Hen Party Planning: Matching Outfits, Etiquette & Wording
The hen party is the warm-up act to the wedding: a weekend (or just a really good evening) of the bride's favourite people, a little bit of chaos and a lot of photos. Whether you are the maid of honour pulling it together or the bride-to-be keeping a close eye on it, a few simple decisions up front keep the whole thing relaxed. Here is our guide to hen party etiquette, timing and budget, plus ideas for matching outfits and keepsakes that look lovely in the group photo.
Who Plans the Hen Party?
Traditionally the maid of honour or chief bridesmaid takes the lead, often with the other bridesmaids, but friends and family can all pitch in. The bride should have the final say on the broad shape of the day: a spa afternoon, a cocktail class, a countryside cottage weekend or a night out are all very different budgets and energy levels. Start with a quiet conversation about what she would actually enjoy before anyone books anything.
Timing and Budget
Try to settle the date two to three months ahead, or earlier if you are travelling, and avoid the weeks immediately before the wedding so nobody is frazzled on the day. Be upfront about costs from the very first message. Guests are also paying for outfits, travel and the wedding itself, so offering a lower-cost version of the plan, or making some activities optional, is a kindness that tends to be appreciated. It is common for the group to share the bride's costs between them, but agree this early and say it clearly in the invitation.
Matching Outfits Without the Fuss
A coordinated look makes your group instantly recognisable and gives everyone something to wear again afterwards. The trick is to choose pieces people will genuinely reach for:
- Hoodies and sweatshirts: perfect for cooler months, spa days and long train journeys home.
- Caps and beanies: an easy, comfortable way to match, with the bride's version in a different colour or wording.
- Personalised phone cases: a keepsake each guest will see every day, with initials, a date or a playful slogan.
- Simple colour themes: if you would rather not match exactly, ask everyone to wear white, a shared pastel or a favourite colour of the bride's.
Check sizes and spellings early, and allow extra time for made-to-order pieces so they arrive well before the weekend.
What to Write on the Invitation
Keep it friendly, clear and practical: date, place, rough cost, a reply-by date and a contact for questions. A few wording ideas:
She said yes, so now we're saying cheers! Join us for Emma's hen weekend on 14 to 16 March. Cost approx. £120 each. Please reply by 1 February.
The bride-to-be needs her favourite people for one last night as a Miss. Details below, dress code: all white.
Pack your comfiest outfit and your best stories. Hen weekend for Sophie, with matching hoodies provided.
Etiquette Tips
- Invite only people the bride would want there, and let her check the list so nobody important is missed.
- Share the full cost and what is included before anyone commits.
- Keep the plan inclusive, with activities that suit different budgets, fitness levels and comfort zones.
- Collect payments in good time and keep a simple shared record so costs stay transparent.
- Never force embarrassing games on the bride or guests. The best hen parties leave everyone smiling.
Make It a Keepsake
Whether you are matching with ten friends or treating the bride to something special, a personalised piece turns a fun weekend into a memory worth keeping. Browse our personalised wedding party gifts, from phone cases to hats and beanies, all made to order for your group.
Sources: Debrett's, The Etiquette of Hen Parties; A4 Apparel, Custom T-Shirts for Stag and Hen Parties; Yorkshire Post, How to Plan a Hen Party on a Budget.