When did these things become so intense? Like, I get wanting to celebrate your friend getting married, but when did it turn into needing a vacation day just to recover from the "fun"?
If you've got a chronic illness, or you're planning something for someone who does, you've probably already realized that the whole multi-day, flight-required, drink-until-3am thing just... doesn't work. And that's totally fine. Actually, it's more than fine, it might be better.
Going Back to Basics (And Why That's Not Boring)
Bachelor and bachelorette parties used to be way simpler. Like, a night out with friends. That was it. No coordinating Airbnbs. No group chats that go on for months. No arguing over budgets. Just a few hours celebrating someone you care about.
For a lot of us, that sounds way more doable. And honestly? Way more enjoyable. There's something nice about knowing you can go home to your own bed at the end of the night.
Some Ideas That Won't Destroy You
Just Go to Dinner
Find a place with actual comfortable chairs, make a reservation for like 6 or 7pm, order food you actually want to eat, and just hang out. No bar hopping. No "where should we go next?" Just dinner with people you like.
The Food Crawl (But Slower)
Do a crawl, but with pizza or dessert. Hit two or three walkable spots. Eat good food. Talk. Move at your own pace. Skip the shots.
Movie Night (But Fancier)
Get tickets somewhere with reclining seats. See something good. Have dinner before or after. Done by 10pm. Easy. Still feels like an event.
Make Something Together
Pottery painting is great. You sit the whole time. You talk while working. It’s creative without being draining. Plus you leave with a keepsake.
Coffee/Tea Hangout
Pick a cozy spot. Make it clear it’s just a couple of hours. Order something warm. Catch up. Leave when you’re ready, guilt-free.
What If You Actually Want More Than One Night Though?
Sometimes you do want a full weekend. Maybe your health allows it. Maybe you’re just feeling up to it. That’s valid, it just doesn’t need to look like everyone else’s trip.
For Bachelorette Weekends:
Stay Local and Keep It Simple
Use someone’s house. Stock snacks. Watch movies. Go out if you feel like it but no pressure either way.
Go Somewhere Specifically to Relax
A spa getaway. Do treatments or don’t. Rest is the whole point. No one’s keeping score. It can be an hour away, not a flight.
Do Art Stuff
Painting, scrapbooking—whatever sounds fun. Bring supplies, take breaks, enjoy creating together.
Nature, But Make It Easy
Pick a spot that’s all about the view. Maybe one easy outing per day. Mostly just enjoy the peace and quiet.
Make It All About the Food
Cook together. Order delivery. Hire a chef if you want. Let the weekend revolve around meals and time together.
For Bachelor Weekends:
The Cabin Approach
Rent a place with a grill and fire pit. Bring games. Watch sports. Cook burgers. That’s it. That’s the weekend.
Sports Marathon at Someone's House
Park on the couch and watch all the games. Order different food each meal. Argue about plays. Fall asleep mid-game.
Outdoor Stuff (Gentle Version)
Pick a place with good views. Do a scenic drive. Maybe a short walk if it feels right. Nothing intense.
Learn to Make Something
Grilling. Brewing. Doesn’t matter. Something hands-on that allows for sitting and breaks.
The "Basically Just Hanging Out" Weekend
Stay close to home. Do one activity per day—maybe. Sleep in. Eat good food. Keep it low-key.
The Thing Nobody Says Out Loud
You don’t owe anyone the traditional, wild party. Skipping the drinking? Fine. Making it shorter? Also fine. Staying nearby? Totally fine.
Your health matters. Planning around it isn’t weak, it’s wise. And honestly? Most people are relieved when someone finally says it out loud.
The Actual Point of All This
This is about celebrating someone you love. And if you’re too wiped out to enjoy it, it defeats the purpose.
So keep it simple. Keep it manageable. Keep it real.
Your friends will still have fun. The person getting married will feel loved. And you might actually enjoy yourself too.
That’s the real win.
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