Planning a hen do can be exciting, and a little overwhelming. Between juggling guests, budgets, and ideas, it’s easy to get lost in the details. But with a clear plan, a touch of creativity, and a few thoughtful touches, you can create an unforgettable celebration that the bride will love.
Whether you’re organising a day at the spa, or a weekend away, here’s a simple guide to help you plan the perfect hen do from start to finish.
1. Set the date early
The earlier you start, the better. Hen parties usually take place about one to three months before the wedding - enough time for everyone to relax without it clashing with the final preparations.
Create a poll to find out when the majority of guests are free. Once you have a date, lock it in early to secure venues, accommodation, and experiences before they get booked up.
2. Create a guest list and group chat
Start with the bride’s nearest and dearest, bridesmaids, close friends, and family members she can’t imagine celebrating without. Once the guest list is confirmed, set up a group chat (WhatsApp works best) to keep everyone in the loop.
This is where you can share updates, collect ideas, and make planning feel collaborative. Just make sure to keep surprises private if you’re planning any special moments!
3. Decide on your budget
A great hen do doesn’t have to break the bank; it’s about planning something that feels thoughtful and memorable.
Discuss the expected spend early so no one feels caught off guard. Remember to include:
- Accommodation or venue hire
- Food and drinks
- Activities and experiences
- Travel or transport
- Decorations and small gifts
If you’re organising multiple activities, mix one “main event” with smaller, low-cost touches. A creative perfume-making hen party, for example, can serve as the perfect centrepiece - a luxury experience that feels special but still accessible for all guests.
4. Choose your activities wisely
The key to a successful hen do is balance. Think of a mix that suits everyone — some fun, something relaxing, and something that feels personal to the bride.
Here are a few ideas that always go down well:
- A perfume-making workshop where everyone designs their own scent.
- A spa afternoon or beauty treatments.
- A private dinner or wine tasting.
- A themed night in with cocktails and games.
If your group includes a mix of ages, the bridal perfume experience is a brilliant choice. It’s inclusive, elegant, and gives everyone a chance to bond over something creative and memorable.
5. Confirm logistics and extras
Once you’ve chosen your activities, confirm the practical details:
- Venue bookings
- Travel arrangements
- Dietary needs
- Timings and payment deadlines
Add personal touches like goodie bags, printed itineraries, or custom playlists to make the celebration feel extra special.
If you’re booking a perfume-making hen party, we’ll handle most of the logistics for you — from providing all materials to guiding the group through the workshop. We can even help source a venue anywhere in the UK, so you can focus on the fun.
6. Capture the memories
Assign someone the role of photographer (or hire one for part of the day). Photos of everyone laughing during the perfume workshop or raising a glass at dinner will mean so much to the bride later.
Consider printing a few favourites and framing them as a post-hen gift - or create a digital album everyone can add to.
7. Enjoy the moment
After all the planning, remember to relax and enjoy it. The best hen parties are the ones that feel natural - full of laughter, connection, and joy. So pop the prosecco, turn up the music, and celebrate everything that makes the bride who she is.
For a hen do that’s creative, elegant, and unforgettable, explore our Perfume Making Hen Party experiences, available nationwide. Every guest leaves with their own bespoke fragrance - and a memory bottled forever.
Learn more at The Perfume Studio
