Wedding Expo Magazine- Summer/Fall 2003  

 

 

 
     
 

Afraid your single send-off might wind up an embarrassing sleaze fest?  If you're like most brides-to-be, you're a bit concerned as to what your gal pals have in store for you on your last night out.

     Times are changing and so is the way we celebrate our bachelorette parties.  At one time it was simply the maid of honor who planned the bawdy bash, but such tradition is so old veil. Savvy brides are becoming more involved with organizing decadent details; throwing their soiree solo or co-hosting with a bridesmaid, duke of honor (best guy friend), or even their cool mom.  The hippest bachelorettes are throwing more sophisticated and sizzling shindigs than ever before complete with professional planning help, catering, decor design and a cavalcade of variety entertainers.  We've collected some of these trendsetting tips and ideas to share with you.

Stylizing
Choosing a fun-fabulous theme and giving your party a name will provide the foundation for other unique and creative elements.  Sometimes the theme is a helpful gift suggestion or to highlight the activities for the night. Think of a title that will compliment the bride's name: Taking on Tinsel Town with Tina, Sylvia's Sizzling Night of Salsa, and Harem Delights Honoring Debbie.   

Inviting
Along with your kitschy invite, include a keepsake item which hints to your naughty night of playfulness: personalized garters, body glitter, or mock show tickets to gain entrance to the splendid affair. You can also direct guests to visit a website where they can post suggestions on keeping the groom happy.

Costuming
Stylish bridal entourages rarely go for the store bought garb like inflatable headwear.  Consider these alternatives: customizing a party veil with tasteful charms, matching baby-tees and feathered wings, Victorian hats with Ostrich boas, feminine parasols with trailing ribbons, or a flamboyant cape that all the girls can sign.  A good rule of thumb is, if you won't wear it, we shouldn't make our model bride either.  

One Stop Entertaining
Having your event at one location, home or party room, may be as extravagant as taking on a Moulin Rouge theme with fanciful drapery, shirtless hunks serving canapés, and a cabaret show with fire painters. If your budget is a concern, you may want a simpler form of entertainment: flamenco or belly dance instruction, pamper treatments (manicurists, massage therapists), seminars (chefs, sassy marital expert), or a variety performer (Austin Powers look-a-likes, handwriting analysis).   

Road Parties
Nights on the town for our daring darlings have taken the VIP lane to extravagant.  Traveling via custom limos, Bride's Night Out's comedian hosts bring divas on a sassy escapade of game playing with prizes at all stops. Los Angeles belles get around in a groovy party bus complete with a disco ball and furry bathroom.  Travelers take advantage of the open bar and convenient bathroom by inviting the entertainers onboard for a private show.  Those with money to spare charter a private jet to their favorite sinful city like New Orleans and Las Vegas.

Big Bridal Bashes
Don't be surprised by a pre-wedding event that has up to 200 partygoers.  Girlfriends tying the knot around the same time are sharing their celebrations together. The vow enchanted vixen with a lot of family and friends are combining their bachelorette and bridal showers into one sensational night with all ages to enjoy.  Festivities are humorously emceed by a boisterous buddy or entertainer that can give a personalized "This was your life" tribute complete with videos, surprise guest appearances, and crowd pleasing party games.

Check Please
Everyone seems to be pitching in to make the occasion extra special including all attendees, the mother of the bride and even the guest of honor.  It's not surprising since today's woman creates her own wedding traditions that work best for her.

Bachelorette party planner Pamela Yager has produced events for Jessica Simpson, VH1's Ball Before the Chain, Brides International and is a member of the Association of Wedding Professionals International, www.bridesnightout.com.