These days many couples decide to start their celebrations before the big day for a couple of reasons.  Firstly obviously it extends the fun time! and secondly it can sometimes be an opportunity to celebrate with guests who are not attending the wedding.

The options are far broader than the old days of bucks or hens nights and really are only limited by your imagination.  But if you would like some ideas, read on!

Kitchen/Lingerie/Pamper/Cosmetic - these tend to be "just for the girls" events and may be a great idea for the Mums, Aunties, Cousins style of get together.

Barbecue Party - This is an outdoor party your man will want - he'll end up having the best equipped barbie in town!

Girls/Guys Night out - Obviously a night at least a week before for each of you to go and let your hair down with your mates!

Cellar Party - You can never have too many bottles of wine!  This is fun for everyone!

Garden Shower - Guests bring gifts to turn yur backyard into an oasis by bringing plants, flowers, pots, tools etc. Great for those who need help outdoors!

Bath & Bed Shower - Guests can give you anything from bubble bath to linen to "fun" toys!

Time Shower - The gifts are relevant to the time that you invite each group of guests over, i.e. 10am - coffee cups, 7pm - wine glasses, 10pm - pyjamas.

Alphabet shower - Each guest is given a letter of the alphabet and offers a gift that starts with that letter.