Most of us don't have the budget for a Parisian-themed blowout à la Bridesmaids, but that doesn't mean a bride-to-be should settle for an early bird special in the name of savings.
Though it may seem like bar-hopping at nearby watering holes is the cheapest way to go, money becomes no object once the booze starts flowing. There are other ways to host a memorable ladies' night out without the life-size cookie and gut-wrenching bar tab, so consider these six ideas before rounding up the girls.
1. Get Out of Town
This is the ideal option but not always the most economical. There are ways to reduce the costs associated with an all-girls getaway, but be prepared to plan well in advance. First, consider a one-night stay somewhere nearby or relatively close to attendees' respective homes. Once a location is established, let partygoers know the details so they can get booking. Find party accessories and outfit the bride in a little girl's tiara to wear when you go out on the town.
2. Scavenger Hunt
Channel your inner child and create a scavenger hunt for the bride, complete with challenges to solicit free drinks from strangers and requests for silly photos and be prepared to uncover unknowns in your hometown.
3. At-home Wine Tasting
If the bride-to-be isn't into the bar-hopping-male-stripper scene, consider hosting an at-home wine tasting. Cut costs by asking attendees to bring a bottle of their favorite wine-and-snack duo. You'll need a wine glass for every attendee, plus water and bread to serve as palette cleansers.
4. Lots of Laughs
The stress of wedding planning is likely getting to everyone, so a night full of laughter might just be what the doctor ordered. Check out your local comedy club and call ahead for front-row seating.
5. Paint & Sip
If you haven't yet taken advantage of the paint and sip trend, consider this your golden opportunity. What better way to celebrate the bride's pending nuptials than with a wine-laden arts and crafts session? Hit up a nearby studio, or tap into a friend's artistic talent by having her lead the session at someone's home.
6. Bridal Bowling
You'll get plenty of attention as a group of all-girls in a bowling alley, but consider taking it a step further by outfitting the bride and attendants in the worst available versions of thrift-store wedding attire. Call ahead to reserve a couple lanes and talk to the manager about available packages, including pre-ordered food and a personal attendant. Let the good times roll!
Andrea Woroch is a consumer and money-saving expert for Kinoli Inc. For more information e-mail her at andrea@kinoliinc.com.
