Tips for planning a great Bucks party

When someone says the phrase 'bucks party' there are several words that come to mind - yet for those that have been asked to organize one, there is far more planning that goes into a buck's party for it to be considered a success. Like organising any major event, there are several main factors that have to be provided:

• Date of party
• Activities
• Venue (travel and accommodation options if necessary)
• Food
• Guest list
• Payment

These basic elements all need to be considered by any event organiser, in this case the Best Man and the groom's closest male relatives, with all matters to be checked with the groom before deciding (it is his party after all). Date of the Party This should be discussed with the groom beforehand but a good rule of thumb is to have the buck's party at least four weeks before the wedding, a hung over groom is never a good look! Also check with the guest list as to when everyone else is free and send out 'save the dates' emails in the weeks leading up.

Activities

The activities are probably the main focus of an event - especially a buck's party - so it is important to think about what the party will do at the event. This can be anything from a wild boys night out to golf to extreme sports, but it is also a great idea to ask the groom what he would like to do for his party as this is really for him, so you don't want to organise something that he isn't comfortable with or his future wife will get mad about. Try to organise a party with a few different activities to keep it all moving along, for example, everyone first goes to the groom's favourite sporting game followed by drinks at his favourite pub before ending the day with a night out on the town or a dinner at his favourite restaurant.

If the buck's party is going to be fairly low key and held at someone's house, or if it has to be a fairly inexpensive night, then simply organise activities such as drinking games or traditional bachelor party games to keep the night moving. If you are stuck for ideas then there are a number of services available that cater for buck's parties such as buck party tours

Venue

This will usually be determined by the activities you have chosen for the party such as a golf course or VIP room in a nightclub where it is necessary to book out well beforehand, telling them it is for a buck's party (this will usually get a special package deal or rates). Yet the venue will often be a person's house so be sure to prepare it for the big event and make room for all the guests. Ensure that the venue is clearly outlined on the invitations to the guests with a map or directions included for those who may not be familiar with the area.

Food

Obviously a major component of any party, the food should be considered carefully before the party. Simply put there are two options: either eat out or provide the food. This will be determined by the chosen activities and the setting for the party. If eating out then plan where to go beforehand and make a booking for the entire group - showing up at a restaurant with 20+ people will be virtually impossible to seat so save the hassle of finding somewhere and always book ahead of time. If hosting at home, then buy loads of finger food that cooks quickly so you can feed the hungry guests.

Guest List

Ask the groom who he would like at the party but it will contain the male members of the wedding party, and any of his male relatives. When it comes to the bride's male relatives that will depend on what the groom says as well as any other wedding guests who may warrant an invite to the buck's party.

Payment

This can be sometimes awkward to organise but basically as the organiser of the party it is up to you to ensure that everyone has paid their share of the bill and that all fees are paid on time. For the sake of everyone, try to keep the costs as low as possible and let people know ahead of time how much everything will cost (especially any set activities).

A buck's party is a lot of fun for everyone involved, it's a chance for the groom to celebrate the next stage of his life and to kick back and have fun with his closest friends. Organising a buck's night needn't be a hassle and with smart planning and execution, it will be a great success for all involved.

For Australian wedding services and buck's party planners, please visit our Bucks nights pubs and party venues directory