<P> This party is typically hosted by one or more members of the wedding party, although it is possible for any friend to host a party in honor of the bride - to - be . Formally, a party in honor of the bride - to - be is never hosted by the bride - to - be, although she may participate in its planning . While it is normally the duty of a hostess to pay for the entertainment she gives her guests, it is common in most English - speaking countries for participants to share the costs of this event . Whether the bride - to - be pays her share, or whether her share is divided between other participants is determined by the organizers and the bride - to - be during the early stages of the planning process . </P> <P> Participating in a bachelorette party is always optional, and many brides decline these parties altogether . Neither bridesmaids nor other friends can be required either to attend or to pay for any part of this party . </P> <P> Since it is derived from a formal dinner, a bachelorette party is properly held in the evening, usually about a week (or at least a few days) before the wedding, and usually includes dinner, although alternative approaches are not uncommon . </P> <P> In the early 21st century, some bachelorette parties rivaled the drunkenness seen in Hollywood portrayals of bachelor parties . </P>

When do you go on a bachelorette party