The Ultimate Wedding Day Survival Kit - Your Go-to Guide for the Kit Every Bride Should Have

Sewing Kit:

A tiny tear or loose button doesn’t stand a chance against a little sewing kit. Make sure it includes needles, thread in a color close to your dress, and a pair of small scissors. You never know when this will come in handy! Pro Tip: As a wedding photographer, this is in my kit, and YES, I have had to sew several brides into their dresses when zippers or buttons malfunctioned!

Safety Pins:

Safety pins are a quick fix for just about any wardrobe malfunction. Whether it’s a dress strap slipping or a veil needing to be adjusted, these little lifesavers are always a good idea to have on hand for you and your wedding party as well.

Stain Remover Pen:

A red lipstick mark or a bit of spilled wine can be panic-inducing. Stain remover pens can take care of minor stains quickly and save you from worrying about any marks showing up on your dress or your guests’ attire. 

Pro Tip:  Create a little basket with these items and any others you think may come in handy for your guests and put it in the bathroom at your venue!

Lipstick & Lip Gloss:

You’ll want to keep your lips looking fresh all day long! Pack your lipstick or gloss for touch-ups throughout the day—especially after kissing your partner or sipping champagne during the reception. Remember to ask your Hair and Makeup Artist for a bit of the lipstick she used on you - most are happy to oblige and have handy jars and applicators.  Pro Tip: As a wedding photographer, I’m always asking the bride to reapply her lipstick before couples’ photos, especially for sunset photos that usually happen after dinner!

Blotting Paper:

Keep blotting papers in your kit to prevent shine and keep your skin looking flawless, especially if you’re prone to sweating or if it's a hot day. These little papers are a lifesaver for a fresh-faced glow that isn’t “all shine”.

Extra Hairpins & a Mini Hairspray:

Whether you're rocking an elegant updo or soft curls, extra hairpins can keep your hairstyle in place all day. A mini hairspray is perfect for those last-minute fly-aways or to refresh your hair before the reception, any planned photos and after dancing.

Comfortable Shoes for After the Ceremony:

Your wedding shoes are gorgeous, but let’s face it, they’re probably not the most comfortable thing in the world for all day wear. A cute, comfy pair of flats or sneakers will be a blessing once the ceremony is over and the party starts.

Tissues:

Emotions will be running high, and we all know that wedding vows often bring on the tears. Pack some tissues to dab away any happy tears and keep your makeup on point.

Deodorant & Perfume:

It’s important to stay fresh all day, especially when there’s so much excitement in the air! A mini deodorant and a travel-size bottle of your favorite perfume will help you feel like yourself and smell amazing.

A Mini First Aid Kit:

You never know when someone might get a minor cut, scrape, or headache. Band-aids, pain relievers (like aspirin or Tylenol), and a few antiseptic wipes should be in your kit. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Clear Nail Polish:

Clear nail polish can come to your rescue in multiple ways: as a quick fix for a run in your stockings, or to stop your nails from chipping. It’s a simple yet effective item to throw in your survival kit.

Supplies for that “time of the month”:

I don’t know about you, but my monthly visitor often comes when she’s least expected.  Seriously, almost every time I go on vacation…  Anyway, just to be on the safe side, pack yourself some supplies.

A Mini Planner or Checklist:

Although you’ve probably got everything planned out, having a small checklist to refer to can ease your mind. It’s a good way to ensure that nothing is forgotten, and you’ll be able to quickly check if something needs attention.

Phone Charger/Portable Power Bank:

The last thing you want is to run out of battery with photos still left to take or important calls to make. Bring a portable power bank or a charger to ensure your phone stays charged throughout the day.

Snacks & Water:

You might not feel hungry with all the excitement, but you need to stay energized! A granola bar, some nuts, or a small sandwich will keep your energy up. And don’t forget the water—hydration is key!

Extra Copies of Your Vows/Marriage License:

If you’re writing your own vows or need your marriage license for the ceremony, keep extra copies with you, just in case. These are things you really want to have backups of backups on! Plus a copy of your vows in a cute little book makes for an awesome forever keepsake from your day!

A Copy of Your Speech:

If you’re planning to give a speech during the reception, make sure to bring a printed copy just in case you get nervous or forget any important details. If you have everything written down on a piece of paper, or even on your phone, you can quickly reference it and make sure you don't forget to thank any important people.