Luckily, 24 percent of the spas are located in the Northeast, and a majority of them are catering to girl gatherings. Here in New Jersey, many spas offer packages designed specifically for this event; and if they don’t offer a specific package, they are more than happy to help you create something. We found numerous options that offer everything from overnight stays to in-home massages. Ladies, let the bonding begin.

Lynne Walker McNees, president of the International Spa Association, says that spa visits for brides and their maids are a popular way to alleviate pre-wedding stresses. “The number one reason people go to spas is to relieve stress and feel relaxed,” she says. “Spending time at a spa is a perfect way for brides and bridesmaids to relax in a nurturing environment before the excitement of the wedding day.” And Justin DePasquale, director of DePasquale, the Spa, in Morris Plains, agrees, “It’s the ultimate bonding experience and counteracts all the stress synonymous with weddings.”

If a day of partying is ahead of you, why not start it out in a calm way? Stop by the salon and spa Blink (Marlton Crossing II, 245 Rt. 73 S, Marlton; 856-810-2552, www.blinksalon.com), for massages, facials, and manis and pedis. Depending on the size of your group and spa availability, the salon can close down for your exclusive use on Sundays. “It’s a great option for the whole party to be together,” says Jimmy DeMarco, the spa manager. If you can’t come on a Sunday, DeMarco will work with you to make sure that everyone is getting treatments at the same time. He suggests getting the mini facial ($50) and half-hour massage ($75), as well as the deluxe manicure ($23) and pedicure ($55). Trust us, it’s worth it. Blink also offers great services for the party on the big day. “We want to take care of everything,” adds DeMarco. Remember to ask about their discount for parties receiving a few treatments.

To ensure a true bonding experience and an all-around relaxing atmosphere, some spas are creating specific areas for ladies to gather and relax. “The ladies should be together and talk,” says Lisa Dolan, co-owner of Bloom Studio in Morristown (973-292-3377). With this in mind, she and business partner Marlo Ricciardelli created the ultra-modern b-lounge, a room that was specifically designed to offer parties a place to hang out and unwind while awaiting beauty services. The lounge is decorated in mauve, charcoal, and chocolate hues, and is accented in platinum and dark wood. There are large comfy pillows strewn about and a main cushioned platform area where four women can sit comfortably. Music is piped in, but if you have a certain mood in mind, you can bring your own tunes. And, if you’re coming for an early-morning get-together, breakfast can be provided. “We really want to cater to the party,” says Dolan. Depending on what you are interested in having done, different packages can be put together and can include things like wine and cheese, manicures and pedicures, facials, massages, a blow-dry, or a makeup session. “We rotate the ladies in an out of their services and the b-lounge so that everyone is being pampered,” Dolan adds. And if you come after regular hours, the whole studio can be yours.