hens and stags

Calling all chief bridesmaids and best men! Have you organised a spectacular hen/stag do yet? If not, then allow us to help you come up with something unforgettable... guaranteed!

Rid yourself of any preconceptions you may have about hens and stags parties because they can be so much more than devil horns, 'L' plates, drunken bashes and naked lamp post tying! If you know the couple will shudder at the thought of wearing printed t-shirts advertising one of their 'last nights of freedom' then why not opt for a theme instead? Leave the options open by keeping it vague, for example 'the 80s', ‘disco’ or 'glam'. That gives people the freedom to take it as far as they are comfortable with and to decide how much they want to spend.

Stens And Hags?

For obvious reasons don't hold it the day before the wedding - it's just asking for trouble. When deciding on locations and timings, take into account what the respective hen or stag's opposite number is doing – the last thing you want to do is bump into each other! That said, if the couple have lots of mutual friends, it might be fun to have a joint party. Or maybe you can do your own thing and meet up later on in the evening, perhaps for a nightcap.

Theatre

There are some fantastic musicals and plays showing for very reasonable prices, so check out what's on around the time of the party. If it's going to be a boozy affair, this is a great way to limit the drinking for a while. See what's on at the King's Theatre in Glasgow: www.theambassadors.com

Murder Mystery

Why not do something completely different and attend a murder mystery evening? It's brilliant fun and a great way for other friends/guests to get to know each other in a short space of time. It also provides a focus to the proceedings, rather than everyone just trying to make the poor soul down shots. See www.bluemurderevents.co.uk

Private Party

It's best to have your own private drinking or dining area in a restaurant or pub if you're planning to get a bit raucous. You can be as loud and silly as you want, without getting the evil eye from other customers! For a private party check out: www.g1group.co.uk

Outdoors

There are plenty of great sports or activities you can do that will get the old adrenaline pumping. Apparently rage buggies and sphering are popular and not half as painful as they sound! See www.fastraxoff-road.co.uk

Abroad

Thanks to cheap flights and affordable holidays, going abroad is a viable way of celebrating, but the cost may be prohibitive for some. You may want to exert yourself on an activity holiday or prefer some relaxation by the beach or maybe a pampering break at a spa – the choice is yours... For tailormade packages see: www.weddings-honeymoons.com

Racing

Going racing is an exhilarating way to spend time with your party and lots of fun. Don’t think this is just for the men, both sexes can enjoy racing – watch as your competitive side inevitably comes out. There is nothing quite like going full throttle to get your heart pumping! See www.knockhill.com

Gambling

You can easily organise a casino night in your own home, and either hire or buy all the equipment you need. Before you do that though, ask around because between your group of friends you may be able to source a roulette wheel, a poker mat and even some chips, to save money. Set up blackjack, Texas hold’em and roulette, or why not try card games like poker.