If your bride is looking for some rest and relaxation or some adrenaline and fun, make sure to check out these quirky ideas to surprise your bestie!

From spas and retreats, to party bikes and gin classes, we have all the inspo to help you start planning the ultimate hen party.

Book a Hen Party Coordinator

Worried you might not be able to pull off your brides expectations? Why not get in touch with a hen party planner such as Belfast Hen & Stag Party. They are your one-stop shop when it comes to planning a unique and tailored hen party package. From your accommodation, to your meals out, activities, and more! You pick the dates and they can do the rest.

Why not check out their tipsy tea parties for those wanting to go an extra mile? With this package, you can have a teapot prosecco and cocktail of your choice, along with a bird cage of gourmet sandwiches sweet treats scones and jams. There is also an optional Cheeky Butler to serve your treats to make this a truly fabulous Hen! The Cheeky Butler will play a few party games in his skimpy apron leaving nothing to the imagination.

Spa Weekend

If your bride is just looking for some quality time with her besties, a spa weekend might be right up her street.

The luxury Thermal Spa Village at Galgorm is hard to beat when looking for a perect spa retreat with the girls. For bigger parties, the Rabbit Hotel which offers exclusive use of its spa pool so you can throw your own groovy pool party. You are sure to dance the night away!

Go Glamping!

Searching for a hen where you can get away from it all and relax before the big day arrives? Teapot Lane in Co. Leitrim boasts over a decade of hosting glamping hen parties at unique venues to provide the perfect weekend away.

Tuck into a delicious wood-fired pizza on Friday evening as you settle in before enjoying some prosecco at a vintage tea party or getting competitive and designing the best knickers for the bride on Saturday.

Fancy throwing shapes on the dance floor? Teapot Lane Glamping can provide the party with a complimentary bus to take you to and from Sligo or Bundoran.

Dare to be Bold?

Step into someone else’s shoes for the night and take part in some of the fantastic Role Play hen party packages at Treacys Hotel Wexford. There is something to suit everyone and you are bound to have a unique hen experience that your party members will be talking about for a long time!

Feeling a bit bold? Why not book their Paint A Nude, Burlesque Party or Pole Dancing Experience packages? Draw on your art skills as you try painting a model, learn some burlesque moves or test your core strength and learn some pole dancing techniques. Your friends are sure not to forget any of these activities!

Makeup Masterclass & More

Celebrate your Hen party in style at Silverbirch Hotel, located in the heart of Co.Tyrone in the bustling town of Omagh!

A quality family owned Hotel, Hen Parties have a choice of 64 bedrooms which are beautifully decorated. The stylish surrounding of Barreta Bar & Grill or Bertha’s Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a celebratory cocktail or glass of bubbly. They have a selection of hen packages to suit all your needs, including a benefit makeup masterclass package!

A Hen Party Movie Night!

Does your bride love the movies but want to bring a unique twist to it? Why not book a screening at The Avenue, Belfast where you can order food and cocktails while watching the latest films. Whether you’re opting for their classic cinema snack selection or gourmet burgers and delicious seasonal small plates, The Avenue’s Café & Bar menu is sure to cater for every taste.

If you are looking for a more private cinema experience, the in-house Cameo Cinema at the Montenotte Hotel Cork is very exquisite, with dinner and a movie and bubbles packages available.

Bottle It Up!

Its all about the Bride-to-be when you attend Belfast Artisan Gin School! Bring the Hen party to Gin School and make a bespoke keepsake bottle of Gin for the Hen. Everyone chooses a botanical to make up the recipe and signs the ‘TEAM BRIDE’ bottle which the bride can take home and keep. Package lasts 90 mins and includes the bottle of Gin for the Bride and 4 drinks each. Additional bottles for Bridesmaids, Mothers of the Bride etc are also available.

Tribe Irish Gin also does a very similar gin package. Enjoy the full Tribe Gin school experience and hear about Galway and Tribe Gin’s history! Choose botanicals to distill your own bottle of gin, enjoy UNLIMITED G&Ts, and indulge in a charcuterie and cheese board featuring local Irish brands! What’s not to love.

Escape Rooms

Escape rooms are an ideal activity for hen parties to realise their competitive edge and get your adrenaline pumping for the rest of the day.  Escapade HQ offers fun and challenging escape rooms in Belfast, Northern Ireland.  Based in Dundonald International Ice Bowl near Belfast you are a stone’s throw from lots of hotels, restaurants and bars should you wish to continue the party.

Escape Limerick also provide hen packages. Their escape Rooms are fun, interactive and perfect for all ages because they know you might want to all ages along. Escape rooms provide the perfect mix of competition, challenge and fun, and are a brilliant way to get the entire group chatting together.

Outdoor Adventures

What better way to celebrate the impending responsibility of marriage, than with your friends and family, whizzing down a zipline and swinging across a cargo net. Enjoy the buzz of the challenge and live a little with Zipit forest adventures!

Get the best of both worlds with Todds Leap in County Tyrone. They also offer hen packages such as a one night Bed & Breakfast onsite, Choice of 2 Activities , 2-hour Spa session includes mini treatment, hydro pool & relaxation room and complimentary foot rub. How lush!

Burlesque Party!

Are you a big fan of Burlesque? The Burlesque Party in Dublin City Centre is taught by a qualified professional teacher and is suitable for specifically Hen Parties! They will teach the group an elegant but fun mix of Classical and modern Burlesque using various props and also learn some fabulous showgirl moves which are put together into a show-stopping routine.

This session is light hearted, exuberant and suitable for women of all ages. They can also cater the workshop to what you would like to learn – The Roaring 20’s (The Great Gatsby) is another option.

DIY Hen Party

Whether the budget has already been spent on an intimate hen do abroad or you are stuck for time why not host a hen party at home?

You could create your own tailored mini spa with prosecco and pick up some matching pyjamas for the whole party! Take a trip to your local chemists or beauty store and collect a collection of nail polish and face masks. Each person within the bride tribe could also create their own cocktail for the party that symbolises the bride in their eyes! You could finish the evening with a classic rom-com or a chick flick, the options are endless for those who are budget savy!

The post Quirky Hen Party Ideas that you will Love in Ireland! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Looking for a way to bond with your bridesmaids before the big day? It’s time for a movie night – wedding themed of course! So round up your girls, get the popcorn (and wine!) ready and settle in for a cosy night with these must-watch wedding wedding movies to watch with your bridesmaids!

In this edit, we’re giving you all the cheesy classics and rom-coms that are essential for a girly movie night with your bride tribe! You may have seen some before, but re-watching as a bride-to-be will get you excited for your big day, calm those wedding jitters and have you and your girls laughing all night long.

Keep on scrolling to plan your bridesmaid movie night in…

1. Bride Wars

Prepare to laugh out loud at Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson who play bestfriends (Emma and Liv) in this hilarious movie where they get super competitive planning their dream wedding on the same date at the same venue. Get ready for some Bridezilla drama!

2. Bridesmaids

It wouldn’t be a wedding movie night without the iconic Bridesmaids film! No matter how many times you watch this movie, you’re guaranteed to howl with laughter – and with your bride tribe, what could be better?! Watch an unlikely group of bridesmaids bond before the wedding when two of the bride’s ‘best friends’ start competing for a place in her heart which results in lots of hilarious and drama-filled moments.

3. 27 Dresses

Always a bridesmaid, never a bride. For anyone who felt like the big day would never come, this one is for you! Katherine Heigl plays Jane who after serving as a bridesmaid 27 times, wrestles with the idea of standing by her sister’s side as her sibling marries the man she’s secretly in love with – which is also James Marsden as Kevin!

4. My Best Friend’s Wedding

Make sure you have some tissues handy for this one! Get ready to laugh and cry in this nostalgic classic starring Julie Roberts as Julianne, Dermot Mulroney as Michael and Cameron Diaz as Kimberly. Long story short, Julianne realises she’s in love with her best friend Michael who just got engaged and is conflicted between giving it a shot or letting him be happy with someone else – just days before the wedding!

5. Monster-In-Law

Even if you have the best mother-in-law in the world, this one is an hilarious must-watch! Charlotte, who is played by Jennifer Lopez, has a miserable dating life of disastrous blind dates until she meets her dream guy, Kevin. Unfortunately, Kevin’s mother is merciless in doing anything to break them up!

6. The Proposal

Sweet, romantic and funny, The Proposal stars Sandra Bullock (plays Margaret) and Ryan Reynolds (plays Andrew) who have agreed to marry in order to keep Margaret’s visa status in the U.S and avoid deportation to Canada – in the end the two have undeniable chemistry!

7. The Wedding Planner

Jennifer Lopez stars as Mary the wedding planner who accidentally falls in love with the groom starred by Matthew McConaughey when planning his wedding. Keep an eye on your man ladies! With these two actors, you already know it’s a great rom-com.

8. Wedding Crashers

In case there is still any lingering worry over whether you are going to miss all of the fun of being single, this is the movie for you! Vince Vaughan and Owen Wilson jump from wedding to wedding, selecting pretty young things for one night stands until they finally both realise that sometimes all you need is that one perfect person.

9. Runaway Bride

Richard Gere (Ike) and Julia Roberts (Maggie) attempt to bring their chemistry from Pretty Woman to this wedding film which sees Maggie gaining media recognition for jilting her grooms at the altar! Journalist Ike is sent to scoop the story and ends up falling for her charms!

10. Mamma Mia

Get the girls together and prepare to sing your heart out to Abba tunes as you watch Donna (Meryl Streep) prepare for her daughter’s wedding! The bride Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) secretly invites three men from her mother’s past in the hope of meeting her real father and having him escort her down the aisle on her big day. Watch all three Mamma Mia movies if you’re in the dancing mood!

11. Sex In The City

Okay the wedding didn’t go as planned in this one, but this is the ultimate tale of your girlfriends having your back! Sarah Jessica Parker stars as a New York City writer who is finally getting married to her Mr. Big, but her three best girlfriends must console her after the groom gets cold feet on the way to the alter.

12. My Big Fat Greek Wedding

A shockingly underrated flick! It is a romantic, cheerful love story but also the story of an unconfident, sheltered woman who had to discover her own identity before she met the man of her dreams. The perfect choice if you need a little inspiration before the big day.

13. The Wedding Singer

This movie has it all. It’s funny and relatable (because it’s always the taken ones that we seem to fall for) and it is painfully adorable. It also stars Adam Sandler and Barry Drewmore, so you know it’s going to be the perfect combination of romance and comedy!

14. Coming To America

An extremely pampered African prince played by Eddie Murphy travels to Queens, New York, and goes undercover to find a wife that he can respect for her intelligence and strong will. He works at a burger bar and ends up falling in love with the owner’s daughter who loves him for himself. Aww!

15. Father Of The Bride

Steve Martin plays George the father of the bride who alongside Martin Short starring as the eccentric wedding planner Franck work together to organise his daughter’s wedding at home which is filled with plenty of hilarious moments. A touching and funny film about a father reluctant to let his little girl go!

16. The Hangover

Three buddies wake up from a bachelor party in Las Vegas, with no memory of the previous night and the bachelor missing. They make their way around the city in order to find their friend before his wedding. An hilarious watch starring Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis and Ed Helms.

The post 16 Best Wedding Movies To Watch With Your Bridesmaids appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Our lives have been taken over by Love Island once again, so we decided what better way to inspire our brides and bridesmaids than showing you how to create the ultimate Love Island-Themed hen party?!

RELATED TO: All The Love Island Wedding Dresses & Where To Find Them!

Give your bride-to-be the trip to remember with these fun and funky ideas inspired by the hit TV show – from the dreamy Majorca Villa to the iconic water bottles and hilarious hen games, keep on scrolling to get inspired and find out how to pull off the best hen party ever… que the Love Island theme tune!

THE VILLA:

Sea & Stars – book on plumguide.com

This uber-chic villa in Majorca is giving us all the Love Island vibes from the cobble stone walls to the huge terrace balcony and sleek sun loungers! With five bedrooms and bathrooms, this villa can host up to 10 of you and your bride tribe and would make the ultimate party stay. It is also surrounded by white sand beaches and crystal clear waters with the nearest beach being Cala Millor. Obsessed!

DRINKWEAR:

Can all our bridesmaids please gather to the drinks area! These Love Island-themed champagne flutes are perfect for your hen party away. They can be personalised with any name and colour – and you can even add your big day roles such as ‘Bride’ or ‘Maid of Honour’. How cute!

THE WATER BOTTLES:

Stay hydrated (or keep topped up!) with these adorable Love Island water bottles – hen party edition! Your bride squad and bride-to-be are sure to love these and will make for a super cute keepsake.

