This or That Hen Party: A Party Planning Guide (Classy or Traditional)

Helping your customers plan the perfect pre-wedding celebration - whichever vibe they choose. 

Hen parties have come a long way. From feather boas and L-plates to elegant wine tastings and spa retreats, the modern hen celebration isn't one-size-fits-all. Today's brides (and their best friends) are choosing hen parties that reflect their personalities - whether they lean fun and flashy or calm and classy. 

As a gift, stationery or lifestyle retailer, understanding these different styles not only helps you curate better products, it also helps you connect with customers looking to plan something meaningful (or mischievious). So whether it's team champagne & chill or shots & sashes, here's to your go-to guide for supporting every kind of hen party with the right cards, gifts and accessories. 

The "Classy" Hen Party

Think prosecco over pints and spa robes over stilettos. The classy hen party trend is all about style, elegance and connection. 

Common themes:

• Spa weekends or countryside retreats
• Afternoon tea or bottomless brunches
• DIY flower crown workshops
• Wine and cheese nights
• Sunset dinners or beach picnics

Your product checklist: 

• Chic, minimalist hen party invitations
• Elegant cards: "Bride to Be", "To My Bridemaids", "Maid of Honour"
• Matching stationery sets (guest books, vow cards, table place cards)
• Classy sashes and headbands in neutral tones or soft metallics
• Keepsake gifts like candles, jewellery trays or "letters to the bride" journals
• Gift wrap in golds, blush or botanical designs

In-store or online display idea:
Create a "Modern Bride" feature table - earthy tones, soft florals, glassware and handwritten style fonts. Think Pinterest worthy aesthetics with products to match.

The "Traditional" Hen Party

Bold, cheeky and unapologetically fun, the traditional hen party still reigns supreme for many friendship groups. It's about letting loose, celebrating loudly and creating unforgettable stories.

Common themes:

• City nights out with dinner and dancing
• Fancy dress pub crawls
• Karaoke and cocktail-making classes
• House parties with games and gifts
• Group trips to European party hotspots

Your product checklist: 

• Bright, playful hen party cards and novelty gifts
• Bold sashes, badges, veils and props
• Games: "Who Knows the Bride Best?", dares and bingo
• Hangover kits or recovery gift bags
• Matching T-shirts or tote bags with fun slogans
• Gift wrap in hot pinks, metallics, glitter and bol type 

In-store or online display idea:
Feature a "Party Essentials" stand with mix and match accessories, loud signage and ready made packs for bridesmaids in a hurry.

Stocking Both? Smart Move.

Many brides are combining elements of both worlds - an afternoon tea followed by a cheeky night out or a weekend getaway with a single evening of mayhem. That's why offering a bit of both styles will keep your range relevant and shoppable for all personalities.

Retail tip:
Group your products by vibe: "Classy Celebration" and "Big Night Out" bundles. Or help shoppers build their own vibe by mixing complementary items. 

Final Thought: Make the Planning Effortless

Planning a hen do can be stressful - especially when different tastes, budgets and ideas are involved. Your store can make it easier with ready to shop ranges, clear categories and helpful suggestions for cards, gifts, games and accessories. 

So whether they're planning champagne in a countryside cottage or cocktails on the dancefloor, be the retailer that has everything covered. 

Explore our hen party collection