Ok... I seem to have two date options for my hen do. It needs to be a weekend rather than a 'one night' thing really, as several friends will be travelling a long way to come. I do however want to keep the cost down, so that people don't feel they can't afford to come.
Option one - one week before the wedding.
Pro's:
-I can only find minimum lets of 3 nights for self catering. This is a bank holiday weekend, so at least people can come for the full 3 nights without having to take time off work.
-The weather may be nicer (late May) - better for doing 'Lake District' things
-There is a particular event on which I think would be a good and inexpensive hen activity (racing at local course - very informal, only £10 to get in, take a picnic)
-My best friend/bridesmaid would be able to come (she lives in Bangkok at the moment, but is coming over for the wedding, so could do hen do if just before wedding). I also have 3 other good friends living over seas - all of whom may or may not make it for the wedding - but if any do come, they may also be able to come to hen do if close together.
Cons:
-Bad bank holiday traffic.
-Majority of accomodation only allows 7 day rather than 3 day lets at this time of year, so accommodation options will be quite limited.
-Prices higher (esp with it being a bank holiday)
-People may feel they can't attend events at different ends of the country 2 weekends on the trot (hen do, wedding) - financially or logistically.
-I may be stressed out with wedding the following weekend (but then maybe a relaxing weekend away with friends will be just what I need ... or not?!)
-Lake district will be crawling (could be difficult getting into restaurants and activities etc).
Option 2 - 6 weeks before wedding
Pros:
-May have more options allowing 3 night rather than 7 night lets (though not loads more - its still after Easter)
-Prices should be lower
-People may find it easier to make both events if they are not so close together
Cons:
-Best friend wont be able to come (same for 3 other O/S friends, although I wouldn't anticipate them all being able to make the other weekend either)
-Weather may be worse (mid April)
-6 weeks before seems quite early? And I will need to start organsing SOON!
-People will either have to take the Monday off work, or pay for 3 nights and only stay 2 (can't find 2 night lets for suitable accommodation ANYWHERE!)
-Harder to arrange activities - no racing, and less chance of good weather
What do other people think? As a bride to be, and as a hypothetical guest?
