Bored with the usual bridal shower? Take fun up a notch by throwing a bachelorette party instead. Every modern, fun-loving bride-to-be could use a little craziness, sinful food, and good old-fashioned girl bonding before she finally ties the knot.

Enlist the help of several friends when planning the bash, because the preparations for a bachelorette party can be quite overwhelming. Once you have formed your team (three to four close friends will do), agree on a theme, a date, and a working budget.

The theme of the bachelorette party should depend on the personality of the bride-to-be. Is she the conservative, traditional type? Then she might enjoy a quiet evening with close girlfriends. Is she outgoing and adventurous? Then hire a male stripper just to make her blush. Remember that the list of bachelorette party ideas is endless. Whether you choose to have a simple dinner at someone's house or a wild time at a hip club, the goal is to have fun look back at the old times, laugh out loud, and be goofy, giggly girls all over again.

Timing is everything. Never make the mistake of scheduling the bachelorette party before the wedding day itself this is usually the same night reserved for a rehearsal dinner. Besides, drinking can give the bride a hangover the last thing she needs! It is best to have the bash a week before the big day, or at least three days before. If the wedding is going to be held out of town, you should schedule the party even earlier. A day or two before she leaves is the perfect timing.

Dont spend a fortune. Fun does not have to come with a big price tag. You can keep costs low by holding the party at a friends house and doing the decorations yourself. If you are renting a bar or restaurant, ask for party packages and discounts on liquor and food. It is also a good idea to ask everyone attending for contributions (most people usually give $30 to about $250). The bride-to-be should never have to pay for anything after all, this is your gift to her. Solicit until you raise enough money, or cut down on unnecessary expenses (like a limo and driver) to stretch the budget.