Got a sports lover on your hands? Surprise the bride or groom with a game-themed bachelor or bachelorette party. Whether you’re paying tribute to her favorite team or honoring his love of beer and Cracker Jack, a prewedding sports bash will get everyone revved up for the main event.
1. Pick the Right Venue
No surprise here: The main ingredient to any sports-themed event is location, location, location. Rent a box at the ballpark or reserve a tee time at her favorite golf course. If you’re buying tickets, book well in advance -- certain events sell out quickly. On a budget? Party it up at his favorite sports bar or get in the game with a girls-only softball tournament.
2. Look the Part
Have special “groom,” “best man,” and “groomsman” jerseys, caps, or even sneakers made so everyone knows who’s who in your group. For the sporty bride, attach some white tulle to a cap or visor for a game-ready veil.
3. Plan the Menu
Pizza, popcorn, and frosty mugs of beer will boost everyone’s team spirit -- even if the closest you’re getting to the players is through HDTV. For a tennis lover, turn a patio into her personal country club with Waldorf salads, mint juleps, and tiramisu.
4. Spread the Excitement
Most major stadiums will flash personal messages on their scoreboards. If you spend the day at the ballpark, give the bride or groom a special shout-out to let the crowd in on the fun.
5. Travel in Style
Make her feel like an all-star by renting a team bus to charter your group around for the evening. You’ll also score bonus points for having a comfortable place for everyone to crash after the ninth inning of celebratory shots.
6. Finish Big
What’s a party without favors? Buy the groom a ball signed by his favorite player or a flask engraved with his team’s logo. He’ll appreciate the gesture and will have a keepsake to remind him of his bachelor party down the road. Treat the bride to bright-colored tennis shoes to change into for the reception, or surprise her with a garter in her favorite team’s colors.
-- Justine Lorelle Blanchard