Bachelor Party Etiquette to Keep the Bride and Groom Happy

Yes, it’s time for what could potentially be the most memorable party you could ever have—until another buddy gets married that is. Before you dive into planning what outrageous things you want to check off your bucket list, here are a few tips to make sure everything ends well. The mission is to make sure the groom gets one last shot to celebrate his life as a bachelor then—in one, sane piece—sweep his beautiful bride off her feet into happily ever after.

• The best man is in charge of planning.

You know the groom best and he trusts you the most, so it’s reasonable to think that you should be in charge of planning the party and inviting guests.  However, it’s always best to run the party’s guest list by him even if you think you know all his friends. You never know, he could’ve had a recent rift with a relative or he wants to include family.

The groom could also decide on the venue but the rest of the guys get to plan everything else from the transportation to the activities. Just make sure you don’t do anything the groom wouldn’t be comfortable with. Make sure to choose activities where everyone can have a good time without breaking any bones or getting into trouble.

Caution: Avoid the urge to surprise him with a stripper. If he doesn’t want any at his party, keep it that way.

• Expenses should be split among the guests.

The groom gets to pay for nothing as he’s the guest-of-honor. Discuss with the groomsmen and any additional guests how the bill should be split. Some of your pals may not have extra cash to splurge on a single night (or weekend) of partying, so approach this matter with care and be sensitive to others situations. Plans might have to be adjusted for financial considerations but do make sure the groom stays comfortable throughout.

• No dangerous stunts please.

Again, keep the groom in one piece and stick to the bachelor party commandments. You don’t want him turning up at the wedding with a cast (or even a bandage) and have the bride worrying about what happened. Bottom line: Avoid anything that could create the need for a hospital or a doctor’s appointment. This includes watching your alcohol intake.

• Don’t do it right before the wedding.

Give yourselves time to recover from a night of partying. You don’t want to accidentally drop the ring from being so hung-over or have the groom drunkenly saying his “I Do.” Allow a day or two for recuperation. Better yet, have it weeks ahead, particularly if you’re planning to spend some time out in the sun to lighten up the unwanted tan.

As for the grooms: Thank your men!

From pooling in money to planning the entire party and ensuring you get back to your bride the same as when she last saw you, your buddies did a lot to make sure you enjoy your last moments as a single man. Express your heartfelt gratitude with personalized groomsmen gifts. Show them you treasure the memories you’ve shared from the bachelor party and all the good times that came before.