The ‘Zen Do’: celebrate your 2019 Hen like the A-list



Sarah Chapman, Head of Hen, Stag & Sten at group travel expert Red7 explains how to create a celeb-inspired, on-trend ‘Zen Do’ that’s all about self-care and relaxation.

It’s official – celebs and the public alike have had enough of Hen Dos that result in memory loss, disturbing flashbacks and waking up curled around a doner kebab. Tacky is out. Healthier, more sophisticated hen dos are on trend for 2019.



The Zen Do is all about celebrating your nuptials with self-care and luxurious activities that leave you and your hens feeling fantastic – and you can make it completely your own.

The trend has been championed by celebrities from Kate Middleton to Lilly Allen, who have opted for more private, elegant and indulgent affairs ahead of their weddings.

Popular activities for rich and famous brides-to-be include yoga classes, lounging on a private beach or by the pool, heading to a villa or chalet and taking private cookery classes from top chefs.

“Wait!” we hear you cry, “What about alcohol?”

Never fear – drink is still allowed on a ‘Zen Do’. In fact, cocktail making classes or wine tastings are perfect activities.

Our recommendations for 2019 Zen Dos include sophisticated destinations ideal for relaxing, but there’s never too far to wander if you decide you’d like a girl’s night out after all!




Ibiza Zen Do ... (Like Chloe Madeley)


Wellbeing guru Chloe is credited with starting the Zen Do trend, after creating some serious Insta-envy when she jetted off to a gorgeous villa in Ibiza this July. Chloe spent her hen chilling by a private pool, upping her yoga game and cooking with her friends.

Ibiza may be known for its legendary clubbing scene, but it has been a relaxation destination for years thanks to its beautiful beaches, incredible scenery and great restaurants.

We recommend heading to the gorgeous Villa Aquatic to stealing Chloe’s zen style. Set on a 3.5-acre estate, this luxe mansion boasts a huge illuminated pool, a jacuzzi, a fountain, sun terraces and even a cinema room. Take a private Yoga or Pilates class, then spend the rest of the day chilling by the pool before a cocktail masterclass or perhaps the arrival of a private chef to teach you how to make and plate food like a pro.

 
Alpine Zen Do (like The Duchess of Cambridge)


Before her wedding, the effortlessly chic Kate Middleton headed to a secluded chalet in the Alps for her ‘Zen Do’. Only the most trusted members of her inner circle attended and the details of the trip were strictly guarded. Kate famously avoids alcohol, so it was hardly a surprise that we didn’t see paparazzi snaps of the Duchess-to-be out on the town!

A trip to the Alps is all about breath-taking scenery and high-end hospitality – plus skiing, of course. And instructors in the region are well-versed in leading beginners down the slopes.

We recommend Val d’Isère for emulating Kate’s Zen Do, a charming and sophisticated mountain village in the French Alps. Linked to nearby Tignes, we love Val d’Isère for its VIP vibe and Champagne lifestyle.

London Zen Do (like Lily Allen)

London is a real favourite with brides-to-be. Lily opted to stay in the UK for her 2011 Zen Hen, keeping in line with her new health-conscious lifestyle. The singer had a private cookery class at The Savoy led by top chef Gordon Ramsay which was followed by a sumptuous sit-down meal. Lily dressed down but gave a nod to classic Hen tradition with a tiara and veil.

London is truly a world-class city and we have created some fabulous Hens in our capital. We love trying out the most indulgent cookery experiences like chocolatier masterclasses, pizza making and cocktail making. Wine or artisan gin tastings are a fantastic excuse for a sophisticated tipple. Pair it all with a fab 5-star hotel in the city, complete with a spa, and you’ll have a 2019 Zen Do to remember.

A Cancún, Mexico Zen Do (like Christina Aguilera)


The Genie in a Bottle singer whisked her besties off to a luxury resort in Mexico where she lounged by the pool in a cute tiara and enjoyed some pampering in the spa. Despite the zen feel, Christina was spotted partying with her bride squad until the early hours.

Cancún ticks all the boxes as the ultimate destination for a sun-soaked Mexican Zen Do and is known for its glamour, glitz and pure white beaches. If you do want to add a night out to your Zen Do experience, there’s also an iconic party scene. To reach ultimate levels of zen in Cancún, you can book a swimming with dolphins experience and explore ancient Maya ruins and lagoons.

 
2019 Trends! Where will the rich and famous head for their zen hens?


The Zen Do trend resonates with us on so many levels, so we know it’s here to stay! Here at Red7 we’re predicting that the exclusive Obonjan Island, off Croatia’s famous Dalmatian coastline will be the hottest place to celebrate for summer 2019. The island resorts on the Adriatic are already popular with celebrities such as Beyoncé, Prince Harry, supermodel Naomi Campbell and Westworld actress Thandie Newton.

Obonjan is a Zen heaven with daily yoga classes, luxury glamping yurts and cabins. The island even has its own ‘Zen Den’ for spa treatments plus organic, seasonal and raw dining experiences. This idyllic hideaway offers everything a health-conscious hen could wish for. Obonjan Island is perfect for any hen party wanting a secluded luxe wellbeing experience in 2019.

The island hosts a maximum of 500 guests and is bookable exclusively in the UK through Red7.

For more information please visit www.red7.co.uk


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