. The small, boutique wineries there are lovely to visit.
INGREDIENTS (MAKES 1)
60ml chardonnay
30ml dark rum
Couple of drops of vanilla extract
15ml pineapple juice
Garnish: lime wedge
METHOD
Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice
Shake and strain into a glass
Garnish
Recommendation: Mon Tout Chardonnay, Margaret River
MARGARET RIVER, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
If you’re wine touring in Western Australia, Margaret River is a must. The winemaking there has grown over the past few decades to become one of the most respected new world wine regions. In addition to chardonnay, cabernet merlot blend and Shiraz are the wines to indulge in while you’re there. The small, boutique wineries there are lovely to visit.
THE ROSÈ BOUQUET
A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.
INGREDIENTS (MAKES 2)
90ml rosè
45ml gin
20ml dry vermouth
90ml grapefruit juice
1 rosemary sprig
METHOD
Fill lowball glass ¾ full of ice and add the ingredients over the top
Stir, and serve with a grapefruit wedge and rosemary sprig
Recommendation: Bird Dog Rosè, Granite Belt
GRANITE BELT, QUEENSLAND
Yes, you read that right; Queensland has a unique, thriving little wine region three hours southwest of Brisbane. Granted, it’s Queensland, but not as you know it (it can get cold enough in winter to snow, but can also get sizzling hot in summer). It produces some of the most inimitable Shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, Verdelho and viognier to be found. There are also plenty of tours, walking trails and foods to explore for a great hen’s weekend away.
INGREDIENTS (MAKES 2)
90ml rosè
45ml gin
20ml dry vermouth
90ml grapefruit juice
1 rosemary sprig
METHOD
Fill lowball glass ¾ full of ice and add the ingredients over the top
Stir, and serve with a grapefruit wedge and rosemary sprig
Recommendation: Bird Dog Rosè, Granite Belt
GRANITE BELT, QUEENSLAND
Yes, you read that right; Queensland has a unique, thriving little wine region three hours southwest of Brisbane. Granted, it’s Queensland, but not as you know it (it can get cold enough in winter to snow, but can also get sizzling hot in summer). It produces some of the most inimitable Shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, Verdelho and viognier to be found. There are also plenty of tours, walking trails and foods to explore for a great hen’s weekend away.
ARTICLE RELATED TO PARTY COCKTAIL RECIPES:
If you enjoyed the basic cocktail recipes in this article, we think you will also enjoy the following DIY grazing platter article (I mean, food is the perfect pairing for any sort of beverage... alcoholic or not!). To learn how to create 3 amazing platters, click here.
If you enjoyed the basic cocktail recipes in this article, we think you will also enjoy the following DIY grazing platter article (I mean, food is the perfect pairing for any sort of beverage... alcoholic or not!). To learn how to create 3 amazing platters, click here.
AUTHOR BIO - JUST WINES
ONLINE WINE RETAILER
Nitesh Bhatia is the founder and CEO of Just Wines, Australia's second largest wine retailer dedicated to supporting Australian and New Zealand winemakers.
Just Wines was founded in 2012 with a vision to revolutionise the online wine industry. Since then Just Wines has become the second largest online wine retailer in Australia based on product range – offering up to 6,000 wines from over 1,000 winemakers from Australia and New Zealand.
Nitesh Bhatia is the founder and CEO of Just Wines, Australia's second largest wine retailer dedicated to supporting Australian and New Zealand winemakers.
Just Wines was founded in 2012 with a vision to revolutionise the online wine industry. Since then Just Wines has become the second largest online wine retailer in Australia based on product range – offering up to 6,000 wines from over 1,000 winemakers from Australia and New Zealand.
Website: www.justwines.com.au
Socials: Facebook | Instagram
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE DELICIOUS, BASIC COCKTAIL RECIPES - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
AUTHOR: NATALIE CHURCHILL OF 'ONLY DREAM DRESSES'
Trends come and go; and I hope that one trend here to stay is food trucks. They have really made their mark on Sunday sessions in the park and at weddings... but what about food trucks for parties (such as your hens)?
Now I’m not necessarily saying that your hens party has to be one long, food truck festival with every course served from a different mobile food van. However, if you wanted to go that way you certainly could; the sheer range and incredible quality of food available in truck form will blow your mind and can fulfil every one of your guests’ needs.
Don’t conjure up images of the kebab van next to your favourite nightclub, or the hot jam donut van at the annual Easter show, though. Food trucks have come a very long way since these days! They are simply stunning; gorgeous replicas or refurbishments of vintage trucks and caravans. They not only serve wonderful food and drink, they will also make amazing backdrops for those selfies or girly snaps.
Interested?
Here are 9 awesome ways you can add a touch of ‘Food Truck’ to your hens party!
Trends come and go; and I hope that one trend here to stay is food trucks. They have really made their mark on Sunday sessions in the park and at weddings... but what about food trucks for parties (such as your hens)?
Now I’m not necessarily saying that your hens party has to be one long, food truck festival with every course served from a different mobile food van. However, if you wanted to go that way you certainly could; the sheer range and incredible quality of food available in truck form will blow your mind and can fulfil every one of your guests’ needs.
Don’t conjure up images of the kebab van next to your favourite nightclub, or the hot jam donut van at the annual Easter show, though. Food trucks have come a very long way since these days! They are simply stunning; gorgeous replicas or refurbishments of vintage trucks and caravans. They not only serve wonderful food and drink, they will also make amazing backdrops for those selfies or girly snaps.
Interested?
Here are 9 awesome ways you can add a touch of ‘Food Truck’ to your hens party!
ONE: BEVERAGES
Mobile bars and drink vendors are available in every state in Australia, with an entire range of drinks to choose from. You can get sweet little vans which dispense prosecco or beer from taps on the side (meaning guests can self-serve), or caravans completely reborn as full-service bars with staff.
