When you think of a stag/hen do, generally you think of how they’re portrayed in the media- wild nights out with an abundance of alcohol and often strippers. But maybe that’s not your style? Maybe someone in your wedding party is too young or even too pregnant for alcohol fueled shenanigans!
I’ve only been to one hen do before, and at the time I was almost 20 weeks pregnant with TinyHuman! I am fortunate enough that my wonderful friends tailored the do for me so that I wouldn’t feel left out as I couldn’t drink. I had told them that they didn’t need to worry about drinking and that I wouldn’t feel left out, and that I wouldn’t mind sitting it out so they could do what they wanted too, but they were adamant they wanted me involved. So we compromised. We started off at home with some drinking games (they even bought me my favourite alcohol free cider so I could join in), then we headed out to play a few games of bowling! The girls were pretty drunk at this point but it was nice that I could join in with the game and giggles.
Why go alcohol free?
There are many reasons that someone may not want to have alcohol at their stag/hen do! For example, someone could be pregnant as I was. There may be a member of the party who is not yet old enough, my youngest sister is currently 17 years old and I would never dream of leaving her out because of this. There is also the chance that being around alcohol could be triggering for some.
For some, it’s just not their thing!
The Bride or Groom have every right to decide if they do or don’t want alcohol at their stag/hen do and even their wedding. This can be for any reason, it’s not our place to question it.
This doesn’t mean that there isn’t fun to be had!
There are so many awesome ways to have fun without alcohol even needing to enter the game. Here are few of my favourites:
Unleash your inner adrenaline junkie!
If you really want to do something that you’ll never forget, why not do something crazy! Stag/hen do’s sound like the perfect time to let loose and have some fun. Do something that will really get your adrenaline pumping! If you can stomach the heights then why not try a sky dive or a bungee jump? Or if you’re someone like me who enjoys keeping their feet firmly on the ground and not hurtling towards it stupidly fast… then why not check out one of those Total Wipeout style obstacle courses? They look fantastic!
There is also the option of doing things such as paintballing, laser tag or go karting! The action/adventure list is endless!
Stress relief!
Wedding planning is stressful! So why not have a stag/hen do that makes you feel relaxed? One where you’ll wake up the next morning feeling refreshed and well rather than hungover and trying not to throw up your breakfast.
This might mean you and your people find yourselves going for a nice calming spa trip, going on a relaxing getaway or just relaxing together! Depending on the type of person you are, taking a minute to slow down and just relax could be vital. When every other moment in your life is so full of stress, slowing down could be the exact thing you need to get you back on track!
The Fun Fair!
Why not head to the fun fair or a theme park? When was the last time you got to let your hair down, act like a big kid and just have fun?
It could be so much fun to gather your favourite people and spend the day/evening/night enjoying yourselves. Where your only concerns are whether or not that last bag of candyfloss was a good idea…
DIY Fun!
As you’re approaching your big day you may have decided to make some of your own decorations or favours, why not call in some help? Alternatively, DIY something completely unrelated to the wedding. Why not take a pottery class or a painting class? Let your inner creativity just flow, and do so with all of your friends.
Ultimately it’s your decision
However you decide you celebrate your stag/hen is entirely up to you. Whether you decide to get absolutely plastered or keep it alcohol free, so long as you enjoy yourself and it’s what you want. That is all that matters!
So do what is best for you, and most importantly… HAVE FUN!
