Planning a hen party can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the whole process much easier. Here's your complete checklist to ensure nothing gets forgotten. Complement this with our guides on splitting costs and alternative activities.
6-8 Months Before
Initial Planning
- Talk to the bride about her vision (or surprise her, if that's the plan)
- Confirm the guest list
- Set a realistic budget - see our budgeting guide
- Choose dates (send out a poll to find what works for most people)
- Decide on destination - compare Bath vs Brighton or browse all destinations
Accommodation
- Research properties that fit your group size and budget
- Check availability for your preferred dates
- Read reviews carefully
- Book the house and pay deposit - understand our booking process
- Add booking protection/cancellation insurance if offered - check booking terms
4-6 Months Before
Activities & Experiences
- Research and book activities - explore our experiences page
- Cocktail classes, spa treatments, life drawing
- Reserve group dining for Saturday night or book a private chef
- Look into hen party packages or add-ons
- Book any transport needed (minibus, taxi for activities)
Money Management
- Create a detailed budget breakdown - full guide on cost splitting
- Set up a group payment system (Splitwise, Monzo, etc.)
- Collect initial deposits from guests
- Keep receipts for everything
2-3 Months Before
Finalise Details
- Confirm final guest numbers
- Collect remaining payments from everyone
- Make final payment on accommodation - review payment schedule
- Confirm all activity bookings
- Sort room allocations (who's sharing with who)
Extras & Decorations
- Order personalised items (sashes, t-shirts if wanted)
- Plan decorations for the house - great for houses with games rooms
- Organise party games or activities for downtime
- Create playlist for the house
1 Month Before
Communication
- Send out detailed itinerary to all guests
- Include house address and access details
- Share packing list suggestions
- Confirm dietary requirements for group meals
- Set up group chat if not already done
Shopping & Supplies
- Order balloons, banners, photo props
- Buy party supplies (games, decorations)
- Get hen party accessories (sashes, badges)
- Sort welcome gifts or survival kits if doing them
1 Week Before
Final Preparations
- Reconfirm all bookings (accommodation, activities, restaurants)
- Check weather forecast
- Plan food shop or pre-order delivery to the house
- Assign any roles (who's doing breakfast, who's decorating)
- Pack decorations and supplies
Practical Tasks
- Print any tickets or confirmations needed
- Create emergency contact list
- Check house rules and note check-in/check-out times - review house rules
- Prepare games and activities for the house
Day Before
- Do main food shop or confirm delivery
- Pack personal items
- Charge cameras, phones, speakers
- Download offline playlists
- Prep any games or activities that need setup
- Have cash ready for taxis, tips, etc.
On Arrival
- Check house thoroughly (note any damage to avoid deposit issues)
- Put up decorations
- Assign rooms
- Do welcome drinks
- Brief everyone on the schedule and activities planned
- Start making memories!
Before Leaving
- Clean the house to required standard
- Check for any damage that needs reporting
- Take down decorations
- Do final sweep for forgotten items
- Take final group photos
- Leave house secure and locked
After the Weekend
- Share photos with the group
- Settle any outstanding expenses
- Send thank you message to hosts/venues if appropriate
- Leave reviews for the property and any suppliers
- Create photo album or gift for the bride
Top Tips
- Start early - Popular houses and weekends book up fast. Browse available properties now.
- Overcommunicate - Keep everyone in the loop about costs and plans
- Build in downtime - Don't overschedule every minute. Houses with hot tubs are perfect for relaxing.
- Have backup plans - Weather, cancellations, or people running late
- Designate a co-organiser - Don't try to do everything solo
- Remember the bride - This is about her, so include what she'd love
Planning a hen party takes organisation, but following this checklist means you won't miss anything important. The key is starting early and keeping track of everything in one place. Your future self (and the bride) will thank you. Need inspiration? Read our guide to 10 alternative hen party ideas. Deciding between cities? Check our Bath vs Brighton comparison. Ready to book? Learn how it works, explore our experiences, or get in touch for personalised help.
