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Novelty veils, sweaty strippers and sex toys don’t have to feature in your farewell to the single life. Here's how to plan a stylish hen’s night.

The age of first-time brides is rising – women are now tying the knot at an average age of 29, up two years in the past decade – so, by the time we arrive at the altar, many women have left their partying days behind. Sucheta Kotwal – founder of hens.com.au, an online database of tasteful hen’s night options – says if you’ve been given the task of organising an event to remember, start by speaking to your bride. “Make sure you know what she’s going to enjoy. It doesn’t have to be completely specific; an element of surprise is fine.”

If your bride wants to be pampered, book a small group in to a day spa – or, for a more indulgent experience, stay at a boutique hotel with an in-house spa. “Another option,” says Kotwal, “is a mobile pampering service that comes to your hen’s party at home.” If your bride-to-be wants to venture out, a popular afternoon option is high tea. Or try cocktail-making classes where you enjoy your concoctions afterwards – Zeta bar at Sydney’s Hilton Hotel (hiltonsydney.com.au) hosts them. Another option is an art lesson, complete with easel, bubbly and nude male model.

Celebrating your hen’s night at home is another viable option and allows you to get creative. “A dinner party is always a success,” says Susan Stanford, wedding etiquette expert for i-do.com.au. “Hire a caterer, order in some flowers, have nice wine in stock, play music the bride loves and ensure the décor looks fabulous.” Incorporating a theme also works – if your friend is a Francophile, sort out Moët, fromage and berets for all. If she’s honeymooning in Morocco, consider hiring a belly dancer. Such entertainment (read: not the stripper kind) is sure to put everyone in a celebratory mood.

Inspiration or dissuasion? What celebrities have done

Nicole Kidman hosted an event at her sister’s home and asked each guest to bring along a favourite recipe, which she is reported to be making into a memento book.

Eva Longoria and Tony Parker arranged for a nightclub in St Tropez to be split in half for their parties.

Christina Aguilera spent four days celebrating with close girlfriends in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico – she wore a tiara the entire time.

Private Practice actress Kate Walsh lived it up in sunny Las Vegas with strippers, cocktails and dancing.

A budget for the night (per person) should be agreed upon, then the cost split between all attendees – except the bride.

Pay in advance to avoid confusion.

If you’re heading out, keep destinations to two or three, to avoid getting split up.

Don’t plan the celebration too close to the wedding – two weeks before is adequate.

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