With Valentine’s Day sparking an annual wave of proposals, wedding season isn’t far behind! That’s when the bride and bridegroom tribes need to step up to their most important pre-wedding duty: planning the ultimate bachelor and bachelorette celebrations. If you’ve been tapped as the party planner-in-chief, First Group’s Managing Director, Shaun Lamont, shares some tips to help make your bestie’s last single bash one to remember.
“Bachelor(ette) parties, like everything else, are evolving,” says Lamont. “Today, more people are swapping the traditional night out for well-planned weekend getaways that offer better value and additional fun experiences.” It’s a trend that Hollywood has long played with – think The Hangover and Best Night Ever, where destination weekends turn into chaotic adventures. But while those films lean into disaster, real-life bachelor(ette) getaways are all about prolonging the fun, making lasting magical memories, and (hopefully) delivering fewer surprises.”
Lamont believes that resort destinations are the ideal choice, offering the perfect blend of fun and convenience. “With everything in one place and within walking distance, there’s no need for designated drivers or the hassle of coordinating complicated logistics,” he says. “And, the unmatched convenience of having restaurants, bars, entertainment, and activities on your doorstep ensures a seamless, stress-free experience. This allows everyone to fully relax and enjoy quality time together as they celebrate the prospective bride or groom for a weekend, not just an evening.”
Resorts also offer private self-catering options such as chalets, providing the perfect mix of privacy and sociability,” adds Lamont. “They’re a budget-friendly option as guests have the flexibility to bring their own food and drinks. This means they can prepare some meals and enjoy casual braais while spending quality time together, without the expense of dining out all the time”.
He notes that First Group’s properties – like Magalies Park in the North West and Midlands Saddle & Trout in KZN, which both offer self-catering chalets and excellent amenities – have seen a significant rise in bachelor(ette) weekend bookings. Think lazy afternoons by the pool, friendly round-robin padel or tennis tournaments, spa treatments, golf, horse riding, and more. “With built-in entertainment that requires minimal planning, resorts offer an effortless yet indulgent choice to suit either group,” Lamont continues. “It’s also the perfect opportunity for the bride- or groom-to-be to unwind and take a breather from all the planning before the big day.”
And if you want a hassle-free experience for the main event, certain resorts in First Group’s portfolio have staff skilled in arranging group celebrations – from welcome drinks by the pool to exclusive use of facilities such as private dining rooms. Adding a few personal touches such as decorations, memory keepsakes or even a ‘surprise’ during the event, will elevate the experience even further, making for an unforgettable bachelor(ette) party.
Getting the most out of a pre-wedding getaway requires strategic planning. Lamont offers a few tips for those wanting a celebratory destination weekend:
✔ Book during shoulder season (March-May or September-November) for better rates and great weather. Some resorts also offer group booking discounts for parties of eight or more.
✔ Create a shared digital payment pool three to six months in advance, allowing guests to contribute gradually.
✔ Opt for self-catering resorts to reduce food and beverage costs.
✔ Choose venues with complimentary activities if you are on a tight budget.
✔ Consider mid-week getaways if possible for better rates and availability.
✔ Many resorts offer early-bird discounts leading to significant savings and ensuring you get your first choice of venue.
“A well-planned bachelor(ette) getaway with the right mix of fun and relaxation isn’t just a celebration. It’s creating memories the guest of honour will cherish forever and becoming a legendary weekend that will become part of your collective story. It may even turn out to be the epic yardstick for all the group’s future adventures,” Lamont concludes.
For more information about First Group resorts, visit https://www.firstgroup-sa.co.za