Whether you're a seasoned party planner or just dipping your toes into the world of bridal celebrations, understanding what a hen party entails is key to creating an unforgettable experience for the bride-to-be. At Team Hen, we're here to guide you through the ins and outs of this cherished tradition, from its origins to modern-day interpretations.

What is a Hen Party?

A hen party, also known as a bachelorette party in the United States, is a pre-wedding celebration thrown in honour of the bride-to-be. It's a chance for the bride to spend quality time with her closest friends and family before tying the knot, typically filled with laughter, fun activities, and bonding moments.

Origins of the Term Hen Party

All-female gatherings prior to the wedding date back to ancient Greece, but the term "hen party" emerged much later. Hens, renowned for their social tendencies, often gather in groups, resembling women's social gatherings. This natural behaviour likely influenced the term's adoption to describe female get-togethers, emphasising their social aspect.

In the 1800s, the Utah-based publication, The Deseret News, made the first recorded reference to a 'hen party' in relation to female gatherings. This term has evolved over time into a slang description  for celebrations and events centred around women.

The modern-day wedding association of the term gained recognition when the Times newspaper, in 1976, included it in an article discussing a male stripper fined for inappropriate conduct by Leicester Crown Court, characterised as 'lewd, obscene, and disgusting.'

Synonyms for Hen Party

While "hen party" is the most common term used in the UK, similar celebrations go by different names around the world. 

In the United States, it's often referred to as a 'bachelorette party,' while in Australia and New Zealand, it's known as a hens' night.

The French often call it an EVJF, which stands for ‘Enterrement de Vie de Jeune Fille,’ which translates to ‘Burial of the Life of a Young Girl’ in English.  The term burial in this context symbolises the end of the bride-to-be's single life and the transition into married life. 

While ‘hen party’ focuses more on the celebratory aspect of the event, the French term emphasises the idea of bidding farewell to the bride's single life.

Other synonyms include hen night, hen do and bridal shower.

Why Choose a Hen Party?

Hen parties serve as a meaningful way to honour the bride-to-be and celebrate her upcoming marriage. They provide an opportunity for friends and family members to come together, share stories, and create lasting memories. From spa days and cocktail evenings to adventurous getaways and themed parties, the possibilities for hen party activities are endless, allowing you to tailor the celebration to the bride's preferences and personality.

Planning Your Perfect Hen Party

When planning a hen party, it's essential to consider the bride. Whether she's a fan of laid-back gatherings or prefers an all-out affair, the key is to create an experience that reflects her unique style and celebrates the love and friendship shared between you and her bride squad.

At Team Hen, we offer a wide range of modern hen party accessories and decorations to help you bring your vision to life. From chic sashes and stylish balloons to fun games and party favours, we've got everything you need to make the bride-to-be's celebration truly unforgettable.