Setting the Stage

Beer in Snow

When deciding what the bachelor party will consist of, it’s okay to ask the groom if he has any specific “wants” or “don’t wants.” You shouldn’t make any promises—or hound him about what he wants to do—but getting his input is valuable. The next step is to consult the other guys in the wedding party; they undoubtedly will come up with ideas that hadn’t occurred to you. If you’re stuck for ideas, check out these suggestions that incorporate the groom’s personality:

  • The Introvert—For the guy who prefers staying in and hanging with only his best buddies, bring the party to him. A few select friends can play poker, watch the big game, talk smack, and drink up all night long.
  • The Life of the Party—If the groom isn’t having a good time until someone is dancing on a table, you’d better plan a line-up of clubs, clubs, and more clubs. Ask around to get recommendations for some of the top night spots in town, hit a comedy revue, or maybe even take the party on the road to famous celebration spot like Vegas.
  • The Sports Freak—Guys who know the months of May through September as “baseball season” rather than “summer” will likely enjoy a bachelor party jam-packed with sports. Start the day at the batting cages or on the ice, reserve a block of tickets to the Blue Jays or the Maple Leafs, and follow it with burgers at a sports bar where he can see the post-game wrap up on a big screen.
  • The “Finer Things in Life” Guy—He has a subscription to Cigar Aficionado magazine and a Jag in the garage, so a get-together at the corner bar just won’t cut it. Schedule a tee-time at his favorite golf course, have lunch at the hottest bistro in town, go to a tasting at a microbrewery or vineyard, and hit a wine-and-cigar bar for a refined conclusion.
  • The Outdoorsman—If he has a bumper sticker on his SUV that says “I’d rather be fishing,” take him at his word. Even if you hate the idea of bait and slimy fish, gather the boys and hit the lake—or go hunting or paintballing or camping.
  • The Daredevil—His idea of a good time is jumping out of a plane, so you’ll have to feed his need for speed. Depending on the weather, go mountain climbing, white-water rafting, or hit the black diamond slopes at a ski resort.

Next: Managing the details