THE DECOR:

Now it’s time to set the tone so we’re going to need a little Love Island inspired décor! Of course, you can’t forget the iconic bulb fairylights – these are easy to find almost anywhere and are a simple and affordable way to bring your hen party to the next level.

We also love these Island-style hen party photo frames which will look amazing for all your hen party Instagram pics. Come up with a hen hashtag and you’re selfie ready!

Everyone knows flamingo décor are a big part of the Love Island theme so we couldn’t not include this hilarious sign from Amazon! Surprising your bride with cute decorations like this will really make a difference.

SWIMWEAR:

Watch out… a GROUP of hot new bombshells are about to enter the villa! Get your bride squad feeling fabulous in these hen party swimwear sets that will look great in your photographs and really set the tone for your stay away.

GAMES:

You can’t plan a hen party without some hilarious hen party games! Cards Against Humanity meets the hen party with this Horrible Hens Game which features dares, forfeits and some naughty rules.

RELATED TO: 21 Hilarious Hen Party Games You & Your Girls Will Love

WARNING: All hens are sure to be embarrassed and do some freaky dares!

We love a good beer pong at a party, but every hen party needs prosecco pong! It’s just the classier version of beer pong and makes for super cute décor as well as a fun way to get the drinks flowing. Crack open a bottom of bubbly and you’re ready to play!

Still looking for hen party inspiration? Check out all our hen party & stag suppliers HERE!

The post How To Throw A Love Island-Themed Hen Party appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Don’t worry as Ireland’s Wedding Journal will help you plan an unforgettable day (or weekend) for the bride-to-be!

From a sophisticated afternoon tea to adrenaline raising activities and glamping in style to forgetting wedding stresses at the spa, there are lots of hen party ideas to suit every type of bride.

Keep scrolling to find some hen party inspiration and plan the event of a lifetime…

8 Hen Party Ideas For An Unforgettable Night

Afternoon Tea

Delicious cake, beautiful china and maybe even a wee glass of bubbly, an afternoon tea is a popular choice among brides.

This is the perfect activity to start a hen party as all the hens gather around a table, get to know each other and enjoy delicious sweet treats and bubbly.

With an abundance of cafes and hotels throughout Ireland offering an afternoon tea menu, including Titanic Hotel Belfast and Pillo Hotel Asbourne, there is plenty of options, menus and delicious treats to choose from!

Action Packed Day Out

Is your bride-to-be bestie a little bit of an adrenaline junkie? Then, an action packed day full of hair raising activities should be on your radar.

Fly across forests on a zipline, scale multi-stories on a climbing wall or join forces with the bride tribe for a round of paint-balling.

Todd’s Leap in Co. Tyrone pride themselves on offering ‘the most electrifying choice of activities Northern Ireland can offer,” which includes the Drop Zone, The Giant Swing and The Climbing Wall.

If your bride is feeling extra adventurous, why not take a ride on Ireland’s longest zipline at Colin Glen in Co. Antrim!

RELATED TO: 21 Hilarious Hen Party Games You & Your Girls Will Love

Glamping in Style

Round up your bride tribe and put the glamour back into camping with glamping.

From luxury lodges to little huts, glamping is a great way to spending time with your besties before the big day. Many of these spots have fun activities nearby, private hot tubs and self-catering options so it is best to search around and find the one that is right for your group.

Spa Weekend

For the bride who loves a bit of luxury and R&R, then a spa weekend may be the perfect hen party idea. What’s better than a little bit of TLC whilst sipping on champagne as the stresses of wedding planning washes away?

With lots of treatments to choose from, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Did someone say facial?

RELATED TO: Maid of Honour Duties: The Ultimate Guide

Murder Mystery Evening

Can the bride not get enough of Netflix’s latest crime documentary?

Let her live out her detective dreams with a Murder Mystery Evening. After an unsuspecting victim falls foul to a horrendous crime, it is up to the hen party to uncover the killer.

Bonus points if you throw in some fancy dress!

Cocktail-Making Classes

A hen party classic – the cocktail-making class!

These classes are another great way to start off the hen party weekend and lets the hen chat, mingle and enjoy a cocktail (or two!)

Make sure it’s shaken, not stirred…

RELATED TO: 10 Budget-Friendly Buys To Put In Your Hen Party Bags

Arts and Crafts

If your bride is the queen of DIY then an Arts and Crafts class is sure to be a winner.

From flower-crown making to pottery painting and creating your own candle, these classes are a great way to let your imagination run wild and is a fun way to get to know the other hens before the big day.

Karaoke Night

Does the bride-to-be fancy herself as the next big thing? Or maybe she loves a singalong with her friends? Find a local bar with a karaoke night and enjoy the evening pretending to be the next big girl group.

The post 8 Hen Party Ideas For An Unforgettable Night appeared first on Wedding Journal.

WIN a yoga retreat with Salthill Yoga

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Are you in need of a relaxing break away? Well you might be in luck as we’ve teamed up with Salthill Yoga Retreat to gift one of our lucky WJ readers a weekend yoga retreat at Salthill Hotel in Galway for two!

RELATED TO: Healthy Hen Parties at Salthill Yoga Retreat

You will have plenty of time to explore whatever is closest to your heart. Take a breath of fresh air! Explore Salthill – a seaside resort in Galway Bay. Venture to the beach, take a stroll on the promenade, or in the garden. If you are adventurous, enjoy countless hiking trails, sea swimming, and watersports of your choice.

Salthill Hotel said this is ‘the first yoga retreat of its kind in Ireland‘. Retreats are three days, two nights, over weekends or mid-week. Packages are fully inclusive, with up to 10 hours of the highest quality yoga and mindfulness with meals and drinks included. 

*This retreat is ideal for hen parties of up to 16 people looking for a relaxing getaway before the big day*

Guests benefit from a relaxing stay in the famous sea views rooms, access to ocean fitness and the unrivalled setting of Salthill Hotel. 

Time is built into the package for guests to explore Galway City or take leisurely strolls along the 2.5km of Salthill Promenade, set right on the shores of Galway Bay.  

Yoga Instructor Misha says: “We set out to create a luxury experience that combines the very highest standards of yoga instruction, with the highest quality and facilities you would expect from a premium 4-star hotel.  

“Our retreat has been designed to enhance your mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. To help you connect fully with your mind and body. To achieve this, we have selected a perfect space for your yoga experience. A balanced space that enjoys a bright, peaceful, and calming atmosphere with majestic views right out across Galway Bay”.

T&Cs/details:

• 1 prize winner and plus one guest
• Two night stay at Salthill Hotel: Famous sea views rooms & access to ocean fitness
• Three day retreat with 10 hours of yoga & mindfulness classes
• All meals & drinks included: Dinner on day one. Breakfast, lunch & dinner on day two. Breakfast & lunch on day three (alcohol is not included in the deal)

For more information call please call 00353 91 522711 or visit https://salthillyogaretreat.com.

So what are you waiting for?! Enter via the form above to be in for a chance to win this amazing prize!

Sign up to our newsletter to get all the latest from The Wedding Journal! Join Here>>>>http://eepurl.com/ck9vLb

The post WIN A Luxurious Yoga Retreat In Galway With Salthill Yoga Retreat For Two (CLOSED) appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Fancy a relaxing break away on the Galway Bay? Visit Salthill Yoga Retreat where you and your girls can experience three days and two nights in a luxurious hotel practicing yoga and mindfulness.

The team at Salthill Hotel said this is ‘the first yoga retreat of its kind in Ireland’ and are so excited to welcome all their guests who can now book their stay through their new website – https://salthillyogaretreat.com

Yoga Instructor Misha says: “We set out to create a luxury experience that combines the very highest standards of yoga instruction, with the highest quality and facilities you would expect from a premium 4-star hotel.  

“Our retreat has been designed to enhance your mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. To help you connect fully with your mind and body. To achieve this, we have selected a perfect space for your yoga experience. A balanced space that enjoys a bright, peaceful, and calming atmosphere with majestic views right out across Galway Bay”.

Retreats are three days, two nights, over weekends or mid-week. Packages are fully inclusive, with up to 10 hours of the highest quality yoga and mindfulness. Guests benefit from a relaxing stay in our famous sea views rooms, access to ocean fitness, the unrivalled setting of Salthill Hotel. 

Time is built into the package for guests to explore Galway City or take leisurely strolls along the 2.5km of Salthill Promenade, set right on the shores of Galway Bay.  

To book, please call 00353 91 522711 or visit https://salthillyogaretreat.com.

Sign up to our newsletter to get all the latest from The Wedding Journal! Join Here>>>>http://eepurl.com/ck9vLb

The post Healthy Hen Parties at Salthill Yoga Retreat appeared first on Wedding Journal.

If you are planning a hen party for your bestie, you might know of the stresses and worries this may bring. But fear not as Ireland’s Wedding Journal have listed ideas below for an unforgettable weekend.

Whether the bride is an adrenaline junkie or would prefer to put her feet up before the big day, you will find plenty of ideas below to suit any bride!

1. Treacys Hotel, Wexford

Delve into the world of drag with Treacys Hotel’s RuPaul’s Drag Race party package! Sashay the night away with 2 drag queens as your entertainment. It’s sure to be wild when the queens take you to the stage to perform. For the ultimate RuPaul fan, there is also a table quiz on the show where you can show off your drag knowledge. Yas Queen!

2. Adventure Tours NI

Adventure Tours NI offers a huge range of hen party packages in Northern Ireland. From adventures in the air, on water and land,  you are sure to find the one just right for the bride’s personality!

Is the bride-to-be an adrenaline junkie? Why not book the parachuting package. This package includes a 2 night stay in luxurious accommodation, the use of an outdoor hot tub (perfect after jumping 3,500 feet out of an aeroplane!) and a night out, this is definitely one to get the hearts racing.

RELATED TO: 21 Hilarious Hen Party Games You & Your Girls Will Love

3. Teapot Lane Glamping

Searching for a hen where you can get away from it all and relax before the big day arrives? Teapot Lane in Co. Leitrim boasts over a decade of hosting glamping hen parties at unique venues to provide the perfect weekend away.

Tuck into a delicious wood-fired pizza on Friday evening as you settle in before enjoying some prosecco at a vintage tea party or getting competitive and designing the best knickers for the bride on Saturday.

Fancy throwing shapes on the dance floor? Teapot Lane Glamping can provide the party with a complimentary bus to take you to and from Sligo or Bundoran.

4. Lagan Boat Company

All aboard the Lagan Boat Company and make your hen party one to remember.

Sail the Titanic water of Belfast and take in the stunning city vistas with the Belfast Hills as a backdrop.

The ‘Joyce Two’ vessel is the ideal party boat for intimate hens while the ‘Mona,’ with her enclosed saloon and two open decks, is suitable for parties of up to 50 guests. Bring your own decorations and drinks and while away the hours on your own private boat!

RELATED TO: 100 Questions For The Ultimate Mr & Mrs Wedding Quiz

5. We Are Vertigo 

Reinvent the hen party at Belfast’s We Are Vertigo. Create bespoke group packages at their Newtownbreda and Titanic Quarter locations which are perfect for the activity-loving bride-to-be.

Test your agility at the Ninja Master Course, fly like a bird at the Indoor Skydiving or battle against the Maid of Honour at the Inflatable Park. After working up an appetite, why not visit Haymarket, one of Belfast’s newest bars that We Are Vertigo has partnered with and enjoy some tasty meals, delightful drinks and live music.

6. Todd’s Leap

Whether it is a relaxing spa package or an adventure packed hen you are after, Todd’s Leap in Co. Tyrone has something for everyone.

With electrifying activities – including paint-balling, off road driving and zip lining, Todd’s Leap is an adventure wonderland with something that everyone will enjoy.

If you would like to unwind after a fun-filled day, why not opt for their Adventure Spa package which includes one night Bed & Breakfast onsite, choice of 2 activities, 2-hour spa session to include a mini treatment, hydro pool, relaxation room and complimentary foot rub.

RELATED TO: Will You Be My Bridesmaid?

7. Killyhevlin Spa Retreat Hen Party

Spend some luxury time with the girls in Enniskillen’s Killyhevlin Spa.

Their Spa Retreat hen party package is sure to leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and re-energised! The girls can enjoy full use of the crystal blue swimming pool, outdoor hot tub and Jacuzzi followed by a 60-minute spa treatment. Choose from a full body massage, exotic facial or an aroma spa ocean wrap (sign us up for all of them!)

Conclude your day with a delicious lunch and cocktail overlooking the idyllic Lough Erne.

8. Wee Toast Tours

Cruise the bustling street of Belfast in a pub on wheels. Yes, you heard that right! Wee Toast Tours have become a regular sight in Belfast City Centre and is a great way to take in the hot spots.

