Bridal Era: Unique hen party inspiration for every bride

Jody Coffey

You can feel the beginning of hen season in the air

It seems that bridesmaids of 2024 are well and truly busy as searches for ‘hen party ideas’ have seen a 300% monthly increase, according to Pinterest.

Planning a hen party for the bride-to-be is an important role as maid of honour or bridesmaid, one that you want to ensure align’s with who they are as a person.

For the pre-wedding celebrations, several themes have emerged for 2024, mainly thanks to TikTok, that will cater to all brides this year.

As unique, fun, and feminine hen parties for their brides pop up across the app, Amy Greenshields, party expert at cardfactory, reassures that the most popular themes can be brought to life at no extreme cost.

The last rodeo

The cowgirl-themed hen party has seen a 110 percent increase in searches over the last year.

This theme is expected to remain popular in 2024 as it can be personalised to the bride and doesn’t break the bank.

With some country music (Shania Twain), statement boots, and cowboy hats, it’s an easy but fun one to bring to life.

@madsminni The Final Hoedown #hens #hensrodeo #finalhoedown #letsgogirls #fyp #rodeo #hensparty #henspartyinspo #misstomrs ♬ original sound – mads ♡

Back to the ’90s

As we are all too aware, ’90s babies are hitting their 30s, so the 40 percent increase in searches for a ’90s-themed hen party makes sense.

This theme strays away from the traditional hen for a funny and nostalgic take on the pre-wedding celebrations.

From old-school playlists (think Britney, Christina, Spice Girls, etc) to fancy-dress costumes, it’s sure to be one to remember.

This one is a great option as it can be tailored to the bride-to-be’s year of birth, favourite ’90s hits, or callbacks to their favourite fashion from that era.

@rubywoodhead98 Laura’s 90’s themed fancy dress hen party 🥂💃🏼 BOOYAKASHAAA ! #aligcostume #90sthrowback #90stheme #fancydress #henparty #alig #foryou #foryoupage #90sfancydress ♬ We like to Party! (The Vengabus) – More Airplay – Vengaboys

Tea parties

This is a gorgeous way to celebrate a hen outdoors, especially as we make our way through spring and into summer.

Tea party hen parties are also a great choice for brides who maybe would prefer something tamer than the wilder, more drink-orientated hen party themes.

“Tea parties are a popular one with hens at the moment, and a nice way to step away from the raunchier hen party traditions, should that be… well, your cup of tea,” Amy explains.

“While outside parties probably aren’t high on the list for hen parties this side of the year, May is known for being a popular month for hen parties, making this a great option if you’re looking at a Spring date.”

@balloonup #bridalshower #bridalparty #henparty #bridalshowerideas #teaparty #teapartytheme #afternoontea #partyideas #bridalpartygoals ♬ La Vie En Rose – Emily Watts

Last Disco

One search of #lastdisco into TikTok and you’ll be met with videos that have garnered millions of views.

This theme is expected to grow in popularity this year.

“A bride’s last disco is a sure way to get people singing and dancing if that’s what you’re looking for,” Amy says.

“Not only is it on trend right now, but it’s inclusive for all ages making it a showstopper for those with mothers and mother-in-laws in attendance.

Decor such as foil fringes, balloon banners, 70s disco hits, and a disco ball, and you’re off to a winner.

@gohen_com Hen Party Themes: The Last Disco 🪩💃🏻 #thelastdisco #henparty #henpartyideas #henpartyplanning #henpartythemeideas #hendo ♬ sure thing – lulu

Movie or musical-inspired hens

Barbie, of course, has infiltrated hen parties since the movie’s release in 2023.

There has been a 1,300 percent increase in searches for ‘Barbie hen do’, with pink taking over pretty much every item at the party.

Searches for ‘Mamma Mia hen do’ and ‘Disney hen do’ have had a surge in searches over the last 12 months.

“The Barbie movie truly touched all parts of our lives it seems, and for great reason. A simple one to turn around with pink options for pretty much every party item, this is a theme you can really scale up or down depending on everything from the bride to the location and the budget,” Amy says.

“Create your own DIY pink balloon arch for the perfect picture backdrop, or build some party favour bags to hold key accessories for the event, such as t-shirts, disposable cameras, and treats.”

@limodonnell BARBIE GLAM HENS 💖🦄💩🦋🥳🦄 #barbiehensparty #barbieparty #barbiebachelorette #hibarbie #hensoutfit #bachelorette #hen #badreputation #bridalparty #OOTD ♬ Bad Reputation – Joan Jett

Wellness and wholesome hens

For brides who are in their wellness era, a wholesome weekend centered around relaxation and slow living may be the perfect theme.

These can be personalised to the hen, including anything that bridesmaids know makes her feel relaxed; yoga, meditation, hired chef, crafts, etc.

For the hens who aren’t too bothered about going out or drinking, wholesome or wellness weekends are a popular choice.

“More and more people are opting to be teetotal, and if your bride is one of them, many of the ‘traditional’ elements of a hen party probably won’t be their preferred choice,” Amy explains.

“Take a moment to think about what the bride loves to do with their spare time, as this could help spark some unique ideas.”