There are few things in life that’s better than a bottomless brunch surrounded by your favourite gal pals, so what better way to celebrate your upcoming nuptials than with a boozy bridal shower brunch in the nation’s capital. We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite hotspots around London with unlimited food and drink options for you to sink your teeth into.

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Here is our ultimate guide on how to nail a pool party themed bachelorette. Follow this and your day will go swimmingly (we can’t resist a pun)!

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Here in the UK it can sometimes feel like winter all year round.

So with that in mind, we have compiled our favourite ‘wintery’ activities/ideas to inspire you when planning a seasonal Hen Do.

The Knitty Gritty

Nothing says cosiness like being tucked up in a warm blanket. So why not make your own?

Crafty Hen parties are becoming more and more popular. They are a chic alternative to your typical, crazy Hen Do and you can learn a new skill whilst having a giggle with your bride squad!

Whether you begin to knit a chunky blanket or learn the basics of quilting, a master class with an expert will make you ooze with confidence before the big day.

Blooming Brilliant

A similarly crafty idea would be to organise a wreath-making workshop. Wreaths’ aren’t just for Christmas trust me! Tones of florists offer Hen Do packages, some even work mobile so can bring the class to your home if need be.

You could even incorporate the flowers you plan on having at your wedding into your wreath, so you can picture how fabulous they will look.

A Hint of Holiday Spirit

Wintertime is renowned as party season; therefore it is also a time for delicious cocktails. Turn your kitchen into a flavour haven, do some recipe research and get each party member to bring a bottle (mixer or alcohol).

From there it is time to get concocting, create classic cocktails such as a Snowballs, Mulled Wine and Eggnog. But don’t be afraid to try new recipes, check out Pinterest for some funky new snifters such as Jingle Juice or even create your own!

Hansel and Gretel Vibes

Get those creative juices flowing with a DIY gingerbread house decorating party! Bake and assemble your miniature houses prior to the event or instead buy pre-made houses for less trouble. You will need icing, piping bags and lots of yummy sweet decorations. Put a old table cloth down or sheets of baking paper; proceedings are bound to get very sticky.

You could even create a little bridal party competitiveness by awarding a best decor prize!

Loco for Hot Cocoa

Creating a ‘hot chocolate bar’ is an idea we are completely obsessed with at Team Hen. Hot chocolate can be completely versatile for each guests’ preferences and is perfect for a non-alcoholic Hen Do; whether that be because the bride is pregnant or she actually just wants to remember the event!

Of course you can always add alcoholic options to your bar such as baileys or orange liquor. Just be sure to clearly label each mixer, topping and other extras extras.

Get everyone to come in his or her Pyjamas for added charm!

For more Hen Party Activity Ideas, checkout our free online directory >>

It’s undeniable that fancy dress costumes always create a good giggle and can be a lot of fun to plan!

Yes, sometimes they can look tacky and cheap but here at Team Hen our motto is ‘Tasteful Not Tat’ so we have created an ultimate list of dress up Hen party ideas!  

Beyoncé

An obvious choice now that he’s ‘put a ring on it’. Queen Bey has had dozens of iconic looks in her music videos; from camouflage in ‘survivor’ to the classic black bodysuit in ‘single ladies’. You could even use a play on words. Dressing as an actual bumble bee to symbolise the ‘Bey Hive’ or perhaps wear a lemon outfit to play homage to her bestselling album Lemonade.  

Decade You Were Born In

A brilliant idea if your bride squad are various ages! It will break the ice between different generations and the outfit options will be vast so hopefully no one will match. Whether you dress up as a blockbuster film character, use a trend such as flower power to inspire you, or base your outfit on a historic event (we’re talking along the lines of Posh and Becks’ wedding, not the moon landing!).  

Honeymoon

Don’t be put off by this idea, it can work whether you are married, engaged or single. Each costume simply needs to sum up your dream Honeymoon destination, the crazier and more unusual your bridesmaids are the better. Hopefully they are planning skiing, hiking and snorkelling honeymoons. Or alternatively want to go to countries with unique culture such as Hawaii (hula skirt at the ready)!  

Glitter

Another festive favourite of ours. Everything is better covered in glitter right? Time to whip out your sequin dress, paint your nails metallic and highlight those cheekbones like never before! If you’re stuck for inspiration go and follow @gypsyshrine or @gogetglitter on IG.

Bootcamp

The perfect theme for a fitness fanatic Bride. Simply dress in your workout gear or anything camo print. Play on ‘keep fit’ stereotypes; we’re talking neon sweat bands, army face paint and of course lots of water bottles (perhaps filled with something a little stronger for this occasion).

Whimsical

This fancy dress genre is very broad, but in essence we mean anything mystical and magical! From unicorns, fairies, mermaids and pixies if you’re a girly girl this fancy dress will be a breeze.

Miss to Mr

Turn the tables and suit up. Take inspiration from your other half by dressing up as him for the party! This is particularly fun if they have a distinctive work uniform or perhaps a long moustache. Even if some of your bridal party are single, get them to dress up as their dream partner. A grey wig and bit of bronzer, you’ll look like Philip Scofield in an instant.  

