Party Planning...It's Thoughtfulness That Counts

Each bride is different -- not all brides want a bachelorette party, while others are excited about having a raunchily good time with their closest friends. Talk to the bride about what she wants before going all out and hiring a stripper. Here are some ideas for bachelorette parties, from the traditional to the elegant.

Raunchy Bachelorette Fun. Sixth Street is your destination for a traditional bachelorette party. Debauchery is the name of the game. Make the bride feel special by purchasing a tiara for her to wear throughout the night, and make sure everyone around you knows that you’re celebrating the upcoming nuptials. This website has a great list of all the Sixth Street bars you can hit up on the night of the party. Also, make the night special (and safe) by hiring a limo to get you around the city.

Relaxed Spa Day. Many brides just aren’t up for a night of drinking and rowdiness, so plan a day she’ll really enjoy -- and you will too. Head to one of Austin’s best spas for manicures, pedicures, facials, and/or massages. Here's a list of the top rated spas in Austin to make your job easier.

Out of Town Party. More and more brides are having one last hurrah with their ladies at out of town destinations. If you and the other bridesmaids can afford the trip, check out The Knot’s top three picks for out of town bachelorette party ideas, which come complete with hotel and restaurant recommendations.

Bridal Showers
While bachelorette parties are all about the bride spending time with her bridesmaids, the bridal shower includes other important -- usually female -- friends and family members. Mom, grandma, aunts, in-laws, siblings, and extended family members are usually on the invitation list, and the event takes place over a meal (often brunch or lunch). It’s typical for a bride to receive gifts at the bridal shower; usually small items from the registry or other things, like chic lingerie, that she can use on her honeymoon.