With Valentine’s Day sparking an annual wave of proposals, wedding season isn’t far
behind! That’s when the bride and bridegroom tribes need to step up to their most important
pre-wedding duty: planning the ultimate bachelor and bachelorette celebrations. If you’ve
been tapped as the party planner-in-chief, First Group’s Managing Director, Shaun Lamont,
shares some tips to help make your bestie last single bash one to remember.
“Bachelor(ette) parties, like everything else, are evolving,” says Lamont. "Today, more
people are swapping the traditional night out for well-planned weekend getaways that offer
better value and additional fun experiences.” It’s a trend that Hollywood has long played
with – think The Hangover and Best Night Ever, where destination weekends turn into
chaotic adventures. But while those films lean into disaster, real-life bachelor(ette)
getaways are all about prolonging the fun, making lasting magical memories, and
(hopefully) delivering fewer surprises."
Lamont believes that resort destinations are the ideal choice, offering the perfect blend of
fun and convenience. “With everything in one place and within walking distance, there’s no
need for designated drivers or the hassle of coordinating complicated logistics,” he says.
“And, the unmatched convenience of having restaurants, bars, entertainment, and activities
on your doorstep ensures a seamless, stress-free experience. This allows everyone to fully
relax and enjoy quality time together as they celebrate the prospective bride or groom for a
weekend, not just an evening.”
“Resorts also offer private self-catering options such as chalets, providing the perfect mix of
privacy and sociability”, adds Lamont. “They’re a budget-friendly option as guests have the
flexibility to bring their own food and drinks. This means they can prepare some meals and
enjoy casual braais while spending quality time together, without the expense of dining out
all the time”.
He notes that First Group’s properties – like Magalies Park in the North West and Midlands
Saddle & Trout in KZN, which both offer self-catering chalets and excellent amenities – have
seen a significant rise in bachelor(ette) weekend bookings. Think lazy afternoons by the
pool, friendly round-robin padel or tennis tournaments, spa treatments, golf, horse riding,
and more. “With built-in entertainment that requires minimal planning, resorts offer an
effortless yet indulgent choice to suit either group,” Lamont continues. “It’s also the perfect
opportunity for the bride- or groom-to-be to unwind and take a breather from all the planning
before the big day.”
And if you want a hassle-free experience for the main event, certain resorts in First Group’s
portfolio have staff skilled in arranging group celebrations – from welcome drinks by the pool
to exclusive use of facilities such as private dining rooms. Adding a few personal touches
such as decorations, memory keepsakes or even a ‘surprise’ during the event, will elevate
the experience even further, making for an unforgettable bachelor(ette) party.
Getting the most out of a pre-wedding getaway requires strategic planning. Lamont offers a
few tips for those wanting a celebratory destination weekend:
✔ Book during shoulder season (March-May or September-November) for better rates
and great weather. Some resorts also offer group booking discounts for parties of eight or
more.
✔ Create a shared digital payment pool three to six months in advance, allowing guests
to contribute gradually.
✔ Opt for self-catering resorts to reduce food and beverage costs.
✔ Choose venues with complimentary activities if you are on a tight budget.
✔ Consider mid-week getaways if possible for better rates and availability.
✔ Many resorts offer early-bird discounts leading to significant savings and ensuring
you get your first choice of venue.
“A well-planned bachelor(ette) getaway with the right mix of fun and relaxation isn't just a
celebration. It's creating memories the guest of honour will cherish forever and becoming a
legendary weekend that will become part of your collective story. It may even turn out to be
the epic yardstick for all the group’s future adventures," Lamont concludes.
For more information about First Group resorts, visit https://www.firstgroup-sa.co.za
ENDS
WORD COUNT: 661
Press Release Disseminated on Behalf of:
Shaun Lamont
Managing Director of First Group Hotels and Resorts
Disseminated by:
Thulisile Mhlongo
PR Account Executive: Say Watt
074 836 9170