I’m no stranger to dreaming up epic bachelorette party ideas and games. It’s almost become something of a hobby, seeing as I’m on track to be one of the last of my friends to get married. Aside from serving as a bridesmaid and Maid of Honor in countless bridal parties, I’ve attended all kinds of bachelorette events and I love throwing creative themed parties in general. It’s kind of my jam!

So if you’re looking for a fun twist to take your current bachelorette party planning to the next level, look no further because I’ve got you covered with a list of party favors and props that will make your event super memorable!

1. Celebrity Cardboard Cutout

(Literally one of my best bachelorette party games EVER)

How it works: Justin Bieber is the bride-to-be’s official escort for the entire evening. She must keep Justin Bieber within 5 feet of her at any given time. If she wanders outside of that radius, she must take a shot or complete a funny task determined by the group (like get a phone number, hit on someone with a cheesy pickup line, acquire an article of clothing from a stranger). This prop provides extra entertainment during bathroom breaks and taxi rides.

Paparazzi Bonus: Inevitably people that you encounter will want to take a selfie with the Biebs, and this will cost them $1 or more. Someone is in charge of enforcing the paparazzi policy and collecting this money on behalf of the bride. A sign stating “Photos: $1” might be a fun side prop.

Note: It doesn’t actually need to be a Justin Bieber cardboard cutout, but I will say that Justin Bieber is a guaranteed crowd pleaser because he is such a polarized celebrity, both widely despised and loved. Any life-sized cardboard cutout will do, but the original idea is to make a spectacle so the cheesier the better. No doubt a George Clooney or Justin Timberlake cutout has its own appeal as well.

2. Giant Inflatables

How it works: Beyond being practical and fun, inflatable pool toys make a beach or pool themed bachelorette party really stand out. The bigger the inflatable pool float the better to give your bachelorette party a unique edge, especially if you can tie it into your overall theme (incidentally, I’ve also found pool floats made to look like
giant pretzels, lemon slices, and more). For example, an all white pool party would be that much better with this giant inflatable white swan or matching miniature swan drink holders, amiright??

Paparazzi Bonus: Want huge visual impact for selfie and photo opportunities??? Think BIG like this fabulous unicorn pool float from Big Mouth Toys, or small like these adorable miniature donut pool floats that act as drink holders while you’re lounging. Since you’ll be documenting this epic bachelorette party, trust me when I say that a choice inflatable prop or two will make posing that much more inspired!

Note: You’ll want to do a little homework to ensure that you can easily inflate your giant donut pool float. Bring an air compressor or pump if necessary. Additionally, while the beach or ocean shouldn’t be an issue, you may need to check on your venue’s pool rules to ensure that there are no restrictions on rafts and other flotation devices if you’re hosting a bachelorette pool party.

3. Marquee Signs

How it works: You buy or make your own DIY signs to provide a little extra flair to your venue. I love vintage marquee signs and you can often find them in a variety of sizes, colors, and finishes. If you choose a shape, letter, or phrase that is generic enough, it can be reused over and over again for other events or even become a permanent decorative fixture in someone’s home after the bachelorette party is over.

Paparazzi Bonus: A well placed LOVE-themed marquee sign or customizable light box provides additional ambient light, contributes a bit of magic and whimsy to your theme, and will give photos a fun backdrop.

Note: Check in advance with your venue to determine the availability of nearby power outlets, or search specifically for marquee signs that offer a battery powered option. Battery power also makes them more portable and more easily manipulated for photo opps.

4. Props You Can Wear

How it works: Depending on your theme, there are many opportunities to incorporate wearable props into your bachelorette party. Creative ideas don’t have to be costly either.

Paparazzi Bonus: Pretty obvious. Whatever you choose will be in a lot of photos, so keep that in mind.

Note: When you are choosing between bachelorette party ideas you always have to consider your audience. If the bride-to-be is pretty conservative, I probably wouldn’t go overboard on the X-rated wearable props. For group wearables, I like the idea of these gold foil “Bride Tribe” temporary tattoos, colorful Lolita style heart sunglasses or maybe “mugshot” signs suspended around the neck by a pretty ribbon because that way you won’t have to commit to the look 100% of the time.

Without a doubt custom t-shirts and tank tops that are printed or bedazzled with a phrase are always a popular choice, but can sometimes be difficult to size, may not be to everyone’s tastes, and may only get worn once. If you want to give the idea more personality (and save a little money) then I highly recommend this Bleach Pen Tank Top tutorial from Wedding Chicks.

5. For the Bride-to-Be

Think outside the box. Leave the mass-produced, chintzy plastic tiaras behind, and go for a more bespoke set of accessories to honor your bachelorette on her special day. Instead of a tacky veil from Party City, how about a classic elbow length tulle veil on a comb (you can get them on Amazon, Etsy and eBay for $20 or less), or a dainty flower crown?

BONUS: If you buy her one of the flower crowns from Headbands of Hope, you’ll be helping others because for every item purchased Headbands of Hope donates a lovely headband to a child with cancer.

Once the headgear is decided, round out her attire with this clever “Feyonce” tank top.

☞ A Final Note: Documentation!

This is going to be a night to remember, so don’t forget to bring along a few supplies for portable and easy documentation of the evening’s events. Here are some of my favorites:

Kootek® Wireless Remote for Selfies

Polaroid Digital Instant Print Camera

Polaroid Instant Film Camera