Gather the hen party, pop the prosecco, cycle your way through the cobbled streets of the city centre and sing along to the party pumping playlist. Don’t worry, you will have an expert team on hand to steer the bike! Stop off in some of the best-known pubs for a refresher before finishing your tour. Trust us, this is one activity you will not forget!

Are you planning a hen party? Find all the latest hen party ideas in our directory!

The post 8 Ideas For An Unforgettable Hen Party appeared first on Wedding Journal.

What’s a hen party without some cracker games?! If you’re currently planning the #besthenpartyever and are in need of some fun hen party games for you and your maids, you’ve came to the right place.

In our hen party game guide, we’re giving you every game you could possible think off – from classic ice breakers to competitive and creative challenges and even some naughty games so you can really get the party started!

RELATED TO: 10 Creative Wedding Games Your Guests Will Love

Ready for some game inspo? Let’s go!

1. The Mr & Mrs Quiz

The classic Mr & Mrs game never fails to get some laughs! This a great ice breaker to kick off the night. All you have to do is prep a list of questions to get the broom to answer ahead of time – for e.g. ‘What’s your favourite movie?’ or make them even more fun with some saucy questions! Then get the bride to answer on the night and see how well she knows her husband to be!

2. Only Wrong Answers

This is a fun one that is sure to get you and your girls LOLing! Simple ask some basic questions that will have obvious answers – but the twist is, you CANNOT give the correct answer! Only wrong answers will do. As simple as it sounds, this one is surprisingly hard (especially after a few drinks!).

3. The Vow Remix

For this hen party game, draft up a version of your vows (this can be fake for the game or real if you’re up for it!) and print out for each guest, making sure to leave some blank spaces to be filled in. Then simply get your girls to fill in the blank spaces in the vows with their own funny answers – the more ridiculous, the better! Read aloud at the end and you’re guaranteed a great laugh.

RELATED TO: How To Plan The Perfect Hen Party

4. Would She Rather?

Get your competitive juices flowing with a game of ‘Would She Rather?’ Split your girls into teams of two and four 2 and have some game sheets ready with a list of scenarios. Set a time for each team to pick the choices they think the bride-to-be would choose. At the end, ask the bride-to-be what she’d actually pick. The team with the most correct answers wins!

5. Never Have I Ever

Get the party started with a saucy game of ‘Never Have I Ever’. This is a great way to find out some naughty secrets about your girls. Take turns to allow each guest to tell the group about something they’ve never done, beginning the sentence with, ‘Never have I ever…’. Anyone who has done the deed, must take a sip of their drink! You’ll be surprised what you find out

6. The Knicker Game

Ok now we’re really getting into it! For this naught game, each hen will bring along a pair of underwear (newly bought ones we hope!!) that best represents their personality and discreetly pop them into a designated ‘knicker box’. The bride-to-be must match the pants to the person – you could also switch up and add a pair that best represents the bride!

7. The Cocktail Making Challenge

Get the drinks flowing by setting up a station with different types of alcohol available, various mixers and garnishes. Get as creative as you like with fruit, sweets, syrups and split the hens into teams to see what they come up with – we also recommend giving these hilarious names. Let the bride choose the winning concoction!

RELATED TO: 10 Budget-Friendly Buys To Put In Your Hen Party Bags

8. Hen Party Piñata

This isn’t any old Piñata, it’s a hen party themed Piñata! Get a Piñata fit for the occasion such as a ring, love heart or champagne bottle and fill it with sweets, fancy dress accessories, confetti and even miniature bottles of booze! Don’t forget to blindfold everyone when it’s their turn.

9. Gin Pong

Photo via Amazon

Are you and your girls gin lovers? Then why not entertain your hen with a game of Gin Pong! With 12 plastic green and gold gin tumblers, two yellow and two green ping pong balls, the aim is to throw the ball into another  glass and drink every time a person shoots and scores. It’s a fun gift for a gin lover and a great addition to any hen party.

10. Truth or Dare

One of the most simple yet hilarious hen party games is a personalised version of ‘Truth or Dare.’ Simply open it up and two cubes featuring truth and dares will pop out. One cube has truth starters on it and the other has dare starters. When the cubes have popped out, the player can choose if they want to do a truth or a dare, depending on how the cubes have landed. It’ll definitely add an extra fun factor!

11. Cocktail Quiz

With this customised Cocktail Quiz, your hen party will definitely get off to a swinging start, with a little humour thrown in! Each guest fills in the blanks on their game sheet to complete the names of the cheeky cocktails. A great fun way to kick-off celebrations and suitable for playing at home, in a restaurant or bar. With up to 8 players able to play, it’s ideal for small and large parties, so why not give it a go.

12. Wedding Absurd Comparisons

Want to inject some humour to your hen? Why not play the hilarious Wedding Absurd Comparisons? The game is so easy follow: come up with the most absurd possible answer to a variety of questions! With 96 absurd question cards and 107 absurd answer cards,  the aim of the game is coming up with the most hilarious combinations ever! Guaranteed laughs all round.

13. Relationship Trivia Questions

Drinking games are a hilarious way to get everyone relaxed and into the party atmosphere and this eight pack Relationship Game Coasters is the perfect addition to your party.The novelty drinks coasters each have four relationship trivia questions, which are guaranteed to have you all in side-splitting giggles. Your hen night won’t be complete without them!

RELATED TO: Hen Party Games, Ideas & Ice Breakers

14. Who Am I?

Looking for a fun game that every guest can play? Try the Who Am I Game that will have everyone guessing and laughing! A brilliant ice breaker for guests who may not know each other very well, all you have to do is pick up some Que cards and write names of well know people on them. The aim of the game is that one guest holds the cards up to their forehead and without looking tries to guest who the person is. Hilarious!

15. He Said She Said

Fancy testing how much the bride to be really knows her fiance? Then this simple, easy to follow game is the perfect addition to any hen party. All you have to do is test the bride to be’s knowledge of her fiance which will no doubt be hilarious. It comes with a question and answer sheet so you can easily mark the bride’s answers and also comes with 8 cardboard mustaches and lips.

16. Pass The Parcel

For a Hen Party twist on the old party classic, Pass the Parcel is a fabulous addition. This kit will set you up with everything you need for a game to remember, with pretty pink tissues to wrap gifts in, confetti for between the layers, as well as high quality winners’ glasses. And, in a typically  cheeky hen party twist, you’ll also have 15 forfeit cards to intersperse through the layers of wrapping, left blank so that you can make the forfeit as tame or as risqué as you desire.

17. Bridal Bingo

Did someone say bingo? This bridal shower bingo game is a great way to share gifts with the bride. Complete with hundreds of gems and customisable forms, bridal gifting couldn’t be easier. With up to 16 cards to play, work with the bride and hens to list the ideal gifts for married life. Using this personalised set, you can list all desired items before getting the girls to play bridal shower bingo. So fun!

RELATED TO: 15 Insta Worthy Hen Party Ideas Around Ireland 

18. Tipsy Tripple

Why not add a competitive activity to any Hen Night, but playing this hilarious Tipsy Topple Hen Party Game. After setting up the game, the girls take it turns to remove a glass until either all the glasses are gone or the tower of glasses has fallen over. The only problem is will you have a steady enough hand to set up the game in the first place! With so much fun guaranteed, this definitely has to be added!

19. Hen Do Pictionary

Want to go for something a bit different? Then check out Hen Do Pictonary, a drawing game where you read the word out loud and then have to act it out, without making any sound! Its a great way for everyone to get to know each other in a quick, fun setting. The cards are business card size, which are ideal for stashing in your bag. It can be played around the dinner table or in any group setting. Also, if you want to up the ante, it can be turned into a drinking game by designating shots to anyone who cannot draw their card sufficiently for others to guess.

20. Scratch & Win

Something different, try this scratch card game! Each guest receives a card where they have to scratch off the heart  to see if they are the winner! Each set of 12 cards comes with 1 “winner” card and 11 “sorry” cards. If you require a different number of winner’s please send a message before ordering. The ‘winner’ cards will be packaged separately from the others in case you need to know ahead of time.

21. Love At First Sight

When the bride and groom met, was it love at first sight? Let’s find out! A modern twist on the game ‘Consequences’, this fun personalised hen party game allows the hens to re-write history. Simply fill in the first blank on the sheet, fold it over so that the next player can’t see your answer and then pass it on so that they can continue the story.

Remember to have fun with your answers! When all of the blanks are filled, open up the sheets and read the stories out loud. Enjoy!

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The post 21 Hilarious Hen Party Games You & Your Girls Will Love appeared first on Wedding Journal.

You’re on the countdown to the big day and your friends are waiting to celebrate with you – so what are you going to do?

Well, with the country starting to open up once again, it’s perfectly possible to partayyyy – as long as you take care and keep the socially distancing guidelines in mind!

The key is to come up with flexible ideas that can be moved outside or spread out. Maybe a mini festival in your back garden or a games night you can take onto Zoom at the last minute if the worst comes to the worst.

RELATED TO: 100 Questions For The Ultimate Mr And Mrs Quiz

So you’re probably not going to be jetting off for a weekend’s debauchery in Amsterdam or Barcelona, but there are plenty of fun ideas you can put into action right here!

Unmask your inner superhero

Treat yourselves to an amazing indoor experience where you can soar like an eagle in the indoor skydiving facilities at We Are Vertigo in Titanic Quarter. Then combine your trip with a few more adventures, like duelling on the battle beam at the Inflatable Park and testing your agility at the Ninja Master Course, before topping off your day of adventure with a lively night out at CARGO By Vertigo, Belfast’s largest outdoor licensed restaurant close to the Titanic Park complex. Available at We Are Vertigo.

RELATED TO: Has Your Man Turned Into A Groomzilla?

Glamping Hen Party

Party with your hens in a fun glamping dome or cute treehouse in the midst of a wonderful woodland at the BYOB Teapot Lane Glamping. Tuck into wood-fired pizzas before enjoying some chilled out tunes from the resident DJ. Then have a riot designing the best knickers for the bride and exploring the local beaches. You could go for a chilled out evening playing party games or hit the nearest town for a night out. Add on fun activities like a treasure hunt; life drawing class; Battle of the Bridesmaids; Finding Ted – The Father Ted experience; or Mrs Doyle & her Grannies – Battle of the Grannies. Available at Teapot Lane Glamping.

Axe Throwing

Get in touch with your inner Ragnar as you learn to throw axes at a target. This is a group activity where you will play fun games and enjoy some friendly competition – all bookings include a dedicated coach to teach you everything you need to know and make sure no-one comes over all Odin and loses an eye. Urban Axe Throwing at The Axeyard in Belfast can accommodate groups of up to 40.

RELATED TO: Quirky Wedding Entertainment Your Guests Are Going To Love

Make a big splash

Enjoy your own aquapark session at Splash NI, based in Moneymore in Northern Ireland – what more fun can you have in the summer than bouncing, jumping and splashing your way round the giant new custom-built aquapark with your mates? Two new A-frame cabins have just been built, so you’ll be able to make a weekend of it and tackle the Tarzan Tree Top Adventure Course as well. From Splash NI water park at Jungle NI.

Escape the Room

Challenge yourselves to an escape room, an immersive adventure game in which people are ‘locked’ in a themed room with their friends and have to solve a series of puzzles, find clues and escape within a set time limit. Incognito Escape Room in Dublin offers the Baker Street Mystery, challenging players to solve a murder mystery while attempting to dismantle the notorious Baker Street Five, a high-profile gang that has been terrorizing Victorian London. Or head to Westeros for Game of Stones, in which you and your friend will have to save the Seven Kingdoms by finding the hidden dragon egg. From Incognito Escape Room in Dublin.

RELATED TO: 10 Budget Friendly Buys To Put In Your Hen Party Bags

Let the professionals sort it!

Carrick-on-Shannon is renowned as a popular hub for stag and hen weekends and your go-to is The Courtyard Apartments, who offer more than 30 hen and stag packages in a series of self-catering accommodation options. There’s the Murder Mystery Package, the Culchie Craic package (getting busy on a farm!), the Dance Class Party Package and the Ann Summers package (we’re blushing!). It also offers go-karting experiences, paintball, air rifle and archery and the awesome-sounding disco dodgeball. From The Courtyard Apartments.

RELATED TO: How To Throw The Perfect Love Island Hen Party

Book a private cinema screening

Why not make a night of it and book out a cinema to watch your favourite movies? Whether you adore Bridesmaids or you’re ready to find out the worst that can happen with The Hangover, this is the perfect chill night out with your pals as you count down to the big day. Try IMC Cinemas.

Make your own spirit

Try concocting your own fabulous flavoured gin at the Belfast Gin and Spirits School. You’ll learn how to blend your own recipe using a base spirit and botanicals to create a drink you can take home. This is the perfect group event and you get to enjoy bespoke cocktails as part of the experience, along with gin-infused sweet treats. Available at Belfast Gin and Spirits School.

