Jack and Jill Parties

Jack and Jill Parties are a mix between a Stag Party and a Bridal Shower. It is usually held with friends and family of the bride and groom 2 months - 2 weeks before the wedding. Unlike some showers or bachelor(ette) parties, this isn't a surprise and the bride and groom are usually involved in the planning, yet some couples go out for their bachelor(ette) parties after the other guests go home. These parties can mimic a stag, by purchasing a "ticket" that gets you food, drinks and door prizes, OR they can mimic a shower in that guests bring gifts for the bride/groom. Below are a few ideas for themes, gifts and more !

Gift Alternatives
Instead of guests bringing gifts that they bride/groom may not need or want, there are plenty of other options! For example, raffle tickets can be sold per guest with baskets, prizes, trips, etc. that they can win and that money raised goes to the couple to put towards their honeymoon or wedding expenses. Another option is to have each guest bring their favorite bottle of alcohol to be used at the reception. This provides an "open bar" instead of cash bar at the wedding saving both the guests and couple money. If the couple would rather gifts instead of money or alcohol, they could assign each attendee a room in the couples house (or soon-to-be-house) in which they are responsible for buying a gift off of the registry that applies. This works especially for the couples who have just moved in together or are about to.

Themes
Many Jack and Jill Parties are themed to go along with prizes given away or gifts to be offered to the couple. Casino nights, sports tournaments or a mutual interest the bride and groom share are some great ideas. For casino night, guests pay a certain amount at the door and are given chips to play at various gambling stations throughout the night. The winner gets a prize basket and the money raised goes to the bride and groom. A sports tournament theme is a similar concept, except with small sports games the guests can play (this is great if children are invited).

Where to Party
Many couples simply have this in their backyard (or relatives if they don't live together yet). Because this is a casual setting, big venues and caterers aren't used often. Picnic and BBQ style parties are also very popular and don't burn a hole in the couple's pocket. Some, however, rent out a local hall, which is affordable and within decent traveling time.

What to Eat
Like I said before, picnic and BBQ style is very common so grilling and finger foods are a great way to stick with that theme, also saving you money. Some couples have also hosted a potluck where guests are allocated a certain food or dessert to bring to the party. Caterers aren't used very often, unless the guest list gets too large for the hosts to enjoy their family and friends.

Have you ever been to a Jack and Jill Party ?? If so, comment below with your experience !