The bachelorette party is a rite of passage for every bride; an event that she and her closest girls will remember fondly, albeit possibly a little hazily for years to come. Planning this event is a challenge in itself when trying to please the bride and her entourage of overly excited (and opinionated) friends, sisters and sisters-in-law. If you're the bridesmaid or maid of honor taking on this event, stay strong and organized; there is a lot to consider when throwing a great bachelorette event.

The first step is establishing what your bride will enjoy. This is her event and asking the bride for suggestions is the best way to get started, even if you are going to keep the actual event a surprise. If she normally enjoys a wild night out with her girls, you know you are safe in taking her out into the wee hours of the morning. On the other hand, if she is truly turned off by "Magic Mike" themed activities tone the plans down to suit her style regardless of what the other girls in the group would rather do.

There will be a wealth of opinions from the women attending the bachelorette festivities and you will be bombarded by ideas and even complaints. Put your foot down early and remind everyone that what works for the bride will work for the group. The ladies can decide whether or not they want to participate and if they commit they should expect to go with the flow (this is of course easier said than done, but stay hopeful).

Although your ultimate goal is to please your bride, if her choices (or demands in some cases) are outlandish you will have to make accommodations for your group. Jet-setting to Las Vegas or Miami for a wild weekend is not necessarily a reality for everyone. The expense of the party is of course split amongst all participating but the costs do add up quickly and some cannot afford as much as others. No one should feel burdened by this fun event.

When it comes to financing this shindig, don't be surprised by flakey ladies. If possible, request payment from each person prior to the event. This is much easier if you find pre-arranged packaged events. Whether you stay local or travel, there are great bachelorette event packages for just about any destination. With that said, if flying to your destination, it's wise to let each person make her own travel arrangements; you didn't sign up to be a travel agent.

The bachelorette party night or weekend is a great way to celebrate your bride and allow her to let her hair down a bit before the wedding festivities get hectic. It's also a way for all the ladies in the bridal party and involved in the wedding to get to know each other. With thoughtful planning your bride will have a fantastic time without too many embarrassing stories!

Below are some ideas for your bachelorette party planning:

*For a more tame celebration (e.g. not Vegas):
• plan a spa getaway and spoil your bride then lounge poolside
• plan a perfume party to design a one-of-a-kind scent for the wedding day
• take your bride to see her favorite music group

*For a budget-conscious adventure:
• schedule an event package for a day of wine tasting and a nice lunch
• book a limo/night club group package in a city near you

*Feeling a little wild?:

• book a pole dancing class for your group (look for fitness studios, not actual strip clubs)
• the classic male review (note, I said classic, not classy)
• plan a bachelorette scavenger hunt full of hilarious tasks for your bride