RELATED TO: 13 Best Wedding Planning Podcasts

CSI Save The Groom

You’ve just received a video of your abducted groom, tied to a chair and pleading for your help – what do you do next? Why, split up into teams, gather the evidence and track the poor man down, of course! Create Your Night runs Save the Groom games all over Ireland, using the help of actors, but has also launched a hugely popular virtual version which you and your hens can play from the comfort of your own living room or hotel room. It’s just one of the many fun stag and hen packages they run, including song recording packages, cocktail making, pedal tour crawls and an NYPD experience! The only difficulty is picking just one… From Create Your Night.

RELATED TO: How To Have A Virtual Hen Party

Still looking for your perfect venue? Check out our gallery of fabulous venues HERE.

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The post 10 Great Ideas For A Stag Or Hen Do Right Now appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Bridesmaids aren’t just there to look pretty on your big day! They have a lot to contribute to make you feel at ease before and on your wedding day, so make sure you choose your bride squad wisely.

Once you’ve asked someone to be in your bridal party, it’s hard to go back. So while it may be tempting to ask all of your favourite friends the minute you get engaged, take some time to think about who would be best for the role – ask yourself questions like ‘who is really there for me?’, ‘who is most responsible?’, ‘who can I really rely on to get things done?’

These are the types of bridesmaids we all want and need at our wedding! Those who will help you feel calm and organised, but will also help you turn up when it comes to celebrating your big day! Now let’s look at those all-important duties every bridesmaid needs to know…

RELATED: Who Pays For The Bridesmaid Dresses

Dress shopping

Dress shopping is by far one of the most important duties of the bridesmaids and maid of honour! It’s important you have your closest girls around you when choosing your wedding dress. The bridesmaids should be there to help you make the right decision by giving their honest opinions whilst also making the experience fun and hyping you up when you’ve found the one! Also, make sure to take your bridesmaids along while choosing their dresses too so they can have a say and feel calm and confident by your side on the big day.

Here’s some boutiques we recommend to have the best shopping experience for you and your bride tribe…

 

Looking for bridesmaid dress inspo? Click here to learn more about our favourite boutiques

Organising the hen party

It goes without saying that the bridesmaids’ number one job is organising the hen party, leaded by the maid of honour of course! The bride should relax knowing that her best girlfriends will take care of all the details, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give them a few tips right? From planning the venue, inviting guests to organising food and drink, there’s a lot to think about.

To help you out, here’s some of our favourite hen party suppliers so you can organise the best girl’s night out…

RELATED: 15 Things you Should NEVER say to your Bridesmaids

Wedding prep

We all know how stressful it can be planning a wedding, so what better way to prep for your big day than a pamper session with the girls? This is great thing to hand over to your bridesmaid to arrange as not only will it give you the opportunity to relax and catch up with your besties, but you can also tick of all the to-do’s on your beauty regime ahead of the big day!

Here’s some of the top places to get beautified with your besties…

Help plan transport

Style and beauty aside, you will need to be prepared when it comes to travel on your big day. Let your trusty bridesmaids help you out by organising the best travel options for you and your guests – you want to choose something reliable that you will get you there on time and in style!

Here’s some of the best transport suppliers we recommend for a stress free and stylish start to your day…

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR FAVOURITE SUPPLIERS HERE

The post Will You Be My Bridesmaid? appeared first on Wedding Journal.

It’s the perfect way to reveal some interesting facts about the couple and break the ice. Plus it can lead to some pretty fun – and revealing! – answers. It’s pretty much guaranteed to get a few laughs. You can even play the Mr & Mrs Quiz at the wedding. Here, we’ve included 100 Mr & Mrs Questions to choose from, but first…

RELATED TO: Have you bought your tickets for The Wedding Journal Show? Get exclusive VIP & discounted tickets online now!

How to play the Mrs & Mrs Game

FYI: The same rules apply whether it’s a Mr & Mr quiz or a Mrs & Mrs Quiz.

• Work your way through the list of questions below and pick out around 15. It’s good to get a mix of questions from each section although it’s best to leave out the naughty questions if the bride or groom’s mums are in attendance.
• Consider the bride when curating your list of questions – it’s a good idea to pick questions tailored to her that will generate the funniest answers.
• Once you’ve selected your questions, print off two copies and give one to the groom. His task is to answer the questions honestly. If you like, you can get him to film his answers, and play them back at the hen party.
• Next up, give the second sheet of questions to the bride at the hen party and get her to answer them. After each question, reveal the groom’s answer. The aim of the game is to see how well the couple know each other. Feel free to make it a little more fun by adding in shots for each wrong answer.

What you’ll need

Once you’ve printed off your questions, you don’t need much. A pen is a good idea if you want to keep check on a score and you can make it more interesting with paddleboards. We love these ones from Etsy…

Basic questions

1. What is their star sign?

2. Who is their best friend?

3. What is their shoe size?

4. What’s their guilty pleasure?

5. What is their favourite item of clothing?

6. What was the name of their first pet?

7. What item would they save in a fire?

8. What is their favourite song?

9. What was their favourite subject at school?

10. What subject were they worst at?

11. If they could have a superpower, what would it be?

12. What is their favourite meal?

13. What food do they absolute hate?

14. What’s their favourite takeaway?

15. How do they like their tea and coffee?

16. What’s their favourite alcoholic drink?

17. What is their ‘desert island’ item?

18. If they could meet any celebrity, dead or alive, who would it be?

19. How old were they when they had their first kiss?

20. How many times did they take their driving test?

21. What are they most likely to go viral for?

22. What is their go-to karaoke song?

23. What is most likely to make them cranky?

24. What are they most likely to end up in jail for?

25. What were their exact words when they proposed?

26. What’s the one thing they couldn’t live without? (Apart from you, obvs)

27. How nervous are they about the wedding, on a scale of 1-10?

28. What are they most looking forward to about being married?

‘You’ questions

29. What item of clothing of yours do they hate most?

30. What would they say is your best quality?

31. What’s their favourite part of your body?

32. What is your most annoying habit?

33. What are they most proud of you for?

34. What first attracted them to you?

35. When did they realise they loved you?

36. What do they miss most about you when you’re away?

37. Who would they say is your best friend?

38. What would they say you most love about them?

39. What celebrity would they compare you to?

40. How many children do they think you want?

41. What bra size do they think you are?

42. What is their pet name for you?

43. What celebrity do you remind them of?

44. If they won the lottery, what’s the first thing they’d buy you?

45. What would you buy them?

46. How bridezilla would they say you are?

47. What kind of wedding dress are they expecting you to wear?

Reminiscent questions

48. Where was your first date?

49. What did they wear on your first date?

50. Who instigated the first kiss?

51. Who said ‘I Love You’ first?

52. What was your first impression of them?

53. What was their first impression of you?

54. What was the first present they ever bought you?

55. What was the best present they ever bought you?

56. And the worst?

57. What was your first fight about?

58. Where was your first holiday?

59. What is the first movie you ever watched together?

60. When did you first realise you were in love?

Relationship questions

61. Who says ‘I love you’ most often?

62. What are you most likely to argue about?

63. Who always gets the last word?

64. Who is usually the first to say ‘I’m sorry’?

65. Who is more likely to start a fight?

66. Who’s more likely to deal with a spider?

67. Who takes the longest to get ready?

68. Who is the funniest?

69. Who has the most amount of exes?

70. Who’s the more clingy person in the relationship?

71. What is their most annoying habit?

72. What’s the most romantic thing they’ve done for you?

73. Who is the better driver?

74. Who is the best cook?

75. Who’s better craic on a night out?

76. Who’s better looking?

77. Who is the better singer?

78. Who is the messy one?

79. Who takes up the most room in bed?

80. Who’s more obsessed with their phone?

81. Who’s more stubborn?

82. Who’s more dramatic?

83. Who is the bad influence?

84. Who is better at spending money?

85. Who does the most housework?

86. Who will be the most hungover after the wedding?

87. What do you love most about them?

88. What do they love most about you?

89. What three words would you use to describe your partner?

90. What words would they use to describe you?

91. Where do you most want to travel together?

Naughty questions

92. How many dates before you had sex?

93. Where is the weirdest place you’ve had sex?

94. What is their favourite position?

95. Are they a boob or a bum person?

96. Who is more adventurous in bed?

97. Who is the noisiest in bed?

98. Who’s more likely to instigate sex?

99. What’s their favourite room to have sex in?

100. What would they most like you to dress up in?

Need help planning the perfect hen party? Head to our directory here where you’ll find the best hen and stag services across Ireland.

The post 100 Questions For The Ultimate Mr & Mrs Wedding Quiz appeared first on Wedding Journal.

If you’re anything like me you’ll have been looking forward to this day for sometime and will no doubt take the planning very, very seriously. Once you’ve booked flights (if you’re jetting off), sorted a venue, planned activities, sent the invites and organised the booze, your attention will likely turn to another hen party staple: the goody bag.

While a goody bag isn’t an essential, it is something that many bridesmaids now like to include. And it can be a nice touch! Not to mention a practical addition to the festivities, and the good news is, filling them full of fun bits and pieces doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here’s what to include in yours:

Painkillers

Not the sexiest of items, but essential all the same and your hens will be thankful for them if they’re hungover or have a whopper headache from travelling or too much prosecco. A small strip of painkillers is enough – you don’t need to give each hen a whole packet of her own.

SPF

£3.50, Etsy

A mini bottle of Suncream can be a nice touch if the hen party is heading abroad or will be outdoors for much of the hen during the summer. Nobody wants a nasty sunburn on the flight or bus journey home. If you want to go the extra mile, consider buying personalised mini bottles with each hen’s name on them. You can decant the suncream (Or hand sanitiser, or whatever you can think of) from a big bottle and pop one into each bag.

Cute cups

£2.95, Etsy

If there’s a must-have hen party essential, it’s surely a drinking vessel, and in recent years, there’s been loads of cute ones to choose from. Whether you’re after pink cardboard cups with ‘Team Bride’ blazoned across them in rose gold writing (like the ones above), or sparkly (plastic) prosecco flutes for drinking your bubbles. One of these for each hen is a good shout.

Badges

£5.50, Etsy

There’s no point throwing a hen party if nobody knows you’re on a hen party. That’s why it’s a good idea to pick up some party badges. The good news is, they’re generally a lot cheaper than hen party sashes too and they can make a cute keepsake too. Our faves are these cute ring-inspired ones from Tiger Feet Creations.

Sweets

Whether it’s a sugar hit before you start drinking or a hangover craving, everyone will be pleased to find a bag of sweets inside their goody bags. You can pick up multipacks of cheap sweets in pretty much every supermarket or bargain store, but if you want to go the extra mile, you can buy your favourites in bulk on Amazon, and then fill vintage-style sweet bags with them.

Personalised tags

£1.50+, Etsy

Who doesn’t love something with their name on it? If you’re adding in a small bottle of prosecco or other mini bottles of booze, consider adorning it with a personalised tag. These ones come with cute straws and a little chocolate treat too.

Advice to the bride-to-be cards

£4.10, Etsy

Not only are these super cute, they are also something lovely for the bride to look back on – and no doubt, you and your hens will have a laugh filling them in. Don’t forget to pack some pens too, and to collect each card when everyone’s finished. You don’t want them to get left behind at the bar!

Plasters

Look, things can get pretty wild on a hen party, and while we’re not suggesting you pack a first aid kit (although if you’re going abroad, please make sure you book travel insurance) we do reckon it’s a good idea to throw some plasters into the goody bag. They’re an instant fix for shoes that rub too.

Photo props

£5.99, Ginger Ray

An essential for every hen party, photo props are sure to get the bride and her hens snapping some selfies – and the good news is, they don’t have to be expensive. If you’re the crafty type, you could even consider making your own.

Mini makeup

£1.69, Etsy

Who doesn’t love a free sample? Practical and cheap, lip balms make the perfect favour. And you can purchase cute ‘Bride Squad’ themed ones too!

How to craft the perfect hen party goody bag

Now that you know what to buy, how do create the perfect hen party goody bag?

Set a budget

It’s easy to lose the run of yourself when planning all the little bits that make a party special, but if you don’t set yourself a spending limit you could end up spending much more than you planned – especially if it’s a large hen party. Decide on what’s affordable for you and stick to it.

Keep an eye out for samples

You’ll find them inside magazines and on beauty counters and if you have a hefty stash of them before the hen party rolls around you could pop them into the goody bags.

Make it personal

One of the most simple – and cheapest – ways to make it all about the bride is to include pics of her in the goody bag. Scour your camera roll and get a bunch printed for each bag. The more cringey the pic the better!

