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No stripper? Plan the perfect bachelorette party

Brides.com gives the scoop on the basics, budgeting and the latest trends

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By Cari Wolfert
updated 4:46 p.m. ET Aug. 4, 2009

Pamela Yager, founder and CEO of Bride's Night Out, a bachelorette planning party service located in Los Angeles, California, sets the record straight on party basics and budget, plus shares her tips on how to throw a hip and memorable girls-only night that everyone will enjoy.

What are some popular new alternatives to the stereotypical male stripper bachelorette party?
Women are typically not interested in having the same type of party that men do. We are more about fun group interaction and less about voyeurism. For that reason, popularity has increased for spa, wine tasting, sporting, destination and on-the-town parties.

How do you determine a bachelorette party budget, and who pays?
When setting a budget, you need to keep in mind the guest list and their financial resources. Bachelorette parties range in price depending on the style of event you're planning, what entertainment you choose, location, number of guests and duration. The average party guest will spend $150 and up on food, drinks, club covers, transportation and gifts. When it comes to paying, usually all the guests chip in for the bachelorette party and the host picks up a special item.

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What are some great ideas for non-cheesy bachelorette party games?
We find that the most popular bachelorette party games are personalized ones encouraging interaction among the women plus with people they meet along the way. These can include a mystery grab bag, scavenger hunts and other "get to know" games such as adopting a party name and persona.

Who should be invited to the bachelorette party?
Party guests include the bridal party attendants and very close friends, usually all females and around the same age as the bride. You should not invite people who aren't invited to the wedding. Also, depending on the type of event you're planning and your relationships, you may not want to include people who are underage, parents or bosses.

When should a bachelorette party be held?
The best time to have a bachelorette party is about 3-4 weeks before the wedding, allowing time for other wedding details to be completed and to recover from puffiness, etc. before the big day.

What is the number one question brides ask you when you are planning their bachelorette party and what is your answer?
Brides are always asking me what they should actually do for their bachelorette party. I tell them to plan their party based on the style, personality and budget of the group and bride-to-be. The most important tip in getting started is learning more about the bride-to-be and guests. Then you can put together an event that compliments the group and one that the bride-to-be will remember forever.


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