From wine tasting just off the Kings Road to bathing in ancient thermal waters at Aire or crafting exquisite flower arrangements with Lavender Green – this year is all about celebrating with moments that resonate, and all about crafting memories to last a lifetime.
Chic Hen Do Ideas
Bathe in the Aire Ancient Baths, London
Hen’s who are weary of the whitewashed, clinical spa experiences, there is an old-world antidote on a side street Embankment there are the Aire Ancient Baths – bringing a time-honored bathing-beauty culture.
The Aire Ancient Baths are found beneath an 18th-century in a Townhouse that feels filled with history. The building was once home to J.M Barrie, who lived there while writing Peter Pan (and you’ll even find a pristine first-edition hardback in the reception!) Near the Embankment this underground space was originally built as wharfs where boats transporting goods up the river could unload.
Entirely lit by candles and technology-free (phones are handed in on arrival), Aire offers a total disconnect from the outside world to reconnect with the group of girls you are with. This is a place where you and your hens will go and feel reborn, or at least rigorously rejuvenated from head to toe in the pleasantest of ways, while spending quality (and quietly) soaking in the time with your group.
The spa is arranged around a series of pools inspired by the varying temperatures you might find in a Roman bath: the tepidarium (warm bath), caldarium (hot bath), frigidarium (cold bath), plus a steam room and a ‘flotarium’ or salt water bath. Inspired by the Roman, Greek and Ottoman bathing rituals dating as far back as the first century, Aire Ancient Baths’ goal is to recreate the traditional ritual of body and mind rejuvenation through water.
From start to finish, your experience is guided by the discreet staff, who will introduce you to the various thermal experiences with precious downtime, a unique wellness experience and probably a glass of something bubbly. Thermal waters, talented therapists and a hidden location steeped in its own stories combine to create one of the city’s most unique spas
Aire Ancient Baths, 2-3 Robert Street, WC2N 6BH
Go candle-making with Bableit
Chic candle making is breathing new life into the hen category giving you not only a fun day out but are the perfect keep-sake whether you’re throwing the grandest hen party of the season or hosting an intimate affair. Add style and glamour to your hen with these chic Bablit candle-making courses. Bianca, by Bianca, an ex-primary school teacher turned candle painting whiz is the owner and founder of Bablit is the most charming west london hostess and will give you and your gang easy-to-follow steps whilst getting those creative juices flowing. You will be shown how to paint your own beautifully unique tapered dinner candles, perfect for treasured keepsakes. Not only will you explore lots of styles, colours and techniques – she’ll also be sharing all her tips and tricks for painting the perfect candle!
You’ll find in no time your Bableit candles will be designed mostly for visual enjoyment – whether as part of a tablescape or ornaments to take home in their own right in your home to keep afterwards – you will melt when you snip the wick, watch the flame flicker and be transported by the prettiest little creation (and scent!)
For more details contact Bianca or follow her on instagram here
Wine tasting at Amie in Belgravia
Indulge in an unforgettable experience on your hen do with a wine-tasting adventure that promises lots of laughter, camaraderie, and a touch of sophistication with amie in their charming shop in West London. Picture this: a charming shop nestled in the heart of heart of Belgravia. With each sip, you and your closest friends embark on a journey through the nuanced flavors and aromas of their exquisite wines.
Guided by their knowledgeable staff, you’ll learn the art of swirling, sniffing, and savoring, turning each taste into a delightful exploration. The air is filled with giggles and exclamations as you decipher the hints of berries, and the dance of tannins. Share your impressions, compare notes, and discover hidden gems among the bottles. It’s certainly is the perfect way to have a celebration of friendship, a toast to the bride-to-be, and an ode to the finer things in life. So, raise your glasses, clink to happiness, cheers to love, laughter, and the exquisite world of amie wine!
Based in Belgravia, London., amie wine studio can be reserved for group bookings, or the entire space can be rented out for a private party. For private parties, outside catering and activities are allowed to be brought into the space. Group wine tastings are available upon request for both group bookings and private parties – enquire by emailing [email protected].
Macarons & martinis at London’s Oh La La!