Strike a balance

You’ll want to get the balance right between ‘Just in case’ and ‘Just for fun’. Sort all the essential and practical stuff first, think painkillers and plasters, and then start filtering in all of the cute, fun purchases.

Top it off with confetti

Seriously, a touch of sparkly confetti can make all the difference and will make it look like you really put in an effort.

Planning a hen party and need some help? Head over to our directory here where you’ll find the best suppliers and stack loads of ideas.

The post 10 Budget-Friendly Buys To Put In Your Hen Party Bags appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Loads of brides are gathering with their hen party online and throwing a virtual bash instead, so grab your laptop, smartphone or tablet for the ultimate online shindig.

Getting started

First things first, you’ll want to let your girl gang know what you’re planning. Chances are you already have a designated hen party group, so consult your invitees and find a date that either suits everyone or works for the majority. Then suss out the logistics, like what time you all need to be online, realistically how long your party is going to last and what platform you’ll all be using. Whatever platform you settle on, whether it’s Skype, Houseparty or Zoom, make sure everyone has the software downloaded and ready to go ahead of time.

Plan your playlist

Music makes a party so get together a playlist of your gang’s favourite hits. Are there songs you all remember from college or school? Or hits that bring back memories from a holiday you were all on? If you’re stuck for ideas, ask every member of the group for a song they’d like to hear at the party. That way, there’ll be something on there to cater to everyone’s musical tastes. If you build your playlist on Spotify, it’s easy to share it with the group too.

Grab your drinks

Is everyone going to drink their favourite tipple or are you going to start with a Champagne reception? Are you planning a chill chat with beers or hoping you can unleash your inner mixologists and throw together some cocktails? It might be fun to each pop a bottle, so we say, go for the bubbles! It is a celebration after all.

Organise a theme

Whether you want to go down the traditional penis-themed everything route or your bridesmaids have thought of something individual to you, having a theme can really tie the whole party together, and if your real life bash was almost organised, there’s nothing to stop your incorporating many of the elements you already had planned. Something that involves a little bit of fancy dress could be fun right now to get everyone out of their sweats – but even giving your attendees the excuse to get glam could be a crowd-pleaser. If you aren’t doing fancy dress, be sure to wear white and pop on a veil to mark the occasion.

Begin the games

There are loads of games you can play together online, like Cards Against Humanity, but you don’t need fancy tech to get your game on. Mr And Mrs quizzes are never not fun and Never Have I Ever is a classic for good reason – it gets the giggles going, and even a screen won’t hide everyone’s red faces.

Whether this is your warm-up hen party and you’re planning on celebrating again at a later date, or this is all you can fit in before the big day, a virtual hen party can still be one to remember.

For more info on Coronavirus and hen parties, click here.

The post How To Have A Virtual Hen Party appeared first on Wedding Journal.

The post Coronavirus And Your Hen Party: What You Need To Know appeared first on Wedding Journal.

With all the excitement building for the new six week series and location of the villa, we realised just how good a location South Africa is for a hen party! From luxurious hotels and villas to cool Airbnbs, unique camping sites and adventurous safaris, who wouldn’t want to jet to South Africa like the Islanders and host an unforgettable hen party with their girls? Just take a look at these incredible locations for some major inspo!

Serenity Villa, Cape Town

We love this super stylish villa in Cape Town featuring spectacular mountain and sea views. The six bedroom, open planned villa boasts an outdoor swimming and hot tub, you’ll really be living it up like an Islander while staying at this villa! And just think how amazing the sunsets would be – bliss!

Tanda Tula Safari Camp

Immerse yourself in nature and live on the wild side by staying at this amazing safari camp situated within the Greater Kruger National Park. Offering all-inclusive luxury tented accommodation with views of the riverbed and an outdoor pool overlooking the near by watering hole, hosting your hen party here will definitely be unforgettable!

Livingstone Villa, Wilderness

With soft, plush furnishings, this villa in Wilderness is the perfect place for you and your girls to have some hen party fun combined with luxury! Livingstone is uniquely situated in Wilderness Heights with breathtaking panoramic views across the Indian Ocean, so be prepared for some seriously impressive sunsets!

Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa

Live it up like a celeb at this hotel and spa resort in Johannesburg. Located in a tranquil suburb of Sandton, with a Balinese-style spa, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa is the perfect choice if you’re in need of some much needed pampering! The spa features a heated plunge pool, a spa bath, Chinese daybeds and pod swing chairs, as well as steam rooms and a sauna.

Blue Views Villas and Apartments, Cape Town

This Cape Town villa is perfect for those wanting to be close to the secluded Bakoven beaches which is just 100m away. Stylish and contemporary, the Blue Views Villas and Apartments offers modern, fully furnished self-catering accommodation and is within easy walking distance of the world famous Camps Bay beachfront with its vibey restaurants and bars.

The post Love Island Themed Villas For Your Hen Party appeared first on Wedding Journal.

We’ve all been there before. Jetted off somewhere and realised halfway through the plane journey you left your charger at home. But fear not, we have created a list of items you need to pack for your ‘do. Don’t go anywhere before reading this!

Sun Cream

Heading to the beach? Planning on lounging by the pool or spending a lot of time in the sun? If you’re travelling to a warm climate, it is so important to pack high quality SPF and sun-cream. Nobody wants to be peeling off burnt skin on their hen do!

Passport & Travel Documents 

Your passport is by far the most important thing to pack! So if you’re travelling beyond the Ireland and the UK, make sure you don’t forget it. However, your passport isn’t the only travel document to take on your hen do – don’t forget things like accommodation confirmation emails and your travel insurance policy. You never know when you might need them.

Foreign Currency

If you’re heading to Europe or across the pond, you’ll need to make sure you have enough and the correct foreign currency to keep you going. Yes, you can always fall back on your bank card if you haven’t quite brought enough cash with you, but there may be hidden charges. Go to the Bureau de Change before you leave to get some spare cash and be on the safe side!

Outfits 

It’s best to be organised so pre-plan your outfits before you go! Make sure you pack suitable clothing such as shorts, t-shirts and light outfits if you’re going somewhere hot or suitable clothing such as jackets and jumpers if you’re going on a ski hen do. Also make sure to pack comfortable clothes for the days where you’ll be feeling a tad fragile!

Custom Printed T-Shirts  

A hen party would not be complete without customised t-shirts! No self-respecting hen party would be complete without them, so make sure you have t-shirts uniquely printed with the name of bride before you jet off to give you hen a more individual touch. We love this personalised t-shirt from Hen Party Superstore.

Accessories & Decorations 

Make sure you don’t forget to pack your hen essentials! Any decorations or  accessories you’ve pulled together will need to be packed securely into your case, so they don’t get damaged. You could risk it and fit them into your hand luggage, so you know they’re safe – but beware, something a bit naughty may slip out going through the baggage scanner!

Gifts & Games 

Want to inject a little more fun into your hen party abroad? Why not be a little more creative with your hen entertainment – organise some beach games, have a cocktail making competition or arrange a series of presents for the bride-to-be to find in various locations around the resort or hotel.

Flat Shoes  

If you’re jetting off for a jam-packed city break, you’re going to need some comfy shoes to see you through. While it’s fine to pack heels for nights out, opt for flats instead to save your feet from some intense pain through the day.

Make-Up & Skincare

We all know how great it feels to get dolled up, so remember to pack all your make-up essentials when off on a hen party abroad. Whether it’s your favourite lippie, eye shadow palette or mascara that makes you feel great about yourself, make sure you don’t forget them!

Medical Supplies 

We all know that one friend who is destined to have a blister or twist her ankle five minutes into the trip, so packing a medical kit with you is an absolute essential!  Whether it’s painkillers for that inevitable hangover or plasters for those painful blisters, a medical kit will be a God send.

Chargers 

We are all slaves to technology and when going anywhere never mind hen parties, we are constantly using our mobile phones and other devices. So when you’re abroad, make sure you bring a charger for all your electronics to save you any inconvenience.

Adaptors

Probably one of the most easily forgotten items that often gets overlooked, make sure you bring an adpator to any country of the UK and Ireland as pretty much every country has a different plug socket! You don’t want to arrive at the hotel or accomodation to realise you can’t charge your phone when it only has 1% battery left!

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Need more help and inspiration for planning your big day? SAVE at The Wedding Journal Show Belfast at the TEC Belfast on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th October.  Book your tickets here!

The post What To Pack For Your Hen Party Abroad appeared first on Wedding Journal.

We’ve collected our favourite resorts from across the emerald isle that all golf and Guiness fans will adore.

Royal Portrush Golf Club

Architect Harry Colt believes this championship course to be his finest work after he followed the natural contours and dunes for his design. This year it’s home to the 148th Open Championship, one of just four major title golf competitions each year. Golf legends of all ages will compete this July on the renowned Dunluce Links.

The location of the course, on the breezy Atlantic coast, makes for wonderful playing conditions like none other. You never know who you might bump into either, with professionals golfers such as Rory McIlroy, Darren Clarke, and Graham McDowell often spotted there.

Stags can stay at the Portrush Atlantic Hotel and enjoy a fun, relaxing evening at the Ramore Winebar before a night out at Kelly’s Lush club to relive your youth!

Killarney Golf and Fishing Club

Consisting of two stunning courses, Killarney Golf and Fishing Club sits at the mouth of Killarney National Park. The Killeen course hosted the 2010 and 2011 Irish Open and golf champion Padraig Harrington is a fan of the spectacular course.

The breathtaking 18th hole on the Mahony’s Points course is one of the most pictured in the world and has been become known as Heaven’s Reflex.

Stags can stay at Killarney Park Hotel and take advantage of the local eclectic nightlife. Don’t miss out on visiting McSorley’s, it’s the perfect spot for the ultimate stag-do.

READ MORE: Stag-Do Etiquette You Need To Know

Fota Island Resort

For those aiming to challenge their golfing technique, the three courses, Deerpark, Belvelly and Barryscourt, offer just that. Surrounded by gorgeous parkland and tall oak trees, golfers can put their skills to the test at the resort that hosted the 2014 Irish Open. The courses are shaped by natural parkland and manicured to perfection, with exciting and challenging features.

There’s the stay and play option for stags wanting to make a weekend of it with the resort’s outdoor activities such as archery and zorbing!

Malahide Golf Club

North of Dublin sits the picturesque seaside village of Malahide, home to Ireland’s oldest course. Recently celebrating 125 years, Malahide Golf Club is described as a ‘gem in a parkland course.’ Each round plays host to a variety of shots with tactically placed flora and fauna. With views of the majestic Wicklow Mountains and Howth Head to inspire you its no wonder this course played a leading role in the development of Irish golf.

Stags can stay 10 minutes from the course at The Grand Malahide, well-known for their hearty Irish breakfast.

TREND ALERT: Groomswear brand Benetti launch exclusive new SS19 collection

Slieve Russell Hotel, Golf & Country Club

Voted No.1 Best Golf Resort in Ulster 2018, the four star Slieve Russell Hotel and Ciuin Spa in Ballyconnell Co. Cavan, offers an 18-hole championship golf course; the perfect setting to celebrate with mates before the big day. This course presents a wonderful challenge and the devilishly tricky greens make for competitive and enjoyable play.

At the end of the day, your stag group can then kick back and relax at the award-winning Setanta restaurant or the cosy Kells Bar to top off what is sure to be an amazing weekend. Fine dining, superb drinks and luxury accommodation is guaranteed at the Slieve Russell on your golfing adventure.

Lough Erne Resort

This is truly the ultimate 36-hole golf experience! Featuring two championship golf courses including the renowned Faldo Course designed by six time major winner Sir Nick Faldo. There’s also the unique opportunity to hone in on your skills at their Golf Academy, or practice at their all-weather driving range.

Ideal for a golfing stag you can combine a round on The Faldo Course and Castle Hume, which has hosted an unprecedented 10 Ulster PGA Championships with some of Ireland’s best links and parkland courses nearby!

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We’ve got all the hottest hen and stag resorts and packages at our upcoming Wedding Journal Show this Autumn!

Tickets are selling out fast – book yours TODAY!

The post Ireland’s Most Stag-gering Golf Retreats appeared first on Wedding Journal.

They differ from hen parties as the tone is more sophisticated, hosted at home with décor, includes Afternoon Tea and gifts. The aim of a bridal shower is to help the bride-to-be to relax and spend quality time with friends and family members who wouldn’t be comfortable at a hen party. The bride is ‘showered’ with gifts, usually of the house variety and often toasts are made in her honour – it’s not surprising brides love them – and every one saves a bit of money too with not having to dish out for hen party activities.

One person who knew exactly how to throw the best bridal shower was Katherine Schwarzenegger’s mother, Maria Shriver. Katherine announced her engagement to Chris Pratt in January and attended her bridal shower at her mum’s Los Angeles home at the weekend. So how did Maria throw this envy-worthy bridal shower?

