<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 something to be 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> A more traditional alternative is the bridesmaids luncheon, hosted by friends of the bride's mother or mothers of the bridesmaids, usually give the day before the wedding . Attendees include the bridesmaids, their mothers and close female friends and relatives; the event is often multi-generational including mothers and even grandmothers of the bride and groom . At a bridesmaids luncheon, the bride often presents a small gift to each bridesmaid . The purpose of the luncheon is for the bride to thank her attendants and includes presenting them with bridesmaid gifts . It is also when the bridesmaids' gift is customarily given to the bride . If there is a cake, it frequently contains good luck charms . </P>

When do you typically have a bachelorette party