The cost of a hen do has skyrocketed over the last 10 years and if you have a lot a friends getting married in the same year it can put a real strain on your family coffers.
However, a great hen party needn’t cost a fortune so don’t get carried away by expensive package deals. If you think DIY you could get far more for your money.
Hotels
If you fancy staying in a hotel there are some simple ways to reduce the bill. If you don’t mind sharing beds. Book a triple or family room. This will bring the cost per person right down. You can also save a lot by booking a room only rate, lets face it you probably won’t be awake in time for breakfast anyway!
The other big way to save is to be organised. Book rooms on flexible rates. This means you can cancel them without losing money which as anyone who has organised a hen do will tell you is the biggest nightmare.
Travel
Shop around for train tickets and be organised. Train tickets are released 3 months in advance and tend to be cheapest just after they are released so put a date in the diary and you could save a packet.
Self-Catering
If you are going away as a group this is a great way to do it. Not only do you save money of the cost of the accommodation. If you get somewhere with good social space you can stop in on the Friday night and play some fun games, do a homemade pamper night or hire the hens favourite DVD.
Or, ask all of the girls to arrive with a surprise dish for a ‘pot luck supper’.
Activities
Try booking your activities directly with the suppliers and you could save a lot on agency prices. Like anything, you can save if you are prepared to spend the time shopping around.
Meals
Try and find a venue with a set party menu. This means you can all have a look at the menu in advance and everyone knows the cost. This also means no awkward moments when it comes to splitting the bill.
Pubs & Clubs
It is a competitive market out there in bars these days and venues are very keen to have you and also to keep you. On the night it will be easier if you do not have to move between too many venues so ask if they can reserve you an area or booth. It makes it feel special and many venues are more than happy to oblige.
If you need any help, advice or hen party ideas then please do not hesitate to ask. We are more than happy to help.
Written by Matt Kirby of Comparestagandhen.com.
