Old fashioned, single-sex hen and stag dos could be consigned to the history books, according to new research. A staggering 73% of Brits say these typical pre-wedding celebrations are dead, with nearly two-thirds (63%) admitting they’ve even made up an excuse to avoid attending one. In fact, new research by holiday company First Choice finds that a resounding 85% of Gen Z would prefer to celebrate pre-wedding with all their friends together, rather than a traditional night out as a single-sex group.

Among the most outdated aspects of a pre-marriage weekend away were hiring a stripper or butler in the buff (51%). Dressing the bride in L-Plates (43%), penis-shaped straws (40%), and embarrassing pranks (34 percent) are also old fashioned, according to the 2,000 young Brits surveyed by First Choice.

But what’s taking the place of traditionally tacky, gendered celebrations? Well, according to younger generations, more inclusive ‘STEN dos’ are the way forward.

Inspired by celebrities like Paris Hilton, Tom Daley and Vogue Williams, nearly half of those surveyed (43%) have already attended a ‘STEN do’, where the bride and groom celebrate together with all of their friends. A resounding 3 in 4 (75%) prefer this mixed-group approach as a more modern and inclusive way to mark the occasion.

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But the rise of the ‘STEN do’ doesn’t mean we’re scrapping the short break away, with group travel abroad highly desirable (71%) for a modern STEN celebration. Popular choices include cultural city breaks (47%), shared luxurious villas with pools (44%) or beach destinations (36%). Activities are also getting an upgrade, with fancy dinners (44%), spa treatments (32%), beach days (29%), and music festivals (24%) topping the list for Gen Z.

But despite the desire for classy, inclusive trips, the financial burden of wedding celebrations can be a major concern. In fact, a staggering 95% of Brits who have recently attended hen or stag dos complain about increasing prices, making them difficult to afford. On average, guests are asked to shell out a staggering £538 per event.

As a result, cost-savvy Brits are seeking value. 83% would consider a package or all-inclusive holiday for their ‘STEN do’ to cut costs, with 3 in 4 (75%) believing it would significantly reduce potential disagreements within the group regarding costs and logistics.

Kevin Nelson, Managing Director of First Choice said, “While the concept of a ‘STEN do’ has been around for some time, recent years have seen significant growth in the trend of mixed- sex friendship groups, going away to celebrate a couple’s nuptials in a more wholesome way.

“At First Choice, we believe in creating the perfect trip for you, whether that’s sprawling self-serve villas, serene spa hotels to vibrant city breaks with culinary adventures – we can package together your flights, accommodation and all of the amazing stuff you do while you’re there at a great price to ensure every couple can celebrate their own way.”

With group trips to Portugal from £415pp*, Spain from £243pp*, Majorca from £407pp* and Rhodes from £421*– First Choice has a range of cost effective all-inclusive trips and villas. For the full range of group holiday options and STEN-friendly packages and experiences, visit here.

ASPECTS OF TRADITIONAL HEN AND STAG DOS WHICH ARE OUTDATED, ACCORDING TO BRITS