10 Tips for Planning a Hen Party She’ll Never Forget
Being in charge of planning a hen party is a big honour – but it can also feel overwhelming. You want it to be stylish, memorable, and most importantly, a true celebration of the bride-to-be. Whether you’re planning a big weekend away or a one-night gathering, these 10 tips will help you create a hen party that’s packed with laughter, luxury, and those once-in-a-lifetime memories.
Here’s your guide to planning a hen party that’s as special as she is:
1. Plan with Personality
The best hen parties are the ones that feel personal from the start. Take some time to think about the bride’s unique style, sense of humour, and what will truly make her feel celebrated. Planning invites, games, itineraries and little touches around a theme she loves will set the tone for an unforgettable day.
Tip: Personal touches don’t have to come with a hefty price tag—free tools like Canva and FreePrints make it easy to create stylish, thoughtful details without the cost.
2. Set the Scene with a Warm Welcome
First impressions matter. Create an arrival that feels celebratory and personal, from chilled prosecco ready to pour to a playlist of her favourite songs. Give everyone a moment to settle in, chat, and get excited for what’s to come.
At Marian Resort & Spa, a bottle of prosecco is included with every Hen Party Package, so the celebrations start from the moment you arrive.
3. Choose a Relaxing Base for Your Stay
The best hen parties feel like a little retreat from real life. Choose a cosy, beautiful space where everyone can relax – somewhere with comfy seating, stylish surroundings, and enough space for games, pampering, and plenty of catch-ups.
Our unique lodges and boutique hotel rooms at Marian offer the perfect backdrop – from hot tubs to fluffy robes, it’s all designed for maximum comfort and fun.
4. Pamper the Bride (and Yourselves!)
Before the celebrations hit full swing, carve out time for relaxation. A spa moment is the ultimate luxury – a chance for the bride to feel pampered and for everyone to enjoy a breath of calm before the excitement of the evening ahead.
At Marian, every guest enjoys a 30-minute treatment using TRIBE517’s handcrafted spa products – think soothing, rejuvenating therapies that will leave everyone glowing.
5. Plan One Standout Meal
Don’t leave dinner to chance. Plan ahead and book somewhere special that feels like an event in itself – no stress, no compromises. Choose a venue that’s big enough for your group and delivers food worth celebrating.
VIEW Restaurant at Marian offers two delicious courses as part of our Hen Party Package – locally inspired dishes served with beautiful countryside views.
6. Add a Surprise Activity
A surprise twist keeps the energy high and creates unforgettable memories. Think of something interactive that everyone can enjoy together, like a cocktail-making class, a mini awards ceremony, or a themed quiz about the bride.
Tip: Our Cocktail Making Experience at Marian is the perfect add-on – you’ll learn to shake, stir, and sip your way through the evening with expert guidance and plenty of laughs.
7. Keep the Schedule Flexible
While it’s tempting to pack the itinerary, remember: less is often more. Build in downtime between activities so there’s room for spontaneous fun, heartfelt conversations, and those magical moments that can’t be planned.
Tip: A relaxed pace also helps keep the vibe stress-free and elegant – exactly what you want for a stylish celebration.
8. Personalise the Details
It’s the little things that turn a good hen party into a great one. Think custom playlists, personalised goody bags, a scrapbook of memories, printed Polaroid-style photos, or a handwritten note to each guest. These personal touches show thought and care, and they’ll mean the world to the bride.
Tip: Have everyone contribute a song to the party playlist ahead of time – it’s a simple way to make everyone feel part of the celebration and guarantees a soundtrack full of good vibes.
9. Capture the Moments
Photos are a must – but so is being in the moment. Instead of everyone glued to their phones, try scattering a few disposable film cameras around the space. They’re fun, nostalgic, and create that dreamy, vintage photo feel that’s full of heart and laughter. You’ll get authentic, candid shots that feel like real memories – not just social posts.
With the elegant backdrops at Marian Resort & Spa, from the boutique rooms to the serene gardens, every shot feels frame-worthy. Less screens, more connection.
10. End on a High Note
Plan a final moment that brings everyone together, whether it’s raising a final toast, handing out small keepsakes, or a mini ‘thank you’ speech from the bride. Leaving everyone on a high ensures the memories of the day – and the love behind it – last long after the party ends.
A nightcap back at your lodge or a farewell brunch the next morning are perfect ways to close a beautiful celebration at Marian.
