Ideas & advice 28 October 2026

Five questions to ask the hen party group chat

By Oliver · Hosting parties since 2018

Agree the bride’s wishes, budget, group size, venue and decision maker before the hen party group chat gets out of hand.

The group chat is brilliant for getting everyone excited. It is less brilliant when twelve people are choosing different dates, costs and activities at once. These five questions give the organiser a useful starting point before asking anyone for a quote.

1. What would the bride actually enjoy?

Would she love a surprise performer, prefer an activity everyone does together, or want a little of both? Think about her personality rather than what a hen weekend is supposed to look like. If you are planning a surprise, agree any boundaries with the people who know her best.

2. What is everyone comfortable spending?

Agree a range and say whether it covers accommodation, food and travel or just activities. Look at the total group charge. Our cocktail classes have a ten-person minimum charge of £400 or £450, depending on the package. For a hen-party life-drawing class, the bride joins free within ten attendees, so nine pay at the minimum: £225 standard or £202.50 paid in full. Smaller groups can pay the same minimum.

3. Who is definitely coming?

Use an approximate number to explore options, then set a deadline for confirming. Tell us the true headcount even if your group will pay a minimum charge, so the host arrives with the right supplies and setup.

4. Where will it happen?

A booked house does not automatically allow outside hosts. Ask the property about the activity, access, space and any time limits. Send the venue or postcode with your enquiry.

5. Who makes the final call?

Let everyone have a say, then choose one organiser to confirm the quote and arrangements. One contact makes the date, deposit and surprise plan clearer.

Ready to get past the group chat? Compare the activities and send Oliver your date, place and shortlist. He can also offer a free 15-minute planning call.