A few weeks ago, we provided ideas on how bachelors can stay out of the doghouse with some great bachelor party alternatives. Now, we're giving equal time to the ladies and providing some options for their bachelorette parties.
"What is one of the top activities women love to do together?" asked Heather Jones of Wente Vineyards. "Drink wine of course!
"When looking for more low-key bachelorette party activities, be sure to include wine tasting in your search. Many wineries will have private tasting rooms available that you can reserve in advance and avoid having to wait for counter space to open up. Even better, ask the winery if they have themed tastings available so that you can really make the experience custom to the bride's taste."
Brides looking for a more laid back atmosphere for their bachelorette party should consider more off-the-beaten-path locales. "We find that groups flock to Livermore for that very reason-the Tri-Valley is home to award-winning wineries and renowned restaurants while San Francisco is just a short drive away," said Jones.
Bachelorette parties are meant to help the bride and her bridesmaids relax, so Megan Velez of Destination Weddings Travel Group, recommends a visit to a spa resort.
"Tranquil resorts with spa services have become a popular choice for the ladies and the choices have grown," she said. "Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts, for example, has been a leader in this movement, bringing the all-inclusive spa experience to the Caribbean, and many resorts have followed suit by focusing their property on health and wellbeing."
Velez also suggests an all-inclusive resort. "It helps for groups that are looking to stick to a budget, as they can know the flat rate going into their travels and take advantage of all the included restaurants, bars and activities onsite," she said. "That way, the ladies can pre-allocate their leftover budget and time to taking in excursions and cultural experiences offsite."
Leah Weinberg suggests that the bridal party head to super trendy Palm Springs, California.
"I realize it's super trendy at the moment, but Palm Springs is such a fun, retro-chic desert oasis filled with amazing hotels, spas, and restaurants, that it makes for the perfect place to have a bachelorette weekend," said Weinberg, owner and Lead Planner, Color Pop Events.
"One of my absolute favorite hotels in Palm Springs has to be The Saguaro. It has endless activities for the non-cliché bachelorette party, from spending time in the spa to renting bikes and cruising around Palm Springs, to sipping margaritas by the pool or even participating in some yoga. It's colorful, mid-century vibes will provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing, fun bachelorette weekend to remember."
Another one of Weinberg's favorite hotels in Palm Springs is Arrive. "With a more clean, modern feel, this hotel is the perfect venue for a bride-to-be with a sweet tooth, because located on the property is the adorable little gem, Ice Cream & Shop(pe)-an ideal spot to throw a bachelorette ice cream sundae party! In addition to the ice cream, they have tons of cute items in the shop; perhaps a perfect place to pick up gifts for the wedding party."
Although many people view New Orleans, Louisiana as a "drinking town," Kim Sayatovic of Belladeux Event Design, recommends the city for a bachelorette party for those brides and their bridesmaids who prefer not to imbibe.
"There are many ways you can celebrate a bachelorette party here sans alcohol," she said. "Focusing on the, music, food and art should be the top priority when visiting our secret paradise."
Sayatovic said that bridal parties would be hard pressed not find a fun place to dance the night away, or even the day if you aren't a night owl.
"Plan your trip around one of our thousands of music festivals, like The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival," she suggested.
[READMORE]READ MORE: Study Outlines The Facts Behind Bachelor, Bachelorette Parties.[/READMORE]
In addition, she recommends checking into a private home rental or a hotel right in the mix of the French Quarter. "The French Quarter is filled with antique stores, art stores, restaurants, and even modern trends," she said. "If you chose a place to stay in the heart of downtown you won't even need to think about a car. Everything is walkable."
Finally, she suggests Magazine Street, an area of New Orleans filled with shopping and fun. "Hire a car service for you and your girls and hit up as many stores as you can. If you book ahead of time you can stop along the way to enjoy an afternoon of spa services to accentuate your new purchases!"
In general, Sayatovic said there are many ways you can make a New Orleans bachelorette party alcohol free. "Take a cooking class, learn how to make a Mardi Gras mask, or just people watch in Jackson square. We are a city filled with magical sights and sounds! Take full advantage and be as creative as possible."
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