When it comes to crafting unforgettable hen party experiences, London’s Oh La La! has truly raised the bar. By seamlessly blending the art of macaron-making with the finesse of martini shaking, they’ve created an event that promises to delight hens of all tastes. Nestled in the heart of Central London, the Oh La La! studio exudes an airy sophistication that sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration. Every facet of the experience, from the ambiance to the beverages, can be tailored to shine the spotlight on the bride, ensuring she feels truly cherished. For those who appreciate the art of mixology, unlimited martinis flow freely. Meanwhile, those with a penchant for non-alcoholic options will find themselves enchanted by an array of tantalizing mocktails. “Our goal is to create lasting memories for every participant, regardless of their preferences,” shares the passionate team at Oh La La! This workshop offers a unique fusion of macaron craftsmanship and mixology mastery. Attendees are invited to immerse themselves in the delicate process of macaron creation and the fine art of mixology. The result? Boxes of exquisitely hand-decorated macarons, ready to be shared and savored with loved ones.
For the discerning Maid of Honour seeking an event that seamlessly marries sophistication, fun, and inclusivity go to: https://ohlalamacarons.com/ Location: Oh La La! Macarons, 5 Kirby Street, London, EC1N 8TS – or they can bring the experience to you. Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes Price: Starting from £80 per head, inclusive of unlimited cocktails, macarons, and a gift box of macarons to take home.
Flower arranging at Lavender Green
Ahhh – the enchanting world of flower making on a hen do. Picture this: Lavender Green Flowers’ Tables adorned with an array of colorful blooms and delicate petals await the eager hands of chic ladies ready to not only learn a new skill but find that with each delicate movement, creativity blossoms.Its just so romantic – the gentle rustling of tissue paper and the precise folding of petals evoke a sense of calm and satisfaction. As the flowers take shape, a bouquet of shared memories germinates, binding you and your gaggle closer together.
The art of flower making on a hen do goes beyond just crafting beautiful floral arrangements. It becomes an opportunity for each of you to learn about their unique style and creativity too. Not only is flower making a delightful and engaging activity, but it also doubles as a keepsake for the bride-to-be. The aim at Lavendar Green is to teach visitors how to create a design using sustainable materials, using an array of the most gorgeous, highest-graded, seasonal only ingredients, to teach you all the steps you need to know on how to make a beautiful, sustainable foam free flower composition.
Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, flower-making at Lavender Green on a hen do adds a touch of elegance and charm to the big day celebrations and sets the tone of what is to come. It’s no wonder that this activity has become a popular choice among brides and their entourage. So gather your petals and let your creativity bloom as you embark on a memorable journey of friendship and joy.
Tickets for Lavender Green Masterclasses are limited, with intimate class sizes of up to 10. To book your place head to Lavender Green Flowers, 239 King’s Road, SW3 5EJ.
Biscuit making and baking at Biscuiteers
Embark on a delightful biscuit-making adventure during your hen do with Biscuiteers – where flour-covered hands and infectious laughter blend into a perfect symphony of joy. Imagine a cozy kitchen filled with the sweet scent of butter and vanilla, as you and your closest companions gather around to create delectable treats.
From classic buttery shortbreads to playful, intricately decorated cookies, each creation is a canvas for your collective creativity. As the biscuits arrive baked to golden perfection, engage in friendly competitions for the most imaginative designs or the perfectly uniform shapes. The air is filled with little moments of delight as you watch your creations transform into edible works of art. While the cookies cool, take a moment to savor freshly brewed tea or indulge in a glass of bubbly, relishing the fruits of your labour – decorating with an array of colorful icings, sprinkles, and edible glitter.
The beauty of a biscuit-designing hen do lies not only in the delicious end result, but also in the shared experience of creating something wonderful together. It’s a celebration of friendship, a toast to the bride-to-be, and a testament to the magic that happens when hearts and hands come together in the kitchen. As part of hen party celebrations, book a group icing masterclass at one of Biscuiteers’ Icing Cafes in Belgravia or Notting Hill, where you and the rest of your hens can learn hand-icing from the experts at the Ministry of Biscuits.
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