A hen party is a pre-wedding celebration for a bride, usually organised by close friends, bridesmaids or family. It is also called a hens night, hen do or bachelorette party. The format can be wild, relaxed, sentimental or practical depending on the bride.
The purpose is simple: give the bride time with her people before the wedding, celebrate the life stage she is entering, and create memories away from the pressure of planning.
Why is it called a hen party?
The word “hen” has long been used informally for a woman, just as “stag” is used for a man in stag party traditions. Modern hen parties are not about one fixed historical ritual. They have grown from women’s social gatherings, pre-wedding customs and modern party culture into the flexible celebrations people know today.
That flexibility matters. A hen party can be a dinner, spa day, games night, weekend away, craft session, dance class, winery trip, backyard lunch or themed night out.
Why do we celebrate hen parties?
- To honour the bride: it is a chance to focus on her before the wedding day becomes busy and shared.
- To bring friends together: hens events often connect people from different parts of the bride’s life.
- To create a memory: the wedding is formal; the hen party can be more personal and playful.
- To mark a transition: it celebrates the move into marriage without needing to be overly serious.
What happens at a hen party?
Common activities include games, speeches, themed outfits, dinner, drinks, photos, bride trivia, dares, pampering, craft sessions or a destination activity. The best plans start with the bride’s comfort level. Not every bride wants embarrassment, public attention or a big night out.
If you need activity inspiration, this related guide to things you can do at a hen party can help shape the event.
Hen party gift ideas
Guests do not always need to bring a gift, especially if they have paid for the event. But a small bride-focused present can be thoughtful. Browse Bachelorette Party (Hens), Bachelor / Bachelorette, gag gifts and novelty or drinkware for party-friendly ideas.
- For a funny bride: novelty props, games or cheeky accessories.
- For a sentimental bride: a memory book, photo-friendly keepsake or handwritten note.
- For a low-key bride: cosy, practical or home-friendly gifts she can use after the wedding rush.
- For the party table: games, drinkware or small favours that help guests join in.
How to plan a hen party that feels right
Ask the bride what she does not want first. That answer is often more useful than a list of ideas. Then choose a budget, guest list and activity that will let her relax rather than perform.
A hen party is not meant to prove how extravagant the wedding will be. It is a moment for friendship, humour and support before the next chapter begins.
