Hen parties have unwritten rules that prevent awkwardness. Here are the main ones.
For the host (chief bridesmaid)
- Confirm the guest list with the bride before inviting anyone
- Give a realistic budget range in the invitation — let people opt out before they feel committed
- Follow up RSVPs and collect money early — chasing late payers is miserable
For guests
- RSVP promptly — the host needs numbers to book venues and activities
- Pay your share without needing to be chased
- The hen party is not the place to raise tensions between the bride's friend groups
- Social media: check with the host what the bride wants posted publicly
On costs
It is acceptable to decline if the cost is genuinely beyond your means — do this early, not after the booking is made. A good chief bridesmaid will have set a budget accessible to the whole group. If someone declines, do not pressurise them.
Plan the perfect hen with our free hen party planning checklist.