If you are getting married soon, YAY! 

I’m sure you’re hearing all sorts of advice for your wedding day from family, friends, the internet, and even passersby in the grocery store. While all the dos and don’ts can be appreciated, it can also feel overwhelming and a lot to process.

As someone who has been in the wedding industry for three and a half years, photographed more than 70 weddings,  and was a bride in 2022 myself, they really are not kidding when they say your wedding day goes by so fast. In the blink of an eye you go from planning the little details to walking down the aisle, and all of the silly things you were stressing over don’t feel as important as they once did.

Your wedding is not only a celebration of your love, but also the journey of marriage that you have to look forward to!

As your wedding photographer, I promise to be there for you in any way I can to ensure your day runs smoothly. To help ease some of those wedding day nerves, here is a simplified list of the top things I recommend having on hand the day of your wedding. Trust me, your future self will thank you for it! 

1. Items for flat-lay photos: To set the scene and commemorate your special day, I recommend that my couples begin compiling a flat lay box starting a month before their wedding day. In the box include: your invitation suite, save the date, ring boxes, all three rings, vow books, perfume, shoes, wedding day jewelry, veil, etc. Think of things that are important to you and/or set the story and scene for your wedding day! Other unique, fun items I have seen included are polaroids, movie tickets from your first date, champagne glass used for your champagne tower, something blue, handkerchief, etc. All of these items will be photographed in a more detail way and highlight some of the special colors and mementos that make up your day. Check out my Reel here for ideas on what to include in your flat lay box!

2. Change of shoes for reception: Being comfortable on your wedding day is incredibly important so you can spend less time feeling uncomfy and more time focusing on your people around you.  Especially if you are wearing heels, be sure to have a backup pair of shoes for the reception so you can party with your loved ones all night (in comfort!). Some brides opt for slippers and others go for sneakers. There’s no right or wrong, whatever you feel most comfortable in is the way to go! 

3. Sewing kit: In the hustle and bustle of getting dressed on your big day, a sewing kit is a necessity you’ll want to have on hand! Fix any loose buttons or tiny tears with ease. Several times we have brought out a sewing kit and fixed little uh-ohs without an issue!

4. Emergency kit for bride/bridesmaids: Having an emergency kit on hand can settle some of those anxious wedding day thoughts! Here is what I would recommend having on hand for the bride/bridesmaids: wet ones, makeup remover wipes, bandages, medicines (antacids, Tylenol, allergy medicine, etc.), deodorant, blister pads, floss, menstrual products, tissues, mouthwash, hair ties, fashion tape, stain remover (Tide to Go), and a wedding dress button hook. There are also great options on Amazon and Etsy that are premade with the essentials! 

5. Emergency kit for groom/groomsmen: The guys need some reassurance too! Here are some items I would suggest adding to their emergency kit: extra shirts, lint rollers, deodorant, shoe shine towelettes, stain remover, floss, shaving kit, safety pins, medicines (antacids, Tylenol, allergy medicine, etc.), tweezers and bandaids. 

6. Clear eyelash glue: This may seem silly, but trust me! Adding just a dab of clear eyelash glue to the back of your necklace will keep it in place all day long. If you forget to pack some, your makeup artist will more than likely have some on hand too so be sure to ask before they left the venue! 

7. Bubbles/sparklers for exit: If you plan to have a fun exit, whether it be with sparklers or bubbles, be sure to have them ready to go! For sparkler exits, I would recommend having the 36-inch ones! They have a longer burn time, giving your planner time to safely light everyone’s sparklers so you won’t have to rush. If you are planning a bubble exit, be sure to grab bubble machines! My recommendation would be to have four to six bazooka machines for optimal bubbles. While handheld bubbles for your guests is a fun, personal touch, the amount of bubbles they produce is minimal. Bubble machines are really going to give you the bubble exit of your dreams with enough bubbles to capture the exit well! 

8. Final timeline/itinerary: Having your finalized timeline on hand and posted throughout your getting ready spaces will be helpful for you to have while getting ready! Your vendors will be conscious of your timeline as well, but it is importante that your bridal party and family is prepared and know that everything is running smoothly. I also highly encourage you to send the timeline to each bridal party and family member so they have a copy on their phone to reference at any point. 

9. Marriage license: Arguably, the most important wedding day must-have! You will need to have your marriage license with you in order for the ceremony to be performed, so it is not something you want to miss! As soon as you receive it, put it in a folder in the bag you will be packing for your wedding so you know it is already taken care of! Many couples put their marriage license in their flat lay box since they know this box holds a lot of important items already. Be sure to also check with your officiant about where and how to obtain your marriage license, as each state is different or check out USA.gov for more information.

10. Groom Backup Dress Shirts: I cannot tell you how beneficial having extra shirts for your groom can be! If you are getting married in the warmer months or your groom tends to feel extra sweaty, have a few backup dress shirts for him! Not only will these shirts allow your groom to feel dry and pleasant throughout the day, but it also prevents him from having sweat stains present in wedding photos. Many grooms have used one shirt for pre-ceremony photos, one for the ceremony through the end of reception, and one shirt for the final send-off.

The most important thing to remember—this day is about so many things, but most importantly it is about your union with your husband/wife. If you forget your comfortable shoes or don’t have a sewing kit or eyelash glue, it’s okay!! You and your best friend are becoming one, and that’s all that matters. Weddings are all about love and celebration, but being prepared for unexpected mishaps never hurts! I hope this list is beneficial for your wedding day prep and provides the ease you deserve on your big day! 

Always in your corner! 

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