As a rule, the concept of the bachelor party has long been a drunken night filled with wild partying.  Today, the bachelor party is changing, and although some guys stick with the theme of having strippers or head to Las Vegas for a weekend of gambling and drinking with their groomsmen, many are choosing alternative ways to have fun with their friends.

The groom must be clear with his best man about what he wants or doesn't want. It is the best man's responsibilty to plan the bachelor party, and he should come up with a fun idea and plan for the night in honor of the groom. Still, the groom needs to outline what's acceptable and what's not. This is extremely important to avoid any unpleasant surprises on the night of the bachelor party.

First, the groom must consider his bride-to-be. A lot of women aren't comfortable with their fiance visiting a strip club, or spending an all-boys weekend in Las Vegas where the old adage is “what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.” If the groom's  new father-in-law or brother-in-law are attending, it's probably a good idea to skip the exotic dancer jumping out of a cake and focus on an alternative party theme.

Modern day bachelor parties are becoming male bonding events, and a day of golf or a camping trip are great options for a party idea. Other bachelor parties center around adrenaline pumping activities like white water rafting or skydiving. However, for something like bungee jumping, skydiving or dirtbiking, the groom should avoid it altogeher or ask the best man to plan it well ahead of the wedding day. The groom spending his wedding day in a leg cast or with a face full of bruises would be an unfortunate end to an exciting bachelor party.

Co-ed bachelor and bachelorette parties offer another option for couples who want a new way to celebrate with friends before the wedding. A barbecue or dinner at a restaurant  is a great way for the wedding party to get to know each other. The couple can always have dinner at two separate restaurants and then meet later at a nightclub, pub or comedy venue for drinks.

If there will be alcohol at your bachelor party, remember to ensure that your best man has booked transportation for your friends for the entire night. You don't want to be stranded outside the bar, or risk people driving home after an evening of tequila shots. A limo is a great way to get to where you're going in style and comfort, and to get home safely.

Your bachelor party should be a chance for you to spend some quality time with your closest friends before you tie the knot. Trust your best man to come up with a fantastic party idea, but let him know what's important to you – you'll save yourself any uncomfortable situations, and have a memorable celebration with your closest friends.