Planning a stag do is never easy. Although some grooms take it more seriously than others, there is an expectation that you, likely the best man, have to put together a memorable occasion. The details aren’t so important, but the flow of the day or weekend must make sense and be the trip of a lifetime.
Sorting out the basics
The first couple of things to focus on rather unfortunately are the basics and admin – the boring stuff. But, it’s the absolutely most important bit to make sure all of the right people can make it.
So, firstly is to set a date and set it early. This will require some communication with the groom about how early in advance before the wedding he wants the stag do and what date(s) are best for him.
Then, it’s best to ask him exactly who he wants and doesn’t want (don’t assume anyone). Ask him for their names and contact details (and perhaps who they are to him). Once you have this list of names, start a group chat (without the groom) immediately.
Budgeting and Collecting Money
Next is another brief, boring, but important step. Decide on a budget that suits everyone. Try to be careful here, as some people will likely have smaller budgets than others. Generally, you want to cater to the lowest common denominator because the groom likely wants everyone there. If there’s an odd one out that simply cannot afford anything other than the pub, either consider chipping in for him, or discuss this with the groom.
This is the time where you decide on whether it will be a local trip, a weekend away, or a full-blown vacation. Once you have a budget, you can move on to the fun bit. Well, almost.
It sounds OTT but it’s worth creating a simple spreadsheet (you can keep this to yourself). You need a place to track people’s bank transfers to you. Share your details on the group chat and a price everyone is happy with. Offer for everyone to chip in slightly more to pay for the groom and keep on top of who is sending you money. There’s often one or two that are a struggle to get money out of, so have no shame in reminding them (perhaps publicly on the group chat).
Be transparent and remember to put some money aside for the day too, because you may end up spending more than you think.
Choosing the Perfect Destination
Selecting the right destination will come down to a couple of things. Firstly budget, but also what kind of vibe and itinerary you want. If it’s going to be centered around nightlife and the budget allows it, booking a bunch of hotel rooms in Barcelona or Madrid at Sercotel will be affordable yet super lively.
If your budget is smaller, or the vibe more subdued, consider chipping in for a cabin in the woods. You won’t need to leave the country, and the price can be affordable when there are many people. Hot tub and a house party can be just fine, and perhaps scan the local area for paintballing or similar.
Of course, consider what the groom wants out of this and go from there. Places like Prague and Amsterdam, while very touristy, cater to stag dos in that they have many activities. You may even see other stag dos on the same night.
Planning an Epic Itinerary
Once you’ve decided on your vibe and destination, you can begin getting things booked. Begin by researching activities that are good for groups. If it’s a city like Madrid you’re going to, there should be plenty of group brewery tours, whisky tasking, and perhaps urban go-karting or Total Wipeout style areas.
If you’re going more rural then look for water sports, extreme sports, and perhaps paintball. Though, don’t overpack the day – the worst thing to do is to include too much travel/commuting. Allow for time to go for a meal and drinks, perhaps a VIP table or a pub crawl, to enjoy the chatter and banter.
Here you have to be very organized when it comes to transportation. Consider plan B if things go wrong or trains are late. Give yourself contingency too, because it can be tricky shifting a bunch of people to different places who may not be sober.
Personalizing the Experience
Where you can, try to make the experience and personal as possible. Don’t get just read a guide like this and box-tick. Instead, really consider what the groom’s interests are, inside jokes, and lean into these. For example, it may or may not be a good idea to get them an embarrassing outfit or t-shirt that draws attention to them. You don’t need to do this if the groom would clearly be uncomfortable. Or, do it in a more toned down way.
A surprise or two wouldn’t go amiss. Perhaps a special guest appearance from a celebrity or a look-a-like, such as a David Brent’s impersonator who sometimes does stag dos and is very good at it (he’ll hang out with your for an hour or two). Or, the dress code could be Peaky Blinders because it’s their favorite show. You may decide on rules, perhaps drinking rules, that create a truly unique night that is like no other.
Final Word
Organized fun is tricky to get right. Too organized and it takes the fun out of it, but you’re not going to succeed by being too laid back about the trip. Instead, get stuck in early with the admin and planning, allowing you to relax more closer to the time and enjoy the day. The planning should be done in a way that you too can enjoy yourself, rather than feel as if you’re the project manager.
