So you’ve been tasked with throwing a killer bachelorette party for your best friend/sister/future sister in law/etc. Congratulations! This may be something you have dreamed of all your life, or it could be something you are dreading. Either way, United with Love is here to help! We’ve got 6 bachelorette planning pointers (plus a few extras…) for whipping up the best bachelorette party ever! If you’re still unsure after checking out the below tips, don’t miss our bachelorette party ideas post and our classy white and gold bachelorette inspiration!

Deb Lindsey Photography via Classy Bachelorette Party Inspiration

It’s all about the bride. We know that you may get swept up in party planning, but don’t forget about the most important thing – the bride! There are so many different options to choose from when planning a bachelorette party or getaway weekend. Just think about the endless possibilities! From a weekend getaway to Vegas, jet setting to an island locale, a wine tasting afternoon or a weekend bar crawl, you can find something for everyone. But don’t let the possibilities distract you. The party isn’t all about what you want! What would the bride-to-be enjoy the most?

Timing is everything. I’m not quite sure why, but for some reason there was a time when bachelor and bachelorette parties traditionally happened the night before the wedding. First of all, when did anyone have time to do this?! Between the rehearsal, rehearsal dinner, welcome cocktail party, etc. your wedding weekend is busy enough without adding a bachelorette party into the mix! Plus, as we all know, these things tend to involve heavy drinking or late night slumber parties. The bride probably isn’t interested in being hungover for her wedding or having super sleepy ladies by her side during her ceremony! Opt for a weekend sometime before the wedding – maybe the weekend before or, if possible, on a nearby holiday weekend is you plan on going away for the festivities. This may make it so girls who have to travel are more likely to attend. In that same vein…

via It Girl Weddings

Let the bride make the guest list. You, as the maid of honor, sister, best friend, etc. may think you know just who the bride wants there, but it might not be so obvious. The bachelorette party may be a time in which the bride wants to let her hair down a bit and have some fun before her big day. She may not want her future mother in law, her boss, her coworkers, etc. there! Just double check with her before sending out any invites.

Check your budget. Some girls may be able to spend a ton for their besties bachelorette, but others may not. Try to be as inclusive as possible before you make any grandiose plans for the day or weekend. Keep in mind that some of the ladies may have the additional expense of travel so try to be conscious of that if you’re keeping it local for the bride.

Yasmin Sarai via Tropical Bridal Shower

Don’t forget the decorations! Whether you’re planning a low-key party at the bride’s house, a classy dinner party, or going all out and staying in a hotel suite, make sure to dress up the atmosphere a little. A few tasseled streamers, oversized balloons, and crowns can go a long way. And you’ll make the bride feel special! After all, isn’t that what this party is all about?! Don’t worry, you don’t have to go x rated with the décor if that’s not the bride’s style. Not every bachelorette party has to be filled with phallic symbols. Once again, keep the bride in mind!

Ask for help. Planning a kick ass bachelorette party or bachelorette weekend can be stressful and can take a lot of time. We know you’re busy with your own life so feel free to not go it alone! However, we don’t suggest you ask the bride for help. Ask another girl in the group to help you out with the planning process or delegate some specific tasks to others.

Alexandria Monette Photography via Coachella Inspired Bachelorette

Check out a few other one off tips and ideas below!

• Pick a theme or wear specific outfits for specific nights if the party is extended.
• Distribute a detailed itinerary to the guests, especially if you’ve planned a weekend getaway.
• Build in some wiggle room time wise and activity wise. Not everything will go exactly as planned and that’s okay!
• Hire a professional photographer for a few hours to capture some of the fun!
• Go with the flow. If plans change mid party, just go with it! If the bride’s having a good time, that’s all that matters.