The Date

Most bridal showers are held between six months to a week before the wedding, with the most common being between four to eight weeks before the big day. This gives enough anticipation without causing stress to the bride. So, are wedding bells drawing nearer for Katherine and Chris? We can’t wait!

Guests

Only those invited to the wedding should be invited to the bridal shower. Guests are usually female in majority but more recently showers have become a celebration of the bride and groom, but okay that with the groom first! It would beneficial to get a copy of the guest list for the wedding day. Maria invited a staggering 100 guests to the stunning shower, including Oprah Winfrey. Hubby to be Chris and Katherine’s dad, Arnold, popped in to say hello during the celebration.

Food

The food at bridal showers usually comes in the form of Afternoon Tea styled foods. For Katherine’s guests, they enjoyed lunch in the garden by the pool, where they ate miniature cakes, pastries and ‘fonuts’ – gluten free doughnuts.

Toasts

This can be done before or after the bride has opened her gifts. Katherine was showered with toasts from her friends, sister, mum and even future hubby Chris. Maria’s was perhaps the most moving against Chris’ humour filled one. She told everyone that Katherine was ‘born to love and be loved’ and finished her speech by telling the crowd that ‘the way Chris treats her daughter takes her breath away.’

Décor

This is where the elegance comes in to play, going by Maria’s choice of décor! She donned her house with a white and green colour scheme complemented with a rustic theme, and images of the happy couple hung on a photo wall. Guests were able to relax beside the large cherry blossom arrangements by the pool.

What To Wear

Outfits for a bridal shower are usually quite formal; think cocktail dresses, trouser suits, shirts and trousers for the men. Obviously the bride wears white, helping her stand out and practice being centre of attention for the big day! Katherine stunned in a white fitting dress with fringe decoration and had her brown hair clipped back by an over sized clip.

If this is their bridal shower, we cannot wait to see how their wedding will turn out!

Set Featured Image: Pinterest

The post The Difference Between A Bridal Shower And A Hen Party appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Thankfully, Ireland is filled with many luxurious spa retreats that bride tribes will love. The WJ Team have managed to pick fifteen of the best.

Galgorm Resort and Spa, Co. Antrim

Thirty minutes from the city of Belfast, Galgorm Resort and Spa is the Global Luxury Spa Hotel Of The Year 2018. Its Thermal Village is the first of its kind in Ireland and includes facilities such as a Celtic Sauna, Snow Cabin and Serenity Garden. Guests can relax in the Organery after their treatments with beds and swing chairs to view the tranquil scene of the river and gardens.

Slieve Donard, Co. Down

At the foot of the Mourne Mountains, Slieve Donard spa overlooks the beach and offers floor to ceiling views. Guests can enjoy advanced techniques mixed with ancient therapies. Bride tribes can enjoy a bamboo massage or a Celtic Journey consisting of an ocean wrap and sea shell massage. The Ladies Retreat package will have the bride tribe loving the Rock Sauna and beauty treatments from ESPA.

Farnham Estate and Spa, Co. Cavan

This 44,000 square foot adult only spa is based around its beautiful surroundings. Bride tribes can enjoy treatments using ESPA and Yonka products, such as the Lavender Lullaby. As well as luxurious treatments, step into the wonderful infinity swimming and hydrotherapy pool, a water mint Thermal Suite or Salt Inhalation Room. Found also at Farnham is stream walk or ice fountain, with great health benefits.

Lough Erne Resort, Co. Fermanagh

On the shores of the Fermanagh Lakelands, sits the multi award-winning Lough Erne Resort. Journey East to The Thai Spa with a mixture of traditional Thai treatments such as Thai massage, the Sabai Sabi and Lap Sabai Rooms, as well as more well known treatments. There are many places to relax, most notably the Crystal Aroma Steam Room or Jacuzzi.

The Merchant Hotel, Belfast

In the middle of Northern Ireland’s capital city, The Merchant provides a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle. Relax with a mixture of Voya, Elemis and Cosmedix treatments before drowning out worries in the Hydropool, Thermal Lounger or Steam Room. View the bustling city of Belfast and the surrounding hills from the luxury of a Jacuzzi too! The bride tribe can enjoy full or half day treatments, including beauty treatments too.

Finn Lough Resort, Co. Fermanagh

Twenty miles from the Donegal coast, Finn Lough Resort enshrouds guests in the Element Trail Experience. Designed to award physical efforts, the two-hour spa trail sees guests enjoying all sorts of luxuries, including a salt room with a float pool, lakeside sauna, aromatherapy cabin, hot tub by the bay and a relaxation suite. To reduce crowding, two people enter every thirty minutes, giving plenty of time to indulge!

Rainforest Spa, Co. Wicklow

On the grounds of Summerhill House Hotel is 2019’s most outstanding and wellbeing Irish spa. Rainforest Spa is a modern self-care destination that focuses on nutrition and lifestyle as well as spa treatments, with yoga and Pilates available as well as nutrition coaching. Quite good for brides we think! Chill out in a hot tub overlooking the wondrous Wicklow countryside after the aesthetic and wellness treatments.

Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo

Voted Ireland’s Best Spa 2017 and Spa of the Year 2018, Ashford Castle certainly doesn’t disappoint. With treatments being personalised per guest, ancient wisdom combines with modern expertise. Seashell chandeliers and the Tree of Life Mural offer complete relaxation as guests wander from the Hamman to the terrace area that overlooks one of Ireland’s largest lakes.

Monart Spa, Co. Wexford

As one of the world’s leading spa destinations, Monart Spa offers a state of the art thermal area that is described as the heart of the ‘Monart Experience.’ Based on an ancient heating and cooling bathing, the bride tribe can enjoy heated benches, Hydro pool, a Sanarium, Steam Room, Finnish Sauna and the chilling ice bucket shower in the outdoor log cabin!

Parknasilla Resort and Spa, Co. Kerry

Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ring of Kerry, Parknasilla Spa puts an emphasis on relaxation and therapy, with soothing shades of cream and caramel. Large walk in showers, oversized treatment couches, ice fountain and salt room await for Elemis and Neom treatments. Relax after the Thermal Suite with floor to ceiling panoramic views of Kenmare Bay.

The Johnstown Estate, Co. Meath

Thirty minutes from Dublin City Centre, the Johnstwon Estate is where Georgian grandeur meets modern day indulgence which definitely stretches to the spa! Enjoy Elemis treatments such as facials and massage treatments including Swedish, Lomi Lomi and Lava Shell. As well as that, there’s holistic treatments and beauty rooms. The bride tribe would definitely enjoy a relaxing weekend or day break package!

Kilronan Castle , Co. Roscommon

With it recently being added to, Kilronan Castle is a place not to miss. In fact, it might a place the bride could consider coming with her other half, what with a private mud chamber and steam room or a private chill out suite and Jacuzzi available! As well as that, there’s focus on the hot and cold, with a dry sauna, light steam room and energy pools.

Killashee Hotel and Spa, Co. Kildare

Over thirty minutes from Dublin, this multi award-winning spa also boasts a state of the art gym. Guests can indulge in Elemis treatments that are tailored to personal skin and body types. Guests also have the opportunity to purchase Elemis products to take away with them too. As part of the ‘Girls Day Out’ package, the bride tribe could enjoy an Oriental Chocolate Rasul at Killashee!

Inchydoney Island Lodge and Spa, Co. Cork

The place of the first Seawater Spa in Ireland, Inchydoney Island has been voted the Leading Spa Resort for the seventh time. Seawater treatments include, massage bath, chocolate bath, algae leg wrap and Pressotherapy, with Elemis and Les Luneides Paris used for both Seawater and Signature treatments. The Relaxation Room is flooded with ocean views for days.

Lough Eske Castle, Co. Donegal

Although spa goers must be hotel guests, we don’t see a problem with this at the five-star Lough Eske Castle situated on one of the most beautiful coasts! Take in the mesmerising views while wandering from infinity pool to ice fountain and Thermal Suite. Kick back and relax with Anne Semonin and YonKa products. Bride tribes can easily make a weekend off it here among the rugged Irish coastline.

Set Featured Image: discovernorthernireland.com

The post 15 Top Spa Retreats In Ireland appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Know Your Bride

Yes the hen party may be a surprise, but don’t go into this blindly. Have a rough idea of what the bride likes; if she’s afraid of horses we would suggest avoiding a pony trek! Ask the team of hens is there anywhere she’d really like to go or anything she’d love to do. Before deciding, a key thing to remember is budget, including yours, the bride’s and those attending.

Decide

There are a plethora of options when it comes to hen parties. Some of which are; Afternoon Tea, a make up masterclass, cocktail making, going abroad, an action packed activity or learning exotic dancing! There comes the tough decision of narrowing all the amazing ideas down to either a day or weekend of fun! Always think of the bride, it’s what she would want, not what you’re interested in.

Plan

Once you have decided how you’ll make this a hen party the bride will never forget, it’s time to get planning! Us at Wedding Journal love our to-do lists and recommend it to ensure nothing gets missed. Planners should sit down and make a list of who’s invited and it’s vital to run this list past someone super close to the bride, as you don’t want to miss out on inviting someone they’d love to have! By making lists (and checking them twice), this hen party will go down as smoothly unforgettable.

Group Chat

The digital age is amazing for one thing and that is group chats for occasions such as this. Long gone are the days of letters and phone calls (unless you want to be authentic, of course). A group chat will keep you up to date with all the attendees and it’s a great place to go back to for reference. Tell the group your plan, to keep it hush and suggest a few dates to see what suits everyone best. Use the group chat to send an overview and contact details the week before too.

Set The Date

Once you know the date that suits the majority, it’s time to get booking! If it’s a weekend away, accommodation will need to be sorted, again it’s beneficial to remember the overall budget of the weekend, i.e. how much people are willing to fork out. It’s possible to book affordable but classy accommodations such as B&B’s and AirBnB. Otherwise, get a really good briefing from the activity that you have booked and can confidently tell those attending.

Inform Attendees

The date is set now all you have to do is let everyone know! And also a few other things, such as what they need to pack, any specifics they need to know for the activity, times, locations and anything else you think is applicable.

Collect Money

The un-fun part of planning and hosting is the collecting of money. No one likes a Debby downer so approach the money issue well advance to the actual hen party, you don’t want to be chasing someone in a zorbing outfit for it! By sorting well advance, chances are everyone will have forgot about it and will focus on having fun. Be approachable and explain subtly that the bridesmaids can’t be expected to pay for everyone.

Transport

The hen party might be a journey away and it’s likely you’ll all want to travel together as best you can. A mini-bus could be consider but again this depends on budget. If not, see who is willing to drive and remember to split the petrol bill! Turn it into an awesome road trip. Also, the group chat comes in handy here by sending the specific location.

The Finer Details

There is always going to be the small things that can go unnoticed until last minute, whether it be hen party themed favours (we’re looking at you willy straws) or nice touches the bride would like such as a Polaroid set up for cherished snaps. You can also order hen themed t-shirts or sashes, face masks of their significant other or decorate the venue it’s taking place. Anything that adds a real personal and fun touch to the bride’s hen party!

Roles

If you think it would result in a better run hen party, consider delegating roles among the bridesmaids. Such as one in charge of the group chat, another in charge of money and someone in charge of speaking on the phone with those you’ve booked with (not everyone is a fan!). There’s also other roles for taking care of the finer details, group together and brain storm ideas for hen party games, drinks and all round good fun the bride will love!

Host

The big day is here! Time to put all your hard work into action and be the perfect host. Whether that be through hen party games, taking cool pictures or making sure everyone is having fun. Don’t forget to have fun too, you’re celebrating one of your favourite girls! Give her the send off into married life she deserves with memories she’ll never forget.

Set Featured Image: @myoverseaswedding / Instagram 

The post How To Plan The Perfect Hen Party appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Here are fifteen different Insta worthy locations for any type of hen, from busy nightlife to high tea!

Galway Glamping

An hour’s drive from Galway city is Pod Umna Village, set in the heart of Portumna town. Here, they offer an amazing Hen Party Package featuring cocktail making, travel to Galway city for a night of dancing, pampering, racing and more! Turn in each night in one of their Insta worthy, chic glamping pods and you’ve got yourself a great girly weekend with your Galway Girls!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlQm9oQFCiG/

Carlingford

Carlingford, Co Louth offers everything from peaceful, to adventurous to downright mischief. For those in the mood to keep it easy, there’s wine tasting, cooking demos and cocktail mixing and for those wanting to burn some energy, there’s an array of water sports alongside zorbing, laser tag and more. The more mischievous might enjoy the pole dancing, live nude painting and an Ann Summers demonstration. All the while taking in the scenic shots. Who knew there was so much was in one sleepy coastal town?

