Bachelor Parties in New York

The bachelor party is a men-only night/weekend of hanging out. Usually the best man will host the party and plan it, but everyone invited will be expected to pitch in for the cost. With so many fun things possible in New York, many parties are really just outings, maybe going to a club, going bungee-jumping, etc.

You may be worried about the whole idea of the bachelor party- convinced that your husband-to-be will be spending the night with strippers and alcohol. There are a couple things you can do about this. One option is to not insist on having every detail of the party- don't even ask where they're going. Just assume the best and get on with your life.

If you are really concerned about his party, tell him. You can have a serious talk with him and find out what he had in mind for his party. If he really wanted to go to one last mud-wrestling contest before your marriage, maybe you could accept his wishes. If he had something a little more raunchy in mind, you may compromise with him, or try to persuade him to do something different. You should also have him tell his best man what the party's "rating" should be. If he wants to keep it PG, the best man should respect that and plan accordingly.

Just make sure you don't make it a big deal- if you get too stressed about it, the issue may lead to a postponed, or even canceled, wedding. Don't try to force your fiancé to do (or not do) something he would regret. This is his last big bash as a "free" man, and he should be able to have fun.

Usually, you will select your attendants out of your closest friends and family. These people will be the most likely candidates for helping you with all of your wedding planning. If you have more friends and family in New York who can help besides those chosen as attendants, you are in luck. The more people you have helping you, the less stressful your wedding planning will be. Here is a list of typical assignments for friends and family:

Groom:

• Helps with what he can of wedding planning

• Plans the honeymoon

• Picks the band/DJ

• Picks men's attire

Mother:

• Helps pick out wedding dress

• Helps with the theme (flowers, colors, etc.)

• Helps put together guest list and seating chart

Father:

• Pays for the wedding or helps with the budget

• Plans the toasts and heads them

• Helps coordinate the wedding day

• Deals with vendors

Maid/Matron of Honor:

• Helps with whatever planning she is needed for

• Plans the bridal shower (and may host it)

• Sticks close to the bride on the wedding day to help out

• Holds the groom's ring

Best Man:

• Helps groom pick attire

• Plans/hosts the bachelor party

• Gets the groom ready and there on time

• Holds the bride's ring

Bridesmaids:

• Help make favors (if you are)

• Help address invitations

• Help plan the bachelorette party/ bridal shower

Groomsmen:

• Help plan the bachelor party

• Help the groom with any tasks he has for them

• Can be ushers at the wedding

• Decorate the getaway car

Non-attendant family/friends:

• Provide support

• Help with large jobs (favors, invitations, etc.)

• May stand in the receiving line with everyone previously listed

• Can be given simple tasks that the attendants don't have time for

No matter what tasks you decide to delegate, it is always vital for you to thank everyone who helped plan your big day. Some people do this with gifts, others just give a card or even just a hug. Also, always remember that they are there to help you and support you with any task you give them.