What to Put in a Bride Survival Kit: Be Ready for Anything

1. WATER

It is incredibly important that you stay hydrated in the lead-up to your ceremony and reception. Your body is running extra hot, and requires the extra liquid to keep you cool. Also, alcohol will almost certainly be involved, before and after the ceremony, so it’s good to make sure you’re balancing that consumption with water. Have a bridesmaid bring a nice case of your favorite bottled brand.

2. DEODORANT

Don’t head to the venue without it. Chances are, the wonderful action of your dream event will have you sweating a little. That’s totally normal, of course, but it’s best to resist perspiring too much as a bride. Any just in case kit should include a fresh stick of deodorant—it can also come in super handy once the dancing gets going. BO isn’t on the guest list.

3. FASHION TAPE & SAFETY PINS

As you and your ladies are getting ready, it’s a near-certainty some fashion tape, safety pins, and other dressing utilities will come in handy. Fashion tape can be a life-saver not only for you, but your bridesmaids. A bridal emergency kit without it is no emergency kit at all. For good measure, get a couple rolls.

4. PAIN RELIEVER/HEADACHE MEDS

Major hype can lead to headaches. It’s totally natural that the level of action and lead-up to a your big day can have your head spinning. When thinking about what to put in a bridal survival kit, always think about a bottle of ibuprofen or other headache medicine. You’re also going to be wearing heels for long periods of time—pain reliever can take the edge off any ache that results.

5. PHONE CHARGERS

Let’s be honest: you are your bridal party are going to be snapping and posting all day. That, and doing a lot of texting/calling to make sure everything is falling into place—right up until the moment you walk down the aisle. There’s nothing worse than suddenly realizing your phone is suddenly sporting that dreaded 1% battery life. Bring multiple phone chargers.

6. STEAMER

On wedding days, steamers save lives. It is a certainty that you or someone else in the wedding party will need a steamer to eliminate annoying creases on the spot, so be sure to have a solid steamer on hand. We promise—you’ll be saying “thank goodness” more than once.

7. ANTI-BLISTER BALM

This one seems obvious, but so many brides forget it when putting together their bridal survival kit. You’re going to be wearing heels for a long time—and doing more than just standing. You’ll be walking, posing for photos, and dancing long before you have the option to swap your heels out for sandals (another item on this list) without coming across as tacky. Anti-blister balm is a must-have. You don’t want to start your honeymoon hobbling through the airport!

8. CHAMPAGNE

OK, yes, water is very important. Staying hydrated is very important. But, come on, you’re going to need some champagne on hand. As long as you don’t indulge too much before your ceremony, having some bubbly is sure to dial up the fun as you and your ladies get ready. We’re building a bridal emergency kit here—no champagne would certainly be an emergency.

9. MAKEUP KIT

Again, yes, obvious—but you’d be surprised what brides can forget in the blur of their big day. Make sure you’ve got a great makeup kit together, even if you’re having a professional do your makeup. You want to be able to touch up right up the moment of the ceremony—same with your bridesmaids.

10. SANDALS

At long last, a moment will come when swapping your heels for sandals will seem more than acceptable. But you still want to look cute! Pick out a pair of flats or sandals that will still flatter your bridal dress, but let you finish the night in style and comfort. You won’t regret it!