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Taffe's Castle, Carlingford, Co Louth with Slieve Foye in the background……….. . . #irishwalking #paulegantrim #village #gameofthrones #carlingfordtourism #carlingfordlough #ireland #irish #loveireland #photography #walkni #mountains #visitireland #irlande #irelandcalling #neverstopexploring #instaireland #irlanda #discoverni #ireland #insta_ireland #inspireland_ #loves_ireland #irish #northernireland #carlingford #mournemountains #themournes #slievefoye

A post shared by Paul Egan (@irishwalking) on Jan 28, 2019 at 2:37am PST

Belfast

Northern Ireland’s capital city thrives with culture, craic and class! Here you and the girls can enjoy dance classes before taking a walk down Cathedral Quarter, visit the world famous site of the Titanic before hitting the town in amazing clubs and bars like The Dirty Onion and Limelight! There’s also spa treatments to avail of or outdoor activities to enjoy too.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BWzifodFlfG/

Dublin

For a weekend filled with laughter, why not take part in the Dublin Treasure Hunt? It’s a fantastic way to see Ireland’s capital city as well as bonding with your girls! There’s Temple Bar, Guinness Factory, Dublin Castle, Trinity College and much more to see on this two hour activity. Perfect for them Insta shots too! Hens can then finish the night off with a pub crawl or laughing their socks off at a comedy club.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl276rNAHet/

Powerscourt Resort and Spa

If a weekend on the town is far off your radar, there is always a spa retreat! Powerscourt Resort and Spa in Co. Wicklow boasts not only amazing views, but stunning architecture as well. You and the girls can enjoy luxury treatments, afternoon tea and, if you need to burn some energy, there are group activities on site.

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Early Morning Sunshine! #powerscourthotel #Sunday #summerishere #wicklow #gardenofireland #seantressonphotography

A post shared by Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa (@powerscourthotel) on May 20, 2018 at 2:00am PDT

Inis Oirr

For a more traditional trip, the Arran Island of Inis Oirr will bring an Irish lass back to her roots with pony rides, free running chickens and forts. In the evening there are many traditional pubs for a jig or two! Don’t worry, you and the girls won’t have to squat in an old hut for the night, there is the Aran Islands Hotel that offers a great hen party package! Make sure to spot a lighthouse or two.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BpphnE7HkaB/

Carrick-on-Shannon

Make the trip one to remember with jewellery making, pottery painting and other sentimental pieces handmade by your girls! Or, if that’s not up your street there is always the ‘Culchie Craic Hen‘ booze cruise for the inner country girls on the River Shannon or the Dragon Boat Experience. All the while, there’s plenty of opportunities to snap great pics!

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bkh6IHuFzX2/

Co. Fermanagh

Water loving brides will love the views from the Fermanagh lakelands and her troop will love snapping them even more! There’s an array of water sports activities and the county town of Enniskillen boasts gorgeous restaurants and bars. There’s a range of places to stay from the luxurious Lough Erne Resort to glamping at Finn Lough.

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Beautiful Enniskillen Castle, opened all year round to visit, plan your trip to @fermanaghlakelands today . . . . .#sayhellotoFermanagh #enniskillencastle #enniskillen #visitni #visitfermanagh #discoverni #visitireland #loveni #lovefermanagh #explore #instadaily #discoverireland #fermanaghlakelands

A post shared by Fermanagh Lakelands (@fermanaghlakelands) on Jan 14, 2019 at 4:04am PST

Hot Air Balloon

Want an activity your bride-to-be will never forget? Well then how about a trip up a hot hair balloon! Hot Air Balloon Flights features a fantastic hen package that holds up to sixteen passengers. See Ireland in a way you never have before – it’s also great way to the ultimate selfie for Instagram!

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Lovely flight from Trim Castle with the frost and mist on the River Boyne.

A post shared by Irish Balloon Flights (@hotairflights) on Feb 6, 2017 at 9:15am PST

The Burren

The rugged landscape of the Burren is located near the Cliffs of Moher, Father Ted’s House and Connemarra National Park – all of which are totally Insta worthy! Adventure loving brides will love the cave tours, hill walks, kayaking and more. Hens will love the quaint little village of Doolin too! There’s also a really fun game called Finding Ted…

https://www.instagram.com/p/Btk9_AnhKKc/

Tralee

Following the adventure theme, Tralee, Co Kerry boasts beautiful scenes unique to Ireland. Much like Carlingford, this quiet town will surprise you with garter making, chocolate making and everything hens would want. Being by the seaside will definitely give great Insta opportunities!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BtosYI5FTbz/

Wild Atlantic Way Roadtrip

Starting at Malin Head, Ireland’s most northerly point, and following the world famous trail to the Haven Coast for southern spirit, and you have a road trip that will leave all your Instagram followers green with envy! There will be no shortage of pit stops and pubs for hen fun along the way.

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There are plenty of key sights to catch along the Wild Atlantic Way, but the real gems can be found along your way from one to the other. How stunning is this shot of Doolough Pass in Mayo? #DooloughPass #Mayo #WildAtlanticWay #DiscoverIreland

A post shared by Wild Atlantic Way (@thewildatlanticway) on Feb 3, 2019 at 3:00am PST

Ballyknocken, Co. Wicklow

Ballyknocken House, Farm and Cookery School will be a great way to spend a weekend with the girls! The four star Victorian house will not only accommodate you for the weekend but also offer an expert cooking class for all ages. Their hen package also offers activities such as archery, off road driving, sheep herding and more. A laughter-filled weekend is guaranteed.

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Beautiful blue skies here @ballyknockenhouse this morning. #catherinefulvio #fresh #giftvouchers #ballyknockenrecipes #food #guesthouse #cookeryschool

A post shared by Ballyknocken Cookery School (@ballyknocken) on Dec 7, 2018 at 2:04am PST

Clonard House, Mullingar

Really keeping with the Victorian theme is Clonard House, Mullingar. Hen parties don the dresses of servants on arrival and take part in ‘chores’ such a chamber pot races before transforming into the ladies of the manor for afternoon tea and other niceties. The only thing not the same is the ability to put it all on Instagram.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BFwdLlYSTib/

Kilkenny

History loving brides will love exploring the oldest town in Ireland! Hen parties can tour the medieval castle dressed up as a witch or other medieval character. There’s also interests for sporty brides too, with the town being a hurling stronghold and rugby boat tours that teach the Haka.

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Go back in time with one of the most historic cities #OneKilkenny #history #medieval #castle

A post shared by Kilkenny Tourism (@visitkilkenny) on Feb 6, 2019 at 8:52am PST

Set Featured Image: @henparty.ie / Instagram

The post 15 Insta Worthy Hen Party Ideas Around Ireland appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Where to stay

With so many hotels and apartments to choose from, especially when on a budget, San Antonio is the number one choice for any bride-to-be. There is plenty to do and see throughout the day; pool parties, boat excursions to nearby bays and water sport activities.

In the evening crowds head to the sunset strip, popular spots include Café Mambo, Savannah Beach Club and Café Del Mar. There is a constant buzz, and it’s a great spot to mix with lots of young folk from all parts of the world.

Things to do

The day time is usually spent recovering from the night before, followed by relaxing by the pool or on a beach. For the more energetic hen and her chicks, there are an abundance of cool water activities. The Mediterranean climate is particularly pleasant in the summer, with hot and dry weather from June to September.

There is a more sophisticated vibe in the port Marina Botafoch and across the bay, where the upgraded old port is flattered by a display of millionaires and their super yachts.

So many businesses in Ibiza offer great packages exclusive to Hen and Stag parties, such as Cocktail Masterclasses, Karaoke, Horse Riding and Quad Biking.

It’s definitely worth visiting Ibiza town whilst on the island for a spot of R+R. Ladies will be spoilt for choice in Ibiza town with shops and boutiques, as well as side street restaurants and tapas bars.

What to wear

The tradition for most hen parties is that the bride wears white, and her chicks go uniform in another colour. When celebrating in Ibiza, why not opt for white swimwear. This season’s hottest summer trend for days spent by the pool is the one piece swim suit. You can still be sexy in the sun, why not try a lower neckline, or some mesh paneling.

When out for dinner and cocktails, why not try a floaty dress, that way you can enjoy plenty of pasta and pizza, it’s your hen party, be naughty. This Topshop dress looks comfortable but effortlessly chic.

For the club appearances and crazy after parties, this sexy white dress from Missguided is perfect!

Little Touches

Whether it’s a bag of themed items to use throughout the holiday or a care package to help everyone survive the weekend (and the potential hangover), your guests will love receiving a bag of goodies to help get them into the party spirit.

Online sites such as Ginger Ray and Not on the High Street have a host of bride tribe accessories that can add a touch of sparkle to your celebration.

Ibiza is the perfect island for any modern and stylish hen –  with a raving daytime party scene, countless chart-topping DJs playing on poolside stages,  and an endless coastline full of chill out beaches.

Set Featured Image Credit – Billie Faiers (@billiefaiersofficial) Instagram

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Wedding Planning Duties

Once the bride has decided on her bridesmaids, the maid of honour should start helping the bride with some of the planning duties. The bride might ask you to come wedding dress shopping with her, or ask for input on choosing the bridesmaid dresses.

As the maid of honour, you’re leading the rest of the bridesmaids so make sure they’re all organised. Help to round everyone up for dress shopping sessions and for fittings. Take some stress off the bride by planning the itinerary for any dress shopping days out – look for a fun place to go for lunch and if you need to book appointments at any of the salons.

Be her right-hand woman

The final few moments before a bride walks down the aisle can be her most nerve-wracking, so do your best to help keep her calm. Make it clear to everyone that you should be the first point of call when things go wrong, and only get the bride involved in true emergencies – she doesn’t need to know that the cake topper has gone missing or that the best man’s zip has just broken. Shield her from stresses at all costs and she’ll be eternally grateful afterwards.

Be assertive

The bride will want you to be honest with her, and as maid of honour it can fall to you to represent the bridesmaids in discussions. If the bride has chosen bridesmaid dresses that you all hate, for example, bring this up with her gently but clearly at the earliest opportunity. Be diplomatic – suggest some alteration ideas, and begin with ‘we would feel more happy and confident if…’

You should try your utmost to be available for all important appointments. If you can’t make it, be genuine and apologetic – try not to give the bride the impression that her big day doesn’t matter to you.

Organise the hen night

One of the maid of honour’s most important jobs on the run up to the big day is organising the hen do. If you have no clue where to begin, a good way to start is by asking the bride what sort of day she wants and who she’d like to invite. This can differ hugely – she might want a classy afternoon tea or spa day which her mother and grandma can come to, or a drunken night at a cabaret that’s strictly friends only – so it’s far safer to ask if you’re not sure.

Be a bridesmaid ALL day

You are the maid of honour from the moment you wake up on the big day of the wedding to the moment you go to bed. Don’t forget about your duties after the ceremony is done and dusted – continue to be helpful throughout the reception and evening. You should be the one getting signatures for the guest book, making sure the suppliers have been paid and that granny has caught her taxi home.

Remind the groom

As a conduit between the bride and her groom, you can remind him of romantic little touches that you know for a fact that the bride wants but is too embarrassed to ask for. Gently suggest that writing her a love note on the morning of the wedding would be a great idea, or that if he’s feeling flush that something with a little sparkle wouldn’t go amiss!

Offer to pay

Although traditionally the bride should pay for the bridesmaids dresses, we appreciate that budgets these days have become a little tighter. If you know your bride is struggling with funds, offer to pay for a part of your outfit, such as the dress, shoes or accessories. Even if she insists on paying for everything, the gesture will mean you’re more likely to get the things you want and the bride will love you for your generosity.

Ward off jitters

Many brides will start to panic that they haven’t made the right decisions in the last few weeks. Banish all talk of ‘have I got the right dress?’ and ‘is the venue good enough?’ and reassure her that she’s made the right choices. If she’s seriously having second thoughts, talk it through calmly with her and make sure she’s thinking rationally before making any major changes.

If you live close to the bride and groom, why not surprise them with a few essentials for the fridge for when the newlyweds return from their honeymoon? If you’re feeling particularly generous, you could always leave a bottle of chilled Champagne in there as a special treat!

After the Wedding

If the newlyweds jet off on honeymoon straight away, you might be asked to help out by returning any hired clothes or accessories and by storing the bride’s dress until she’s back and ready to collect it. You may also be needed to help remove decorations etc. from the wedding venue.

Help your BFF on the way to finding her dream dress by checking out our local recommended wedding suppliers in Ireland and Northern Ireland. For the latest in bridal fashion in Northern Ireland, follow our link to our directory HERE. 

