But with so many details to consider — like budgets, locations, and group dynamics — it can quickly feel overwhelming without a clear plan. Whether you're the maid of honor, a wedding bestie, or even the bride herself organizing a chill weekend, we're sharing our top tips for planning a bachelorette party that are thoughtful, fun, and stress-free for everyone involved.
Step 1: Decide Who's Hosting (and Who Pays for What)
Traditionally, the maid of honor and bridesmaids host and cover the cost of the bachelorette party, especially if it’s a one-night local celebration. But in modern weddings, it's perfectly acceptable for everyone, including the bride, to split costs depending on what’s being planned, particularly if it's destination.Even though it might be uncomfortable, have an early candid conversation with everyone involved about money. Everyone's financial situation is different, so consider all angles, particularly in our current economic climate. If someone isn't able to contribute financially and it's really important to the bride that they are present, then communicate alternative ideas. We especially love these cost-cutting tips for bach parties from our friends at Budget Savvy Bride and recommend your checking those out if you're planning something on a tighter budget.
Group planning isn't easy, but we promise that getting the awkward money talks out of the way at the beginning will help pave the way for an amazing time together. A memorable celebration can be done at any budget!
Common Costs to Consider
• Accommodations (for destination parties)• Food and drinks
• Transportation
• Group activities (like spa days, crafts, concerts, or wine tastings)
• Decor, party favors, and gifts
Pro Tip: Apps like Splitwise or Venmo (in the U.S.) and Settle Up (in the UK) can help keep expenses organized and assist with split group payments.
Step 2: Pick a Theme (It Sets the Mood!)
A theme isn’t just about aesthetics — it helps shape the tone, dress code, and activity ideas. Even a non-theme is a theme, especially if you just want to keep it simple with a certain color palette! Whether the bride-to-be is all about low-key elegance or full-on glam, choosing a theme will bring the celebration to life and make planning easier.Popular Bachelorette Party Themes
• Coastal Cowgirl: Think Nashville meets beachy vibes.• Mamma Mia: It's giving bright blue and white Mediterranean vibes!
• Pajamas & Prosecco: For the ultimate cozy night in.
• Last Rodeo: Country charm meets girly pop and a ton of cow print.
• Coquettecore: Sweet, ultra feminine, and lots of ribbon bows (or the more bold theme sister Barbiecore: Hot pink, sunshine, and retro)
• Final Fiesta: A colorful, spicy celebration filled with all of the best Mexican-inspired food and drink.
Pro Tip: Match the theme to the bride’s personality and interests — not what’s trending online. We all love pretty and on point themes, but if it doesn't reflect the bride's actual tastes, then the meaningful part of the celebration falls flat. Going authentic is always in style.
Step 3: Choose the Location
From staycations to international getaways, the location will determine the party's duration, budget, and overall vibe. Take also into consideration travel restrictions, everyone's mobility and health, and just the logistics of getting there.Questions to Ask
• Does the bride want to travel or stay local?• Is everyone comfortable with flying or long drives?
• Are there group-friendly accommodations available?
• Is it accessible for all mobility needs?
• Are local food options friendly for food allergies or dietary restrictions?
Popular Destination Ideas
City Adventures: San Juan (Puerto Rico), New Orleans, London, AmsterdamBeach Escapes: Hawaii, Jamaica, Outer Banks, Isles of Scilly
Desert Destinations: Cabo San Lucas, Scottsdale (Arizona), Palm Springs, Marrakech
Nature Retreats: Lake District, The Catskills, Reykjavik, Aspen
At-Home Vibes: Local AirBnb, backyard pool party, someone's family cabin
Step 4: Plan Activities Everyone Will Love
The best bachelorette parties include a mix of planned events, free time, and downtime. Think outside the box and personalize the itinerary to include things the bride loves and the realistic needs of the group.Fun Activity Ideas
• Private yoga class or spa treatments• Themed photo shoots
• DIY craft session (like making personalized bum bags or bachelorette party t-shirts)
• Cocktail-making classes
• Scenic brunch or picnic
Pro Tip: Always leave room for flexibility — sometimes the best moments are unplanned!
Step 5: Don’t Forget the Little Details
Small touches go a long way. Think personalized drinkware, matching pajamas, or a keepsake guest book where everyone can write a note to the bride. This is where you gather your creative pals who are known for their craft supply stash! If traveling, consider what can be packed into a suitcase without getting damaged.Basic Checklist Before The Party
□ Confirm RSVPs□ Share the itinerary with the group
□ Make a packing list for any overnight trips
□ Prep emergency kits (e.g., pain relievers, first aid essentials, phone chargers, et cetera)
□ Bring decorations or photo props to level up your space
□ Double-check all reservations (e.g., accommodations, dinner, activities, and/or transport)
□ Create a shared photo album link for everyone to upload pictures
□ Prep snacks and drinks for downtime or late-night munchies
□ Bring a printed or digital copy of emergency contacts and local info (especially for destination parties)
□ Arrange transportation or a designated driver if alcohol is involved
Pro Tip: If the bride is into it, be sure to get some bride-themed accessories for her to wear! Things like hats, headbands, costume veils, and even swimwear can make it extra special.
Let's Go Girls!
Planning a bachelorette party doesn’t have to be complicated. It just takes a bit of communication, creativity, and thoughtful prep. Whether it's a wild night out or a relaxing weekend away, the best parties are the ones that reflect the bride and her friendships. Go on now — you’re ready to start planning that bach bash to remember!Get Inspired by other Bach Party Inspiration on Tidewater and Tulle
• DIY Bach Party Slap Bracelets• Embrace Your Inner Joie de Vivre at Camp Château in France
• Weekend Getaway to NYC
PHOTO CREDITS
Photography by Chelsea Barton from this bachelorette party waist bags DIY tutorial on Tidewater and Tulle.
Editor's Note: Specially curated by us, the above product links are partner-connected and purchasing through these links means we get a small commission from those brands that helps support this website. You can find our full affiliate disclosure policy here on Tidewater and Tulle.
