Guest Blog: DIY Darlin
Aimee from http://diydarlin.com wrote this great piece on how to keep budget in mind when planning a bachelorette party! We’re so excited to share it with you!
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Tips for Throwing a Perfect Bachelorette Party on a Budget
Bachelorette parties are known to cost a pretty penny, especially when they involve travel and accommodation expenses. While a destination party is bound to be unforgettable, don’t rule out other options, and if a getaway is a must, there are ways to stretch your pennies. When you’re ready to start planning the bride’s big celebration, the following tips can help ease finances so you can savor the celebration.
Set a Budget Together
According to The Knot, the average cost of a 3-day bachelorette party is $1,400 per guest. While you don’t have to spend this much on your destination event, the costs of airfare, hotel accommodation, food, drinks, and show tickets can add up quickly if you’re not careful. When budgeting for your event, it’s important to find out what everyone is comfortable spending. Remember that some guests may not be willing or able to spend as much as others! With that in mind, ensure each guest knows what to expect before they RSVP to the party. You can even create a shared spreadsheet for the sake of transparency.
Plan a Night In
A night in with the girls is a great option for budget-conscious bridal parties. If you have your heart set on a destination event, consider a nearby weekend, relaxing at a private lakeside cabin or beach house. You can also book a hotel room and plan indoor activities for the night. Bring DIY decorations, stock up on snacks, plan fun games, and order takeout. You could even throw a murder mystery dinner party at a vacation home—look for a rental with a kitchen and a large dining table, then guess whodunnit!
Consider bringing a streaming device to your destination party to save money on evening entertainment and avoid extra hotel fees. A well-chosen streaming stick will allow you to access thousands of programs, plus you can also stream music to help keep the party going all night!
Stay Close to Home
Flying across the country can be expensive, so a smart solution for a getaway to remember is to book accommodations within driving distance. Ask everyone in your group how far they’re willing to go before picking a destination. Remember that you can always make the road trip part of your event by taking scenic routes and planning fun stops. Another thought, if the bridal party is up for it, spend the weekend camping! Or for groups looking for a little more luxury, a simple spa weekend at a hotel down the street may be an attractive option.
Keep it Short and Sweet
A whole weekend of bachelorette adventures can feel drawn-out and exhausting. As ABC News explains, multi-day events get expensive quickly, draining energy and budgets. They also require guests to arrange time off from work. You can save a lot of money and scheduling conflicts by packing all of your fun into one amazing night. Whether you decide to hit the town or stay in, a one-night bachelorette event will be easier for everyone. You can always stretch your night a little further by turning it into a sleepover and ending your party with an indulgent brunch the next morning.
Take Advantage of Free Activities
If you and the girls want to head out, look for free activities that fit the interests of your group. For example, a hike or picnic on the beach may be perfect for the nature-loving bride. Exploring a new city? Go on a free walking tour, check out local markets, and visit free museums. If the bride is a foodie, rent bikes and tour the city in search of the area’s top restaurants and bars. You can even plan your trip around a carnival or festival in your destination location. Just keep in mind that accommodation prices may increase during large events.
Remember, the bachelorette party is about the bride and her friends. Hosting this celebration means accommodating the interests of everyone. Invite all of the guests to voice their opinions and ideas, and thanks to your diligence, it’ll be a happy memory-making event, not a stressful budget-busting one.