A hen party, also known as a bachelorette party in the United States and Canada, is a pre-wedding celebration held for a woman who will soon be married. The term "hen party" may have originated in medieval England or from the henna celebrations of the East. The party is usually organized by the brides female friends and family members, and only female guests are invited. The activities and entertainment at a hen party can vary widely, from champagne and small talk to more adventurous activities like seeing a male stripper. The hens may also give gift bags containing quirky goods to the bride-to-be. The cost of the party is typically covered by the hens, unlike the bride-to-be. While hen parties can be enjoyable, they have also been criticized for their often excessive and debaucherous nature.