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So you’ve been charged with planning a bachelorette party. Whether you’re the blushing bride or her most trusted organizer (read: party animal), it’s a big job. There tends to be a lot of pressure to do it right. From the destination and accommodations, to the playlist and snacks—you’ve got to bring your A-game. One misstep, and the bridal squad might give you the stink eye. Unless you’re the bride, in which case they have no right.
Let’s start with the first step: choosing a theme. One of the most popular themes right now is disco-cowgirl. Think: Spacey Kacey; think: Abba meets Nashville. If the ideal weekend for your girl gang consists of glittery eyeshadow, cowboy boots, and karaoke—well, this is the theme for you. As a bonus, photo ops will be plentiful.
We can’t do much to help you with the guest list, budgeting, scheduling, or location. (You can, however, check out all our travel guides and recommendations by reading our ELLE Escapes column.) What we can do is provide inspo for all the fun stuff. Outfits, activities, décor, you get it. Here is your definitive guide to throwing the perfect space cowgirl bachelorette party.
The ‘Fit
The number one priority of any bachelorette party is to have fun. But showing off cute outfits is a very close second. For this theme, you can really go all out. We’re talking rhinestone hats, heeled boots (maybe even spurs?!), cow-print anything. Feel like going out in a pink feather boa? Sure, why not. This is your disco cowgirl era, we’re just living in it.
The Fun Stuff
You didn’t think we’d leave out accessories, did you? Fun and on-theme add-ons are crucial components to your packing list. Especially if you aren’t into crazy outfits, you can still subtly channel the theme with things like disco ball earrings or a cowboy hat.
The Décor
This is a no-brainer. Embrace sparkly backdrops, disco balls, and Kacey Musgraves on full blast. Alexa, please play “Space Cowboy.”
The Activities
Besides drinking games (hi, duh), there are tons of group activities that are sure to get the bride excited for her big day. If you’re somewhere rural, consider horseback riding. If you’re in a big city, why not take a bingo card on a night out in the name of spontaneity?
The Favors
Goodie bags are a great way for the bachelorette party host to show appreciation for the squad coming out to celebrate. Whether big or small, thanking guests with party favors is the perfect way to cap off a memorable weekend.
Meg Donohue is the Associate Fashion Commerce Editor at ELLE.com. Her passions include spicy foods, sustainability, and the Y2K remake of Charlie’s Angels. She will never stop hoping for a One Direction reunion tour.
Rose is a Senior Editor at ELLE overseeing features and projects about women’s issues. She is an accomplished and compassionate storyteller and editor who excels in obtaining exclusive interviews and unearthing compelling features.