Hen parties are often seen as rowdy affairs, and rightly so, but that doesn’t mean that painting the town red is the only way for you and your girl squad to celebrate before the big day. These days, there are endless different things you can plan for a hen do from city breaks to adventure days and everything in between.    

Seeing as wedding planning can be stressful enough as it is, why not spend your hen do by indulging in some much-needed rest and recuperation? 

There’s no better way to do so than by getting away with your entire hen party for a relaxing spa weekend. With hen party spa days now more popular than ever, there will be plenty of options for you to choose from. Use this time to forget about the stresses of everyday life – and the chaos that is often wedding planning – by stepping into a relaxing spa environment where you can feel your worries and tensions melting away as you enjoy the treatments on offer and share a glass or two of bubbly with the girls.

Most of us have been to a spa at one time or another. If you haven’t yet, you might very well be wondering what to expect. From what you should be wearing at any given time, to what the proper etiquette is, spas can sometimes be a minefield to navigate for a first-timer.

Here are some quite pointers on what you should wear when, why you should save the drinking for later, and the importance of remembering to take some photos! 

For the most part, you’ll be spending your day lounging around in a robe. Slipping on a swimsuit or bikini underneath is a good idea so you can take a dip in the pool, have a soak in the hot tub, or kick back in the sauna for a bit. 

As for any treatments, simply ask your therapist if you need to remove any clothing before your appointment. Generally speaking, when getting a massage you will be covered by a towel but do speak to your massage therapist if you don’t feel comfortable taking off your swimwear.  For facials, therapists tend to take the products down to your neck and decolletage, so it is up to you if you want to move your bra straps out of the way to keep them clean. Keep in mind that like when receiving a massage, you will also be covered in a towel during your facial so there’s no need to be self-conscious.  

While spa days still come with a glass or two of bubbly – especially if you’ve booked a hen party package – remember that you’re here to relax. You can get to the party proper later, but make sure you don’t overdo it on prosecco, especially if you are having treatments done or are planning on spending any time in the sauna or steam room.

Instead, organise a light lunch or afternoon tea for the hens to round off your day of relaxation. 

These days, if there are snaps or Instagram stories of an event, did it even happen? No one can argue that it’s good to have a digital detox for the day, but don’t forget to grab some group photos when you hit the spa, or as you leave. You will all surely cherish this time for years to come, and what better way to preserve the memory of the hen party than some group photos of everyone?