|
Alternative Hen and Stag Ideas Traditionally speaking, the hen and stag parties are considered to be the bride and groom’s last night of freedom. Here are a few ideas to get you in the party mood.
FOR THE GIRLS...
The theme: Glitter and Sparkle
The brief: Put on your party gear, its time to hit the town. Decide on a plan of action in advance. Contact your favourite nightclub to find out whether they have a VIP area which can be booked in advance or a guest list to jump the queue. Order a limo to take you to your chosen destination, get the champagne on ice and gather your mates together for a night on the town.
Where to go: The hippest new nightclub in town
What to wear: A night out like this deserves a new party frock. Stick with the theme and make sure that it's got a bit of sparkle!
What to drink: Bellini's - the ultimate champagne cocktail.
What to bring: Your best dancing shoes and tonnes of lip-gloss.
The theme: Girls Night In
The brief: Invite all of your mates and tell them to get ready for a weekend of girly giggles and games. Bring your favourite party games - Twisters always a winner - and a Play Station with your favourite version of Sing-Star... oh and don't forget your IPOD!
Where to go: The ultimate pyjama party needs a secluded location. Hire a cottage away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
What to wear: Your pyjamas of course!
What to drink: Homemade cocktails - organise a kitty in advance or get everyone to bring a bottle. Buy a recipe book and get to work creating your very own masterpieces.
What to bring: Your best singing voice, a camera and your slippers.
The theme: A Night at the Theatre
The brief: If the bright lights of the West End appeal to you, then why not plan a weekend away and escape to London for a dramatic night on the town? Book dinner and a box at a show for you and your friends and enjoy a sophisticated night's entertainment.
Where to go: Choose a modern favourite like Mamma Mia or Billy Elliot, or a classic tale like Phantom of the Opera or Les Miserables.
What to wear: Your best evening frock - this is the perfect excuse to get your glad rags on!
What to drink: Cosmopolitans - every city girl's favourite accessory
What to bring: Your most glamorous attire and your closest pals
The theme: Heavenly Creatures
The brief: Unwind with a luxury spa break, just you and the girls. Forget about the wedding plans for a few days and catch up on some well deserved R&R. Turn off your phone, step away from the stress and book in for some pampering treatments.
Where to go: There are loads of terrific spas in Ireland but for a truly indulgent break, why not venture a little further away? Thailand or India perhaps?
What to wear: Your bikini; in between treatments, you'll be lounging in the pool, so now's the time to splash out on a new designer cossie.
What to drink: This weekend is all about relaxing and looking after yourself but if a booze-free hen weekend is out of the question then why not choose a fruit based cocktail like a daiquiri. Tasty and practically virtuous.
What to bring: Your fiancés credit card and his permission for its unlimited usage - you're worth it after all.
AND THE BOYS... The theme: It's Tee Time
The brief: Prepare the guys for the ultimate boys day out with a golfing weekend for you and your mates. Enjoy a relaxing day on the green, followed by some drinks in the club.
Where to go: Golf lovers are spoilt for choice of where to play in Ireland. One of the most prestigious courses in the country is the K-Club. Home to the 2006 Ryder Club, it's located 45 minutes from Dublin City Centre and is great location for a guys getaway break.
What to wear: Your most stylish plus fours
What to drink: A fine glass of cognac
What to bring: Your golf clubs...and an umbrella, in case it rains
The theme: That's Amore
The brief: If it's something a little bit different you are looking for then why not hire a villa in Italy. Pick a few close friends and plan a week of sun, good food and wine tasting.
 Where to go: Hire a villa in Tuscany, preferably one with a pool and a sea view. Visit www.luxuryretreats.com for luxury villas for suggestions on where to stay.
What to wear: Your shorts and sunglasses
What to drink: Pick up a few bottles of Pinot Grigio What to bring: Your passport
The theme: Wight on Time
The brief: If the wedding plans have you desperately looking to escape, why not head for a break on the high seas. Make the most of your time away by chartering a boat during Cowes week. The bars come alive at night with international visitors travelling to the island from across the world to take part for the competition.
Where to go: Head to the Isle of White with the lads.
What to wear: Your best wet weather gear.
What to drink: Bring a hip flask in case it gets a bit nippy!
What to bring: Your sea legs
The theme: All to Play for
The brief: While a trip to Las Vegas may sound great in theory, the reality is that your fiancée will probably not like the thought of your drinking your wedding funds away. The low budget option is to hold a boys only card school.
Where to go: Hold the evening in your own home or nominate your best man to find you a suitable alternative.
What to wear: Your best suit. If you can't afford a trip to Las Vegas, why not bring the glamour with you anyway.
What to drink: Martini's - shaken not stirred
What to bring: Your poker face
|
Planning 
Our fab finalist scrolls from Craft World 
