We know how stressful planning a stag/hen do can be. Believe us, we’ve been there! Trying to organise a bunch of independent adults with different work schedules and life commitments can be a nightmare. You have the non-communicator, the non-payer, the price negotiator (“how much if I only stay one night?”), the one who knows best and the unrealistic one who always wants to go to Vegas. So we composed a checklist that might help you to maintain your sanity and prevent you from eventually hating everyone you’re planning to go away with…
“We’re the three best friends that anybody could have” – Alan, the Hangover
1. Invite list
Talk to your stag/hen and establish who they want invited to their shin-dig. This is after-all a party for them, and they might have a few work friends or relatives that they want to share this memory with. You’re not expected to know everything, so it’s OK to consult them, this way you also avoid accidentally inviting somebody they actually hate.
2. Choose dates
This might seem really obvious, but decide a definitive date FAR IN ADVANCE. Most stag breaks and hen breaks are done in the months leading up to the wedding, and you’ll be surprised how quickly those weekends get filled with last minute fittings and meetings with cake makers, band members, venue owners etc. It’s probably best to start this planning 12 months before the wedding if you have the time.
“I’m ready to PAAAAARTY” – Annie, Bridesmaid
3. Organise something to remember!
Choosing the destination and theme can be the hardest part. You have to decide on that all important relaxation vs party weekend, and once that’s narrowed done, choose where to go. When picking a destination it’s best to take into consideration cost, accommodation options, activities and accessibility. Thankfully we offer a variety of packages that cover sports, spa, party and multi-activity breaks that are perfect for stags and hens.
“Help me I’m poor” – Annie, Bridesmaids
4. Establish a budget FAR IN ADVANCE
Make it easy on yourself and those invited and establish a budget and stick to it! Tell people far enough in advance so that everyone has an equal opportunity to save the money needed to go. Best to work out a price then add £25, this gives some wiggle room for some last minute things you probably didn’t think about at the start – and if it works out cheaper, then everyone is happy!!
5. Book EVERYTHING to avoid disappointment
Make sure you book activities/dinners/nightclubs (if possible) far in advance. Definitely get your accommodation booked at least 3 months before departure! For the widest choice of accommodation options we would recommend beginning the hunt at least 6 months in advance, especially if you have a large group, as availability will disappear quickly! Thankfully, if you book through activitybreaks.com we take care of everything from the moment you get in-country! Whether it be your airport transfers, accommodation, board basis, day time or night time activities – we can cover you!
6. In date passports
This one is simple. If you’re going abroad, make sure everyone has an in-date passport. This ties in with giving people lots of notice, this makes sure they also have time to get a new passport if necessary.
7. Communication – it is key!
You will find yourself in weekly contact with people you’ve never even talked to before. When you get an update or something develops, pass it on to the group. This way no one gets left behind and everyone is clued in. It’s also important that you can get in contact easily with those who are accommodating your party, and thankfully our customer service is on hand to answer any questions you may have!
“Things got out of control and, uh... we lost Doug” – Phil, The Hangover
8. Keep CALM
Don’t get stressed, let us plan it for you.
If you’re ready to start tackling number 3, then we can help! If your Groom is a sports mad fan we can tailor our F1 or rugby packages to make them worthy of his stags! Or maybe your bride is in need of a pamper weekend to escape the stresses of wedding planning. Or maybe they fancy an adventure weekend of jeep safaris, canoeing, clay pigeon shooting or indoor karting? Whatever their tastes, we have something to suit your wolfpack!