Lost grooms and unexpected strippers are funny at a bachelor or bachelorette party — in the movies. When it comes to real life, follow these simple do’s and don’ts to avoid mishaps and guarantee a fun time.

Don’t get a stripper without talking to the party goers — Get input from other guests so no one feels uncomfortable.

Don’t get too drunk — Getting too trashed will make the night about you and less about the bride/groom-to-be.

Don’t go get tattoos — It may seem fun at the time, but in the morning it may not be so funny.

Don’t plan the party for the night before — “The Hangover.” Need I say more?

Don’t lose the groom/bride — See above.

Don’t invite the bride/groom’s fiance — This can alter the party mood entirely.

Do get a DD — This will allow everyone to let lose.

Do talk with the groom/bride and see what he/she is comfortable with — No one wants an unhappy bride!

Do have the bride/groom keep their phone at home — Texts from their fiance can be distracting and a buzz-kill.

Do have it at a place you won’t bump into the bride/groom — Keep the parties separate and enjoy some bonding time without the opposite sex around.

Do make it special — Do something you and your friends wouldn’t normally do together.