A Stag and Doe is a fun way to kick off your wedding celebrations while raising funds for the big day. As you plan your wedding, make sure to check out our wedding planning guide and explore our vendor directory for trusted professionals to help bring your vision to life.
What is a Stag and Doe Party?
A Stag and Doe, also called a Buck and Doe or Jack and Jill Party, is a pre-wedding tradition where a couple’s friends and family come together for a night of games, music, and fun—all with the goal of raising funds for the wedding. It’s a beloved custom in Canada, especially in smaller towns and tight-knit communities, where everyone pitches in to support the couple’s big day.
These events are about more than just fundraising. They’re a chance to celebrate the couple with their wider circle, creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere before the formality of the wedding.
When is a Stag and Doe Party Held?
Most Stag and Does happen a few months before the wedding, giving guests plenty of time to plan and get excited for the main event. They’re often scheduled on a weekend evening to make it easy for everyone to attend and to keep the energy high. Timing is everything—pick a date that doesn’t compete with other major events to ensure a full house.
Who Organizes a Stag and Doe?
Planning a Stag and Doe is typically the job of the couple’s wedding party—bridesmaids, groomsmen, or even close friends. However, family members often lend a hand, especially if they’re natural planners or have connections to local businesses for venues, prizes, or catering. It’s a group effort that brings everyone together, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.
How to Plan the Perfect Stag and Doe
Planning the perfect Stag and Doe involves a mix of budgeting, creativity, and community involvement. Here’s how to make it a success:
Budgeting Tips: Maximize Funds While Keeping Costs Low
Start by setting a clear budget for your event, keeping in mind that the main goal is to raise money for the wedding. Look for ways to minimize costs without sacrificing fun. Consider hosting the event at a local community hall or a family member’s backyard to avoid venue rental fees. Keep food and drink simple—ask guests to bring a dish, or work with local vendors who might offer discounts or donations in exchange for promotion. The key is to be resourceful while ensuring the event feels special.
Choosing the Right Venue
Your venue can make or break your event. Community halls, local clubs, or even backyards are great options, depending on the size of your guest list and the vibe you’re going for. If you’re planning a large event, look for a space that can accommodate a dance floor and games. If it’s more intimate, a cozy backyard gathering with string lights can create the perfect atmosphere. Be sure to book early to secure the best location, especially if you’re planning your Stag and Doe during a busy time of year.
Promoting Your Event
Promoting your Stag and Doe is key to getting a great turnout. Social media is a powerful tool—create an event page on Facebook or Instagram to spread the word. Don’t forget to ask your wedding party, family, and friends to share the event on their profiles to maximize visibility. Word-of-mouth is equally important; make sure to remind guests to buy their Stag and Doe tickets ahead of time, so you have a good idea of your attendance. Early promotion helps create buzz and excitement!
Creative Prize Ideas
Prizes are one of the highlights of a Stag and Doe, so getting creative can make all the difference. Reach out to local businesses to see if they’re willing to donate gift cards, products, or services. Not only does this help with your fundraising, but it also supports the local community. Friends and family can also contribute prizes, like handmade items, baskets, or even fun experiences. The more unique and exciting the prizes, the more likely guests will want to participate in the games and raffles!
Popular Stag and Doe Games and Activities
A Stag and Doe wouldn’t be complete without some fun games to keep the energy high and the guests engaged. Here are a few crowd favorites:
Crown and Anchor
Crown and Anchor is a classic casino-style game that adds a bit of luck to the mix. The game uses a wheel divided into sections, each marked with a symbol (typically a crown, anchor, or other themed icons). Players place bets on their chosen symbol, and when the wheel spins, the winning symbol is revealed. It’s simple, exciting, and always a hit at any Stag and Doe!
Raffles
Raffles are a great way to raise money while giving attendees a chance to win fantastic prizes. Guests purchase raffle tickets throughout the night, with each ticket entering them into a draw for prizes. The prizes can range from gift cards to local restaurants to bottles of wine, or even bigger donations from local businesses. You can also sell tickets for specific raffles, like “win a weekend getaway” or “family fun pack,” to keep things interesting.
Bottle Toss
The Bottle Toss is a fun, carnival-style game that’s perfect for a Stag and Doe. Players toss rings (or other objects) in an attempt to land them around the neck of a bottle. Depending on how you set it up, each successful toss could win a prize, adding an element of skill and excitement to the event. It’s a lighthearted, competitive game that encourages participation from all ages.
Trivia or Bingo
Both trivia and Bingo are fantastic games for keeping guests entertained, especially during slower parts of the night. Trivia can be customized to suit the couple—questions about their relationship, favorite movies, or even fun facts about their friends and family. Bingo is another classic that everyone can enjoy, especially with the right prizes up for grabs. These games are easy to set up and encourage guests to interact with each other, making them perfect for a Stag and Doe.
Tips to Make Games Fun and Inclusive
To ensure everyone has a great time, try to mix up the games so there’s something for everyone. Not all guests may enjoy high-energy games like Crown and Anchor, so including relaxed options like Bingo or trivia ensures no one feels left out. Offer a variety of prizes, from small trinkets to bigger, more valuable items, so everyone has a chance to win. Most importantly, keep the atmosphere fun and lighthearted—remember, the goal is to celebrate and raise funds, not stress anyone out.
What is a Stag and Doe?
A Stag and Doe (also called a Jack and Jill or Buck and Doe) is a pre-wedding party designed to raise funds for the couple’s wedding. It involves games, raffles, music, food, and drinks, and is typically organized by the wedding party.
When is a Stag and Doe held?
A Stag and Doe is usually organized a few months before the wedding, often on a weekend evening. The event allows the couple’s community to gather before the formal wedding celebrations begin.
Who organizes a Stag and Doe?
The wedding party—bridesmaids, groomsmen, and close friends—usually organizes the Stag and Doe. Sometimes, family members pitch in, especially if they have event-planning experience or local connections.
What kind of games are played at a Stag and Doe?
Common games include Crown and Anchor (casino-style), raffles, bottle toss, and trivia or bingo. These games are designed to entertain guests while raising funds for the couple’s wedding.
Why is it Called Stag and Doe?
The name “Stag and Doe” comes from traditional wedding customs, with “stag” referring to the groom and “doe” representing the bride. The event is a way for both sides of the family and friends to celebrate the couple, making it a fun and inclusive gathering. In some regions, it’s also called a “Jack and Jill” or “Buck and Doe,” but the essence of the event remains the same.
