Say what you will about TikTok, but it has revolutionized the book industry. Thanks to #BookTok, more people are falling in love with reading — and book sales are thriving because of it. If you’re in charge of planning a final hurrah for the bibliophile bride in your life, a bookish bachelorette is the only way to celebrate her next chapter.
Here’s our ultimate guide for planning a bachelorette party that your book loving bride won’t soon forget.
For the Romance Reader
Celebrate the hopeless romantic in your life with a bachelorette party inspired by her favorite period pieces. Channel your inner Lady Whistledown with invitations that read like scandalous society papers — custom-made wax seals and all. Use this sample itinerary to plan your weekend.
Friday: Kick things off with a Pride, Prejudice, and Pajamas party. Invite guests to arrive in their comfy clothes and watch the 2005 adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel. Want to turn it up a notch? Invent a drinking game for key moments in the film.
Saturday: Take it back to the 19th century with Regency era activities like calligraphy or dancing. Search for nearby classes or scour YouTube for instructional (and free!) videos to play from home.
Sunday: Instead of a boozy brunch, plan a tea party. Book a table at your local tea room or throw your own tea party complete with scones and cucumber sandwiches for a budget-friendly bachelorette.
For the Fantasy Fan
Between Fourth Wing and A Court of Thorn and Roses, fantasy books are having their moment — and we’re here for it. Use this itinerary for a “faerie” tale weekend full of mischief and magic.
Friday: Go out for drinks at a nearby book bar (yes, they exist!) or make your own literary libations at home. Think Dragon Fruit Margaritas, violet-colored Aviations, or curated cocktails that represent the seven courts.
Saturday: During the day, try your hand at potion making with a mixology, perfume, or candle making class. At night, ask guests to dress up as their favorite fantasy character and play interactive games like Fishbowl or Headbands based on everyone’s costume.
Sunday: Learn how to fly with an aerial yoga or bungee fitness class. These classes might look intimidating, but we guarantee you’ll have a blast!
For the Mystery Maven
If your bride-to-be is an amateur Agatha Christie, plan a weekend of sleuthing and surprises for everyone to enjoy:
Friday: Host a murder mystery dinner party and invite guests to arrive in character. The more outrageous, the better!
Saturday: Lean into your bride’s main character energy with a choose your own adventure day. Ahead of time, plan a series of activities for the day with options for each (like “go out for breakfast” or “make pancakes at home”). As the day progresses, let the bride choose her preferred activity for a day of twists and turns she’ll cherish forever.
Sunday: Wrap up the weekend with a blind date with a book exchange. Invite each guest to bring a copy of their favorite book with strict instructions to wrap it up before arrival. Write key themes or plot points on the wrapping that explain what the book is about without spoiling it. Let everyone choose one book to take home as a mystery memento from your weekend together.
Planning a Bookish Bachelorette
Just like any classic novel, you need to set the scene for a bachelorette party. If budget allows, host the bachelorette at a themed venue like The Bookhouse at Faunbrook or a cozy cabin. If a staycation is more your vibe, decorate your space with timeless quotes and cheeky phrases like “Same Dragon Forever.”
These thoughtful details will take your bookish bachelorette party to the next level and make your bride feel well-loved (just like her favorite novel). Cheers to the next chapter!
Rachel Kauffman is a Detroit-based content writer, bookworm, and cat mom to two feisty felines.
