The Last Hurrah

Planning the Perfect Bachelorette Party on a Budget

Planning a bachelorette party can feel like a big responsibility. After all, it is —symbolically, at least — the bride-to-be’s last night of freedom. You want to make sure it is memorable in all the right ways without breaking the bank. Whether you opt for a classic night of bar-hopping and dance floors, or a more chill evening with a movie marathon, keep these considerations from Linsey Huffaker Photography in mind for big fun without the big cost.

Timing is Everything

Once the date has been set, the schedule for the wedding itself is inflexible — but that doesn't mean the bachelorette party is limited to the preceding week or month. In fact, with all the last-minute details that inevitably crop up, your bride may appreciate not having the bachelorette party stealing her attention in those final days.

If you're considering a destination bachelorette party in a big-name location, opt to travel in the off-season to save on everything from flights to hotels. The same goes for all-inclusive cruises or resorts, which, depending on your guests, could be a more budget-friendly way to go. These options also have the added convenience of knowing all your costs upfront, and eliminate the worry of splitting checks. 

Whatever your plans, book as far in advance as possible to ensure you have the best options at the best prices. This requires a finalized headcount in addition to a set date, so start the conversation with the bride early in order to know who she wants to attend and whether she has any preferences for the festivities.

Consider the Road Less Traveled

While certain cities — think Vegas, New Orleans, Los Angeles, and others — are iconic bachelorette destinations, budget-conscious bridesmaids will want to consider some places off the beaten path. Depending on your bride and her tastes, check out places like the mountainous city of Asheville, North Carolina, or the laid-back beach vibes of Santa Barbara, just a couple of hours north of Los Angeles. Lake Tahoe is another destination rising in popularity, and, with its wealth of outdoor activities and charming lakeside towns, it isn't hard to see why.

An added bonus of opting for one of these smaller destinations? The mountains and the beach are both free, and the natural beauty is unparalleled. You can also choose a location that is walkable so that you can avoid the traffic and cost involved in renting a car or calling an Uber. There are plenty of great places near natural beauty that have little shops and restaurants you can walk to throughout your stay. Rather than the typical girls' night out, you may find yourself opting for a day in the sun and retiring to a cozy cabin for a fun sleepover.

Streaming Sessions

No matter which direction you go—urban or rural, girls' night out or a day on the beach — keep the entertainment coming all weekend long by bringing along your own streaming device. While it’s small enough to use anywhere, these powerful players offer access to thousands of movies, music and TV shows. Kick off the evening with appetizers and an appropriately festive movie. You could play a favorite TV show as everyone nods off in the wee hours of the morning. 

Either way, you'll avoid having to pay for any of the hotel's channels. If your schedule will be too jam-packed for any lengthy viewing options, a streaming device can still provide all the music you need to pump up the party as everyone gets ready to hit the town.

Enjoy the Perfect Budget-Friendly Bachelorette Party

Whatever the event ends up being, don't let the money-saving planning and logistics distract you from the meaning of the day: a celebration of the bride-to-be and your friendship. You're here for her, and, clearly, she values your role in her life. Let the bachelorette party signify not just the end of one chapter in your friendship, but the beginning of a new one, in which you get to see her continue to grow as a friend, partner, wife, and all-around fantastic human being.

Do you want professional pictures of your bachelorette party? Then contact Linsey Huffaker Photography for a consultation.

Written by Chris Haymon of Adulting Digest