The post You’ve Been Chosen As A Maid Of Honour – Congratulations! appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Over the weekend, Rosie celebrated her hen party with her stylish bride tribe in lavish fashion, giving us all some serious hen party goals. The mum of one hosted the celebration for her hens with a spot of afternoon tea and drinks at House in Dublin, before hitting the town and heading to popular nightclub and bar Sophie’s in Dublin.

A post shared by Rosie Connolly (@rosieconxxx) on Apr 8, 2018 at 3:51am PDT

Rosie’s closest friends and family were in attendance, as well as fellow bloggers including Lauren Arthurs, Grace Mongey, James Patrice, Louise Cooney, Niamh Cullen and Aideen Kate.

There certainly was no expense spared for the occasion, as the venue was decorated to hen party perfection, with personalised balloons, party props, instant cameras and custom cocktails! With a rose gold, pink and floral theme, the bridesmaids were also decked out in ‘bride tribe’ black t-shirts to fully embrace the celebrations!

Lots of love To the prettiest hen there was @rosieconxxx Can’t wait for the big day! #cocktailoclock #henweekend #rosieshen

A post shared by Lauren Arthurs (@lovelauren_eu) on Apr 7, 2018 at 11:27am PDT

The bride-to-be and Dublin fashionista chose to wear not one, but TWO stunning outfits for the occasion. For her afternoon brunch, Rosie opted for a sensational embellished jumpsuit with plunging neckline that definitely brought some daytime glamour! For the evening, she chose an elegant and classic white lace mini dress with a white floral crown, veil and gold strappy heels.

What’s a bride without a white lace dress?! Ready for round 2 I’m so overwhelmed today and having the best day ever with my favorite people #RosiesHens #RosieGold #BrideToBe

A post shared by Rosie Connolly (@rosieconxxx) on Apr 7, 2018 at 12:06pm PDT

Coincidently, Rosie is set to marry her long term love Paul Quinn on May 19^th – the same day as the royal wedding of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry! And the couple have enlisted the help of Frog Prince Events to help bring their dream day to life. She said “They knew our style, so came back with something very laid back, with a little bit of glamour. It’s all about the candles, flowers and lighting for me”.

We know Rosie will make a gorgeous bride! We can’t wait to see the photos.

Set Featured Image Credit: @rosieconxxx Instagram

The post Blogging bride-to-be Rosie Connolly Celebrates Hen Party appeared first on Wedding Journal.

Here are some game ideas to get you started.

Drink Reception Icebreaker

Open your hen party with a drinks reception, serving a glass of wine or Prosecco. Before everyone arrives, write a range of topics and stick these to the bottom of the glasses, for example, “first dates”.

Once the hens finish their drink, they must turn over the glass to reveal the topic and begin this conversation with the person on their left. This is a great way to get everyone chatting, leaving you time to start preparing the next activity.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”67801″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

The Baby Photo Game

Get each of your hens to arrive with a picture of themselves as babies. Then pin/tack them onto a wall where the bride-to-be will be asked to guess who the baby picture belongs to. Make it more interesting by introducing dares for each one she gets wrong.

Pass The Buck (Garter)

This game requires an element of stealth from each of the hens and can be played throughout the whole night. Let everyone know at the beginning of the event that a Wedding Garter will be passed around in secret amongst the hens.

The aim of the game, if you have the Garter, is to pass it on to someone else without them noticing. You can slip into each other’s pockets, in the backs of dresses or under bags. By the end of the night, whoever has the item is crowned the looser. They have to do a forfeit of your choosing!

Phrase Dropping

Like the Garter game, this one requires an amount of secrecy. Before the hens arrive, write silly phrases on a handful of cards and distribute them secretly amongst about a third of hens. The chosen few must drop these awkward phrases into the conversation as naturally as possible, and without getting caught.

Whoever can drop their phrase the most without attracting attention, wins.

This might sound easy, so be sure make your phrases nice and quirky. For instance “well, we should ask for the neighbour’s opinion, I think”, or “but what has that got to do with the price of cheese”.

Where We First Met

When the hens arrive at the party, ask them where they first met the bride-to-be and write down the answers in a notebook. It’s important that one person writes all the answers because, at some point in the party, the bride-to-be will be handed the notebook and asked read out the answers, while identifying who the person is.

An alternative version of the game is to get each of the hens to bring an item of significance. Then the bride-to-be has to guess who brought the item and why.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”67800″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

Taskmaster

Create 10-20 cards and write silly commands on each of them. For example, “talk as fast as possible”, “pigeon step when walking”, “circle on the spot whenever someone says your name”. Hand these out to each of your hens on arrival. They are to carry out their secret task throughout the night until the other hens spot their task and call them on it. Anyone who calls out a wrong task gets a forfeit and the winner is the last hen to have her task unidentified.

BFFs

How well do the hens know the bride-to-be? Find out with this trivia game. Think up questions to ask about the bride, such as where she grew up, school and career. Think about her ‘favourites,’ for example her favourite song, makeup, hobbies etc. The bride should hand out pens and papers for the quiz and read out the questions, hens should swap pages to mark them so there is no cheating and any ridiculous answers will be seen.

Poker face

After a few drinks get your hens together in a group and tell them not to laugh or smile. The hen says ‘Ha’ ‘Ho’ or ‘Hee’ first, then each girl in the group take turns to say the words while keeping a straight face. If anyone laughs or smiles they are out, battle it out until you get a winner.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image source=”external_link” external_img_size=”full” alignment=”center” custom_src=”http://weddingjournalonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Hen-Party-3.jpg”][vc_column_text]

Barred words

Pick a selection of words that no one in the hen do group is allowed to say throughout the hen weekend or night. Anyone who says the barred word is fined with a shot or dare. The groom’s name, ‘boyfriend’, ‘husband’, and ‘children’ often trip people up.

A Tight Race

To play this game, you need a bunch of tights and a load of cheap oven gloves. It’s really simple and bound to get the hens in hysterics. Gather the girls around the pile of tights and their task is simply to pull on the tights while wearing the mitts. It’s virtually impossible so don’t worry about prizes for the winners!

Prosecco Pong

You’ve all heard of Beer Pong, or at least seen it played in some American High School film? Well, this is the same, only played with Prosecco! For those not in the know, you set up large plastic cups, fill them with a little Prosecco and the objective is to throw Ping-Pong balls into the cups. Your opponent then has to drink the Prosecco from the cup the ball landed in.

Here’s a video to give you the idea.

This party classic always “goes down” well…!

Toilet paper couture

Ask for a few hens to volunteer to model, the rest of the ladies should be put into teams. The task is to create a dream wedding dress out of toilet paper in 10 minutes.

While the model is strutting her stuff in front of the judges one member of each team has to explain a little about their design and where they got inspiration from.

Blankety Blank

As chief hen, your job is to write down a number of fun facts about the bride, leaving out an all-important word. For instance, “When she was 17 years old, Jess got in trouble for [BLANK] down the high street.” Or, “when travelling overseas, Amy found her new love for [BLANK].” The hen party guests have to fill in the missing blanks, with prizes for those who guess them correctly.

Peggy Sue

One member of the hen party is given a clothes peg to start the game. The aim is for the person to stick the peg onto someone in the bar without them noticing. Once it’s attached shout Peggy Sue. Then another hen is nominated to get the peg off the person in question and attach it another stranger without either party noticing.

Bring extra pegs as props in case your pegs get found and confiscated![/vc_column_text][vc_single_image source=”external_link” external_img_size=”full” alignment=”center” custom_src=”http://weddingjournalonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/Hen-Party-1.jpg”][vc_column_text]

Liar, liar – Version 1

A tried and tested classic, each of the hens has to tell a true story about the bride, as well as a made up one. The party and everyone else has to guess which is the truth. The stories can be nice or as nasty as you like – we think, the more cringe-worthy the better.

Liar, liar – Version 2

Hens are asked to say three statements about themselves and form a circle. Each hen takes turns reading out their statements and it’s up to the rest of the hen to figure out which two are true and which one is the lie.

Mini Treasure Hunt

Whilst, treasure hunts can be tricky to plan, they always go down well. To begin with, pick a range of wedding/hen themed items like Love Hearts, or photos. Then write clues for each of the items such as “Let’s hope the wedding video doesn’t appear on you’ve been framed” (the answer being “photo”) before hiding the items around the house.  When hiding the items, it’s best to put them in places where they don’t belong! The hen’s job is to match the clues with the items.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”67798″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

Balloon Questions

Get each of the hens to write a question on a small piece of paper. Then insert the question into a balloon before inflating. At random intervals throughout the evening, get the bride-to-be to pop a balloon and answer the question inside.

There’s no need to hold back! You can ask anything to make her squirm. If she fails to answer the question, you can always propose a forfeit

Burgers

For this game, you need post-it notes, sellotape and a pen. Split the hen party in equal groups and take it in turns to write down any ingredient that you would find in a burger. Each group should mix up their ingredients and put them in the middle of the circle, when the quiz master says ‘It’s burger time’ the hens have to scramble to pick an ingredient and arrange themselves in the correct order of a burger. The group that makes the perfect burger first wins. The quizmaster must then inspect the burger to see if the ingredients are in the correct order if not the team get disqualified.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Try not to overdo it and cram all these games in one night! Pick and mix your favourites depending on the style of the hen party. Whichever you go with, you’re guaranteed to have a great party and one that you’ll all be giggling about for years to come.

Are you tasked with arranging the most memorable stag or hen do ever? Give yourself a break and take a look at our directory. We have a great list of Hen & Stag Party suppliers in Belfast.

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Well in the Garden, Cliff at Lyons

The luxury Well in the Garden Spa is set in the beautifully restored Carriage House building at Cliff at Lyons. The two-storey building was lovingly renovated and includes three treatment rooms, a manicure/pedicure suite and a large relaxation space.
Mirroring the lush green countryside setting and botanically focused treatment menu, the interior features sophisticated floral patterns, encouraging guests to reconnect with nature and relax the body, mind and soul. The treatment offering is crafted to provide one-of-a-kind relaxing and nourishing experiences like Peat for the Feet, Hug of the Hands Massage and a Hot Towel Head & Scalp Ritual.

Luxe Spa, Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford

Discover the true meaning of a spa break in the peace and tranquillity of the Luxe Spa. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Luxe Spa treatments have been designed to encourage total comfort and well-being. The team of experienced and highly qualified therapists are on hand to guide you through your spa journey using modern and ancient therapies. Why not really treat yourself and book a spa treatment and a delectable afternoon tea or perhaps a spa treatment followed by a light lunch.

Icon Spa, Castle Dargan Estate

Icon Spa at Castle Dargan with its panoramic views of the stunning Sligo countryside is perfect place to rest, relax and rejuvenate. The facilities, products and treatments combined create the most soothing sensory delight. Using VOYA spa therapies and products, the relaxing facials and massages will soothe away all of your tension and stress. Or perhaps you’d rather try balneotherapy or dry flotation!

River Spa, Falls Hotel & Spa

The River Spa is considered to be one of the finest spas in Ireland. There are over 50 incredible spa treatments to choose from including facials, massages, body wraps, dry floats, body scrubs and mud treatments. Using Elemis and VOYA products, the spa’s 12 treatment rooms have wonderful views over the River Inagh and woodlands surrounding the hotel. Their relaxation room is pure bliss and is a real hideaway from the rest of the world! Spa guests have access to the 20metre swimming pool, jacuzzi, hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna and the wonderful outdoor hot tub. You can also indulge in a lovely afternoon tea to round off the experience.

Lough Erne Spa, Lough Erne Resort

The multi award-winning Lough Erne Spa experience takes guests further afield to Thailand! Using traditional Thai therapies and luxurious Espa treatments and products, the team of expertly trained Thai and European therapists, use award-winning spa products to deliver a truly world-class spa experience.Featuring ten spacious Thai inspired treatment rooms , the journey East begins by unwinding in the Crystal Aroma Steam Room, Light Therapy Sauna and Tropical Rain Shower. Ahead of your spa treatment rest in Sabai Sabai Room, meaning ‘Health & Happiness’ (Light Relaxation area) and afterwards in the Lap Sabai Room, meaning ‘Deep Sleep’(Deep Relaxation area).

Shore Island Spa, Lough Rea Hotel & Spa

Shore Island Spa offers you a unique opportunity to relax, unwind and take time out. Set in an oasis of calm, the exquisite Spa promises an experience of complete relaxation and indulgence. Lie back and let their professional therapists pamper you in a haven of tranquility. They use specialised Yon-Ka treatments to care for your every need from advanced facials, hot stone therapy, essential body massages, and much, much more. The thermal suite includes an aromatherapy sauna room, steam room, tropical experience shower, soothing foot spas, jacuzzi, sanarium and light and dark relaxation rooms which is sure to leave you in a deep sense of relaxation and contentment.

Looking for other spa destinations near you – click here

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