How to arrange a hen party on a budget

We’ve all had those emails. Those cheery and well-meaning communications from a chief bridesmaid who has organised a fun-filled weekend in an exotic location, all with a price tag that would just about cover your rent. Feeling priced out of a close friend’s hen is a common occurrence and having to stretch your credit card to breaking point to cover the cost of a party can set the wrong tone well before you arrive.

If you’re arranging your own hen or you’re trying to find a more budget friendly options for one of your favourite brides to be, don’t despair. It’s possible to arrange an economical hen that is every bit as much fun as a lavish one. Read on for hen party ideas that won’t blow your budget.

Keep it local

There seems to be an expectation that unless a hen takes place outside of your home town it doesn’t really count as a hen. This just isn’t true! Travelling to somewhere new is a great adventure but there are definite advantages to staying close to home. Not only will you save a huge chunk of the budget that you would otherwise blow on hotels and travel, it means that you know all the best spots to go for drinks, food, and dancing. Treat the hen at her favourite restaurant and fill the day with local activities you know she will love.

Make it a house party

You can create the ultimate hen party without even opening your front door. Put together a knockout playlist, go wild with decorations and transform your home into the ultimate venue. Here no one minds if you dance in bare feet, sing like a loon or end up falling asleep in the bath. You can customise this idea with a DIY spa area, karaoke room, and cocktail bar to make your hen feel truly spoilt on her big night.

Keep a tight guest list

When did 30 guests become better than 10? The hen industry has mushroomed in recent years and the perception is often that bigger is better. The truth is more people simply increases your per head spend so keep it to the really special ladies in your hen’s life and make everything more wallet friendly. It means the soon to be bride will spend more time interacting with those people that really matter and it gives you greater flexibility on venue and activities.

DIY where you can

This is where knowing the right people can make all the difference to your budget. Know a makeup artist or masseuse? Get them to provide their services at a reduced cost or for free. Have a friend who is particularly crafty? Ask them to lead a making session. Pool your resources as a group to make a truly personal hen that she won’t forget. This also rings true when it comes to invitations, costumes, props or games, make them yourself (if you have time) to save a little of your budget.

Make it one night only

A hen do doesn’t have to span a whole weekend. Keeping activities to one day or one evening can drop the cost by a third or more. Plus, this reduces the risk of people getting bored, grumpy, arguing or generally causing a headache for the organiser. Make that single day or night as special as you can to ramp up the impact of your event whilst saving costs.

Hire an expert

The thought of using a hen party company may have you sweating at the prospect of the final bill but it can be an economical option if done smartly. Agree on a budget beforehand with all the attendees and provide this to the company alongside a wish list of things the hen would love. Their relationship with suppliers and accommodation providers often means they can negotiate a better deal than you would get directly and they know where to trim your ideas to get the most within your budget.

A successful hen party doesn’t have to cost the earth. Be open and honest with your group of girls and agree on a budget that everyone feels comfortable with. As long as the hen is having a great time it doesn’t matter where you are or what you are doing. Think imaginatively and step outside of the box to create an event everyone will remember!