Ladies Nights, Gentleman's evenings, Office, Charity and Leaving functions. Last minute bookings.
The Hen Party Origin and Phenomenon
Hen parties originated from the sexual revolution of the sixties and seventies and peaked in England in the nineties. Now it's an almost essential ritual amongst young women in their twenties to forties and as popular as ever for their pre-wedding party. Initially the bride-to-be's colleagues at work celebrated her transition in role from work to family life and motherhood. UK businesses quickly took advantage of the opportunity to merchandise and sell activities around it adding further to its popularity over the past twenty years. Typical spend on a hen party is now thought to be at least 110 pounds.
Hen parties often take on various themes and range in taste from sophisticated to wild. The stereotypical party often involves male strippers, penis paraphernalia, sexual games and excessive drinking. Sophisticated variations involve shopping or attending pampering sessions while the bride and her female friends have a chance to chat, giggle and share stories without men in their company.
Close friends, family and the future Mother in-law have a chance to bond and give gifts to the bride. Often one of the bridesmaids will be chosen for the role of maid of honour, to help with the planning of a hen party. Often in major cities like London and Brighton you can spot hen party groups walking around the streets wearing sashes while the bride wears L plates or a veil as part of the ritual.
Why Do Hens Wear L-Plates around their neck?
A bride to be or newlywed would be considered a Learner as far as marriage goes hence it being common in the UK to wear a learner L plate around their neck while out on a hen night. Alluding to the challenges of a new marriage the analogy of learning to drive seems apt. Some L-plate necklaces have 'passed' on the other side.