Christmas Jumpers

Not technically fancy dress but a really effortless idea, especially if you are having a winter wedding! Most people might already have a festive jumper they can dig out from their wardrobe or if not, you can get them for around £10 in Primark… bargain! For more hen party activity ideas, search our Activities directory    

Image Credits:

• IMDB
• jeffzoet.zenfolio.com
• Flavorwire
• WeHeartIt.com
• Lovelydyedlocks.tumblr.com
• Glamour Magazine

The Hot List

With the launch of our new hen party activities directory, we thought we'd share with you the most unique hen party ideas, available in the U.K right now!

From North to South, East & West, we roundup the most creative activities from handpicked suppliers across Great Britain.

Farm Adventure

Are you a country girl at heart? Farm Adventure, based in North Yorkshire, is the perfect rural Hen Do venue. Experience the life of a real farmer with a unique set of activities. They offer various packages, our favourite would have to be ‘pig herding’; it looks so much fun and is sure to create hilarious memories. Other activities involve tractor driving, egg throwing and welly wanging! This definitely suits brides that love getting stuck in (literally in mud) and be warned it may get competitive with fellow bridesmaids.  

Sushi Queen

Don’t get us wrong we LOVE a cake decorating workshop, however it turns out there is a new foodie Hen Party idea in town. Sushi making! The aptly named Sushi Queen offers a mobile service, showcasing her expertise and allowing you to create yummy, memorable, mouth-watering sushi in your own home. Groups up to 20 people can attend. Learning a new skill, trying exciting flavours and having girly giggles all together.  

Country House Murder Mysteries

What better way to show your friends how much you love them than by killing them off! Not literally of course… Country House Murder Mysteries is an amazing mystery themed evening that allows everyone in your bridal party to be involved (even great aunt Nancy). Miss Mapletree is head sleuth, and she helps solve crimes at Murder Mystery events throughout the UK. Can you see past the deceit and secrets; everyone is a suspect!

My Charleston Dance

Obsessed with Strictly Come Dancing? Who isn’t. This is one for you retro, glamourous Hens. Take a trip back to the 1920s with My Charleston Dance; their experienced dance teachers will guide you through the steps, bringing a swivel to your feet and a smile to your face. They have 4 fabulous workshops’ available: Great Gatsby, Silver Screen, Chicago and traditional Charleston. The style is timeless and the music is infectious!  

Mermaiding

Mermaids are real! We’re genuinely obsessed with Mermaiding UK. Their Hen Party package allows you to channel your inner Ariel. You get a professional photoshoot with a swishy mermaid tail and can craft the clamshell bra of your dreams with rhinestones and glitter! It’s over the top and we just LOVE it!  

Arctic Quest

If you’re searching for something adventurous and unconventional to do perhaps a husky ride takes your fancy? Arctic Quest is perfect for dog lovers. Not only will you experience the thrill of a sled ride, but you’ll finish your day with toasted marshmallows and hot drinks over the campfire, reminiscing on the memories you have made. Amazing activity for 'Action Hens', based in Gloucestershire.   For more imaginative hen party activities in your area, visit our new Activities Directory

Beauty & The Beast Inspired Hen Party

It's a tale as old as time...

With the beautiful new remake hitting the big screen, we thought a Beauty & The Beast inspired Hen Party would be the perfect theme for any Disney fans out there.

This theme can be as subtle as a yellow and blue dress code, or a discreet rose inspired pin.

If you fancy incorporating a bit more Belle into your ball, we have some stylish suggestions...

Be Our Guest

If you are lucky enough to get a cancellation, The Kensington Hotel in central London are doing a Beauty & Beast themed afternoon tea.

The various sweets and savouries featured in this whimsical afternoon tea are inspired by the characters and scenes of the film. Highlights include Vanilla & Gold Jelly, presented in shot glasses with the ever-symbolic rose petal immersed inside, served with cream poured from Mrs. Potts spout.

Belle Nails

Nail Art seems to know no bounds, with the most intricate of details adorning the tiniest nails.

These striking yellow nails with the dainty rose are the perfect nod to Belle.

If yellow nails aren't your thing, an electric blue would work just as well.

If intricate nail art is a bit beyond your capabilities, use a nail tattoo transfer instead.

Decorations

A simple red rose in a gold chair tie will set the scene for your beauty inspired hen party.

You can also use silhouette style garlands, and confetti to add a real touch of Beauty.

Makeup

Primark have launched a range of make-up dedicated to all things Belle, and we are loving it!

Jewellery

If you're looking for a Beauty inspired gift for the Bride to Be, then look no further than this stunning gold plated Enchanted Rose necklace by Disney Couture.

You can also find a range of beautiful handmade jewellery on ETSY.

Beautiful Hairstyles

If the original half up/half down hair style with yellow ribbon is a bit too much, consider a more modern alternative like this bow up-do.

You may need your 'maids to practice this one if you're intent on rocking the Belle look for your big night out.

You'll need plenty of hair grips and hairspray!

 Enchanted Rose Cupcakes

These enchanted rose cupcakes are the most beautiful centrepiece for any Beauty and the Beast themed event.

There are a lot of ways you can incorporate this theme into your event; from stained glass decorated sugar cookies, to enchanted rose cake pops.

If your inner 'star baker' fails you, why not decorate a shop bought cupcake with edible rose petals.

Flair Game

If pins and patches are your thing, then you must get this stunning enchanted rose pin from Cool Queen Collective. It is the perfect accessory for any Belle obsessed Bride.

For more Beauty & The Beast Hen Party inspiration, check our our Pinterest Board

Beauty & The beast Themed Hen Party