Kate's hen party

Kate has had her hen party, which was hosted by her sister, Philippa, a friend's house.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/royal-wedding/kate-middleton/8412584/Kate-Middleton-follows-Prince-Williams-example-with-quiet-evening-in-for-hen-night.html


Not exactly sure what they do at a hen party,  but it's not a bridal shower.  American brides-to-be have bridal showers, usually hosted by the maid of honor, at a home or a restaurant, where the bride-to-be receives gifts (usually from the wedding list),  as well as the er um sexy lingerie for the wedding night.  Here in the U.S., a bride might have more than one shower, as co-workers might host one or friends if the maid of honor is from out of town and won't arrive until right before the wedding.  A bride-to-be will receive gifts at the shower(s) and at the wedding.