6 Wellness Hens Party Ideas to Help Chill Out Your Bride-To-Be

Feeling pre-wedding jitters as the big day draws nearer? You need some hen party ideas that will help you embrace self-care and find a little well-being break for your mind. 

Finding relaxing and fun group activities that please everyone can be tricky. Whether you’re a soon-to-be bride trying to find ways to unwind with her closest group of friends, or you’re a dutiful maid-of-honour trying to plan the perfect day for her bestie, balancing everyone’s interests and schedules can almost be as stressful as the wedding itself! Have no fear. When it comes to our curated range of alternative hen do activities, you can be sure that your day of bonding will be special and soothing all at the same time. There really is something for everyone, from creative London workshops that help you slow down to refreshing Edinburgh activities and restorative days out in Manchester.

If you’re on the hunt for a bit of inspiration, then this list is exactly what you need. Take a look at these craft classes, mindful workshops and wellness experiences that will make you breathe a sigh of relief.

1. Customize a serene DIY candle using soy wax   

Learn how to make soy candles with your besties for an eco-friendly and low-key hen party idea. A lovely scented candle is a great way to make bathtime a full-sensory experience, so why not make one yourself? The best part is that soy wax is so much better than typical paraffin-based candles from the store because it is much cleaner for your lungs and the planet. So by making your own candles, not only do you get a soothing light to bring atmosphere to your home, but you’re also making a sustainable swap!

In this sweet-smelling craft class, your host — an experienced local crafter —  will have all the candle making supplies you need. That means less hassle on your end, and you still get a well-thought-out hen do activity to treat your favourite girls.

2. Make your own soap and skincare for nourished skin  

Stress doesn’t always stay inside: it can make itself known on our skin too. So if organising seating charts and vendors has taken its toll, pampering sessions make for great hen party ideas for small groups. A facial and massage is a great way to go, but making your own products is even more indulgent. You can make it all, from facial creams to body scrubs, moisturising butters, and even organic soap! The best part is you get to have fun experimenting with different ingredients as you spend quality time with your dearest friends.

You’ll be guided by a friendly teacher who has all the best tips and tricks on how to make soap that soothes the skin, leaving it fresh and smooth. By making DIY skincare in a beauty workshop or at home in an online class, you can be sure all the products you add are toxic-free and skin-loving. It’s a great way to make every shower and bath feel extra special.

3. Dive into self-care in a meditation and yoga class  

When it comes to finding mindful activities everyone can join in with, yoga is an all-time classic, but you may not have considered it as an option for your hen party activities in London. Take care of your mind, body and soul before the big day with breathing techniques, stretches, and calming practices in a tranquil class. You’ll have a go at some yoga for beginners poses that will help you on your mindfulness journey as you connect with your body and find balance. 

Wherever you are in the UK, there are local experts who can’t wait to take you through an hour or two of peaceful meditation for a truly relaxing hen party. If heading to a studio doesn’t work for you and your group of gals, you can even try an online class. This works well for hen groups that are spread around the country and might find getting all in one place too hard. Stay connected socially, all while pampering your mind, body and soul.

Is the bride-to-be a flower lover? Click here to explore more options!

4. Get elbows deep in cooling clay with a pottery class   

If meditation and controlled breathing doesn’t sound like it would help you relax, then pottery making is a great alternative for busting stress. As your hands glide over the smooth clay, you will engage all your senses for rewarding results. Not only do you come away with a refreshed mind, but you also get a piece of DIY home decor that will remind you of all the wonderful memories you and your favourite girls had.

From wheel-throwing to ceramic painting, hand-building and more, there are so many clay-ful activities to inspire your creative side. Enjoy a meaningful break from stress to focus on the present moment as you mould your clay into a useful mug, an incredible vase, or a beautiful sculpture.

5. Try a tea tasting experience for a unique way to unwind  

Drink in the mindful benefits of me-time as you sip on some chai, matcha, or chamomile tea. From Edinburgh to Cardiff and Dublin to London, there’s one thing that unites all Brits, and that is our love for tea. So, it’s hard to go wrong with a fun day out enjoying a tea ceremony and tasting experience.

You will learn a bit more about the nations favourite drink and how to make tea with a well-being twist. Tea isn’t all about the drink itself but the activity around it and using those few minutes to reflect on your thoughts and enjoy a slice of peace on the side. This is perfect for hen party ideas at home using tea DIY kits and virtual experiences. All the fun of meeting up in person with none of the stress of planning!

6. Try perfume making and find your unique scent  

Aromatherapy has shown to have many benefits, from improving sleep, banishing those pesky headaches and easing your stress. So if you want hen do ideas with wellness and classy twist, you should all get together to learn how to make perfume. You and your besties will first get to explore different individual smells and how they layer on top of each other before formulating a customised fragrance that pleases your nose. Once you have your bespoke DIY perfume, you could wear it on your wedding day as a special memento for this beautiful occasion. 

Using botanicals, essential oils, and flowers to create perfume, you will also be basking in all the therapeutic benefits they possess. It’s a great way to use alternative methods to balance your stress levels. Try something new and come away with meaningful memories you can enjoy with every spritz.