There are even VW Combis which have come back to life as mobile kegs. Some smaller ones can be booked to serve just a couple of cocktail options (for example, espresso martinis) whilst others offer everything a full-service bar would.
There are even VW Combis which have come back to life as mobile kegs. Some smaller ones can be booked to serve just a couple of cocktail options (for example, espresso martinis) whilst others offer everything a full-service bar would.
TWO: CANAPÉS
If you are looking for some nibbles and finger food to please your guests, there are so many options here too. From fine street food to freshly shucked oysters (and everything in between!); if you can dream it up, there is a food cart or truck that will serve it directly to you.
THREE: DURING THE AFTERNOON
Perfect for a hens party on the beach or in a park, hire a mobile food truck to provide afternoon tea to your guests. You could even hire one with a full high tea service, including vintage bone china and cupcake tiers.
Pair this with lawn games like bocce and croquet for a relaxed vibe to a very special afternoon of fun.
Pair this with lawn games like bocce and croquet for a relaxed vibe to a very special afternoon of fun.
FOUR: WHEN IT'S HOT
For the hot days there are so many selections for your food truck hens party, just perfect to cool everyone down. From alcoholic popsicles and slushies to homemade ice-cream and proper Italian gelati; when the Aussie summer sun hits its peak, you will have all of your guests looked after.
Photo and van supplied by: Vintage scoops
FIVE: WHEN YOU NEED CAFFEINE
Even the traditional coffee cart has had a sprucing up. There are some beautiful little vintage carts that you can hire to serve coffee and hot chocolate to your guests when the cool night air has set in. You could even get one to sell espresso martinis as well and cover all your bases at once!
SIX: FOR MAINS
Considering going out for dinner? Why not cater your whole main meal with a next level travelling restaurant?!
Incredible chefs are throwing off the shackles of fixed venues and embracing the life on the open road, so there is no need to have substandard fare wherever you are.
Bring in spit-roast, Greek, Indian, Thai, pizza, modern Australian or a fusion of them all (maybe not all of them!). You don’t need to supply a kitchen, and the clean-up is all sorted.
Incredible chefs are throwing off the shackles of fixed venues and embracing the life on the open road, so there is no need to have substandard fare wherever you are.
Bring in spit-roast, Greek, Indian, Thai, pizza, modern Australian or a fusion of them all (maybe not all of them!). You don’t need to supply a kitchen, and the clean-up is all sorted.
Photo and van supplied by: Pizza Wagon
SEVEN: FOR DESSERT
When your guests need something sweet, call a dessert food truck to roll up at your party as sweets is one of the things that food trucks do best. Do you want donuts, crème Brule, waffles, pancakes, more ice-cream, cupcakes, or ice-cream served in donut cones? Just click your fingers because you can get all of this and more!
EIGHT: FOR LATE NIGHT MUNCHIES
When it’s getting later in the night and your guests may have had one too many, this is the ideal time to bring in some food truck help. How many hens parties have you been to where you got super hungry halfway through the night?
Bring in burgers or sliders, tacos, wood-fired pizzas, hot dogs or gourmet sausages, or even the good old toasted jaffle! The girls will never appreciate a food truck quite so much as they will at this moment.
Bring in burgers or sliders, tacos, wood-fired pizzas, hot dogs or gourmet sausages, or even the good old toasted jaffle! The girls will never appreciate a food truck quite so much as they will at this moment.
NINE: FOR THE MORNING AFTER
Hens parties are renown for creating sore heads, so the girls may wake up craving that hang-over breakfast. Why not host a brunch at home or in a lovely park nearby, and hire a coffee cart, pancake van, breakfast burgers, toasted sandwiches and more? There is no reason why the party has to end after all!
Wow, if this blog hasn’t made you hungry (or thirsty!) then I don’t know what would. I might just go and price a prosecco van to come by my house on the weekend... just because.
ARTICLE RELATED TO FOOD TRUCK PARTIES:
If you enjoyed the food truck party inspiration in this article, we think you will also love the drink station ideas below (the perfect way to compliment a food truck, really)! From DIY hot chocolate bars right through to alcoholic lemonade stands, there is a little something for everyone when it comes to the beverages being served! Click here to learn more.
If you enjoyed the food truck party inspiration in this article, we think you will also love the drink station ideas below (the perfect way to compliment a food truck, really)! From DIY hot chocolate bars right through to alcoholic lemonade stands, there is a little something for everyone when it comes to the beverages being served! Click here to learn more.
AUTHOR BIO - ONLY DREAM DRESSES
AUSTRALIA-WIDE MARKETPLACE FOR PRE-LOVED WEDDING DRESSES
Natalie Churchill is the founder and owner of Only Dream Dresses, an Australian-wide online marketplace for preloved wedding dresses. Like many brides, Natalie experienced the desire to wear a beautiful designer gown on her wedding day, but didn’t want to spend the earth in doing so. So the idea of purchasing or hiring a preloved wedding dress was formed. Only Dream Dresses specialises in creating a service that’s personal, cost effective and efficient.
Natalie Churchill is the founder and owner of Only Dream Dresses, an Australian-wide online marketplace for preloved wedding dresses. Like many brides, Natalie experienced the desire to wear a beautiful designer gown on her wedding day, but didn’t want to spend the earth in doing so. So the idea of purchasing or hiring a preloved wedding dress was formed. Only Dream Dresses specialises in creating a service that’s personal, cost effective and efficient.
Website: www.onlydreamdresses.com/subscribe
Socials: Facebook | Instagram
P.S. THE BELOW IMAGE IS PERFECT FOR PINTEREST... GO ON & SHARE THESE FUN FOOD TRUCKS FOR PARTIES IDEAS - YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! :-)
