3 ways to do a bachelor or bachelorette party in Dayton

With summertime just around the corner, there is one thing in particular that comes along that is harder to avoid than mosquitos: wedding season.

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Having taken my trip around the wedding sun a few years ago, I am happy to take the role of bridesmaid over bride any day. Being the bride is great and all -- all the attention is on you and you get a bunch of gifts -- but also you have to deal with crazy family members, and...all the attention is on you. As a bridesmaid, it’s true that you will have to wear a potentially ugly dress, but you also get to plan all the parties and drink as much as you want at the wedding. Basically, a bridesmaid gets to take care of the fun part: most specifically, the bachelorette party.

My bachelorette party was a big thing: we spent the weekend in Chicago, brunching, getting our nails done, hanging out by the pool, and bar-hopping the night away. I wore a white dress and was one of at least a dozen brides tottering around town on heels, celebrating my “last night” of single freedom. It was a blast, but it was also completely over the top.

If you are gearing up to throw your bestie a bachelor or bachelorette party, you don’t have to head out of town for a fun and memorable evening. There are plenty of awesome things to do in your own neighborhood. Don’t let the planning get you down, here are some fun places and great ways to throw the bride or groom a bash for the ages!

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GO BIG OR GO HOME: If you are planning to go all out for your buddy, I suggest dinner, drinks, and dancing until dawn.

I recommend starting at Salar. Their lounge area is sophisticated, sexy, and transports you to a much bigger city. Start off with a few bottles of bubbly and some small plates while you gab with your guys or gals. The lounge seating requires a reservation through their hostess, but isn't too cost prohibitive if you aren't planning on renting out the whole space.

Next, hop on the pedal wagon and cruise around town whooping and wailing for the bride or groom to be! Depending on the size of your group, you can rent out the entire wagon, or just reserve a seat. Grab a roadie and cruise on through the streets of downtown Dayton until you reach your next destination.

Credit: Photo: Contributed

Credit: Photo: Contributed

There's nothing like dancing on tables to celebrate the last of your friend's singledom. Do it with a great DJ and a rowdy crowd at The Masque. If you're ultra fancy you can see about reserving the VIP section, but hanging out on the main level with your friends while you groove and booze is just as cool. Beware, their drinks are strong!

Finally, stumble over to Smokin' BBQ to soak it all up before you take an Uber home. (You've got to get to a wedding safely the next day after all!)

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KEEP IT COOL: If you're looking to have a nice night out on the town without getting too crazy, there are plenty of great summer time events to ensure your bride or groom will have a blast.

Start out with great food and even better drinks at El Meson in West Carrollton. Their food is eclectic and delicious, and their mojitos are an absolute show-stopper -- not to mention all of their great seating options. Not only do they have two beautiful patios to dine, they have private banquet rooms for a more intimate (or boisterous) group!

Credit: Photo: Amelia Robinson

Credit: Photo: Amelia Robinson

Next, make your way to show at the Fraze Pavilion in Kettering. There's a show for every age group. They've got great shows from Elvis Costello to Big and Rich to Yes on their line up this year. For the 20's or 30's something crowd, consider their "I Love the 90's Revival" show. Grab some lawn seats for a bargain and a couple ice cold beers. You and your friends can boogie with each other in the cool evening air...makes ya wanna shoop.

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Finally, grab a nightcap at The Century Bar. With their gorgeous bar, relaxed feel, and incredible inventory of bourbon and other spirits, you can end the night on a great note. For a big group, try and grab the back table and send the bride- or groom-to-be off with style and a nice big Manhattan in hand!

Credit: HANDOUT

Credit: HANDOUT

LOW KEY LADS OR LADIES: If the bride or groom aren't exactly party animals, there are plenty of ways to ensure a fun day without getting too wild.

Start off with an afternoon Dragons game at Fifth Third Field. It's America's pastime, and I don't know anyone who can't have fun at the ball game. You can easily pick up group tickets, or rent a private suite for an ultra-luxe experience. Grab some peanuts and cracker jacks, sit back, relax, and enjoy the game!

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After the game, swing by one of Dayton's many breweries for pizza and beer. Dayton Beer Company and Warped Wing are just a short walk away. They both have great food options and a cool, unpretentious atmosphere, with plenty of games to play and different beers to try.

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Finally, grab some to-go beers from the brewery and make your way to someone's house. Watch a movie, play some "adult" themed games, and enjoy each other's company. Don't forget to grab something sweet, like some DLM Killer Brownies or Graeter's Ice Cream. Or, if food isn't the way to their heart, now would be the perfect time to make friends with someone who owns a pool!

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No matter what sort of bride or groom you’re planning for, there is no shortage of options for great things to do around Dayton. Happy planning, and happy wedding season!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Tess is a restaurant professional, home-baker and downtown Dayton dweller. When she's not mixing drinks for restaurant patrons, she's drinking champagne, buying shoes, or writing her blog, Ciao Vella. You can read about her home recipes, party planning tips, and more at www.CiaoVellaBlog.com.

About the Author