Bridesmaid's Guide To Purses: To Carry Or Not?

Whether bridesmaids should carry purses is a question that has sparked a lot of debate. While some people believe that purses are essential for carrying necessities like lipstick, powder, and other personal items, others argue that they can look awkward and detract from the overall aesthetic of the bridal party. Some bridesmaids choose to carry purses that match their dresses or shoes, expressing their style and ensuring a cohesive look. However, there are concerns about the practicality of holding a purse, especially when walking down the aisle with flowers. Ultimately, the decision rests with the bride, who may prefer a more uniform look or allow her bridesmaids to choose whether to carry a purse or not.

What to carry purses instead of?

There are many alternatives to carrying a purse for bridesmaids. Here are some ideas to consider:

No purse at all

Bridesmaids can choose to carry nothing at all, allowing them to focus solely on the bride and their duties during the wedding. This option embraces minimalism and ensures all eyes are on the happy couple.

Clutch or small bag

A clutch or small bag can be a stylish and practical alternative to a purse. It can hold essential items such as a phone, tissues, and makeup for touch-ups throughout the day. Clutches can also be gifted to the bridal party by the bride and groom as a thoughtful keepsake.

Alternative containers

Unique containers such as vintage fans, pinwheels, or parasols can be used instead of a traditional purse. These options add a whimsical or elegant touch to the bridal party's ensemble, especially for outdoor weddings.

Natural alternatives

Bridesmaids can carry natural items like wreaths, eucalyptus, wheat, or pine cones for a rustic, eco-friendly alternative. Fruit bouquets or grape bunches are also unique and colourful options, especially for outdoor or vineyard weddings.

Creative and artistic expressions

For a creative twist, bridesmaids can carry beautifully bound books, fabric flowers, button bouquets, or paper flower bouquets. Sheet music flowers or a teapot bouquet can add a personal and nostalgic touch to the celebration.

Seasonal and thematic choices

Thematic choices such as a boo-quet for a spooky wedding, a kissing ball for a festive touch, or a fur muff for a winter wedding can be memorable alternatives to a purse. For a beach wedding, a palm leaf fan or seashell bouquet can be perfect.

Storing purses during the ceremony

If bridesmaids choose to carry purses, they can store them in a designated holding room before the ceremony or leave them with a trusted person, such as a family member or friend. Purses can also be kept in the bridal room, transportation, or hotel room if not needed during the event.

Matching purses

• Gift Options: If you want your bridesmaids to have matching purses, consider gifting them with stylish clutches or evening bags. You can personalise the purses with their names or initials, or even include a heartfelt note inside. This way, they have a functional accessory and a memorable keepsake.
• Style and Colour: When selecting matching purses, consider choosing a style and colour that complements the bridesmaids' dresses and overall wedding theme. You can opt for a neutral colour that goes with any outfit, or choose a shade that matches the wedding colours for a cohesive look.
• Size and Functionality: Opt for purses that are large enough to hold essential items such as a phone, lipstick, tissues, and other small necessities. Consider choosing a clutch or a small bag that won't be cumbersome and can be easily carried throughout the day.
• Fabric and Material: Match the fabric or material of the purses to the bridesmaids' dresses or colour scheme. For example, if the bridesmaids' dresses are satin, you can choose satin purses in a complementary or matching shade.
• Individuality: While matching purses can create a unified look, you can also allow your bridesmaids to showcase their individuality. For instance, you can choose a specific colour but let them select their preferred style or vice versa. This way, they can express their personal style while still maintaining a coordinated appearance.
• Pre-Wedding Events: Matching purses can be a fun way to make your bridesmaids feel special during pre-wedding events, such as the bridal shower or rehearsal dinner. They can use the purses to carry their essentials and feel like a cohesive part of the bridal party.
• Storage Options: Discuss with your bridesmaids their preferences for storing their purses during the ceremony. Some options include leaving them in a designated room, with a trusted family member or friend, or storing them in the bridal suite. This way, they can be accessible but not a burden during the ceremony.

Where to keep purses during the ceremony

There are several options for where to keep purses during a wedding ceremony. One option is to leave them in a holding room that the bridal party waits in before the ceremony begins. Another option is to put them into a shopping bag and have a family member or friend look after them. Some people choose to leave their purses in their car or hotel room during the ceremony, especially if they don't feel they will need anything inside the purse during the ceremony. If you do want to keep certain items with you during the ceremony, you could put them in your pockets or give your purse to your Maid of Honor or another member of the bridal party to hold. If you are a guest at the wedding, you could keep your purse with you on the dance floor, leave it at a table within eyesight, or take it with you to the booths where food is being served.

What to keep in a purse

While it is not customary for bridesmaids to carry purses during the ceremony, it is a good idea to have a clutch or small purse on hand for the reception and other wedding-related events. Here is a list of what to keep in your purse as a bridesmaid:

The Necessities

• A copy of the wedding timeline and invitation, so you know where to be and when.
• Contact details for the bridal party, in case you get lost or have last-minute questions.
• Your cell phone charger, or a portable charger, to ensure your phone stays charged throughout the day.
• A bag of snacks to keep your energy up while getting ready and attending the wedding.
• A water bottle to stay hydrated.
• A mini pack of tissues for tears or makeup touch-ups.
• A copy of your speech, if you are giving one, to refer to during the wedding events.

Fashion Fundamentals

• A clutch or small purse to carry your essentials.
• Any jewellery you plan to wear, stored in a small bag or box in your purse.
• The right undergarments for your dress, such as a strapless bra or stick-on cups.
• Safety pins and double-stick tape for quick wardrobe fixes.
• A mini steamer to smooth out any wrinkles in your dress.
• A lint roller to remove pet hair or lint from your dress.
• A stain remover pen to tackle any unexpected stains.
• A mini sewing kit for emergency alterations.
• A change of clothes for the after-party, so you can step into something more comfortable.
• A spare tote bag in case the bride needs help carrying gifts or decorations.

Hair and Makeup Must-Haves

• A button-down shirt or a bridesmaid robe to wear while getting ready, so you don't mess up your hair and makeup.
• Your own makeup for touch-ups, even if you plan to have it done professionally.
• A travel mirror, as mirrors will be in high demand when the bridal party is getting ready.
• Hairstyling tools, such as a curling iron, for touch-ups.
• Extra hair ties, hairspray, and makeup setting spray to keep your look in place.
• Dry shampoo if you're attending a next-day brunch.
• Bobby pins to keep any loose strands of hair in place.
• Perfume, deodorant, and oil blotting sheets to stay fresh and odour-free.
• Makeup remover wipes, Q-tips, and cotton swabs for touch-ups or removing tears and feathered lipstick.
• Clear nail polish for fixing chipped nails, runs in stockings, or buttons that are about to pop off.
• A nail file and tweezers for last-minute alterations or addressing errant hairs.
• Mints to keep your breath fresh during the ceremony and reception.

Emergency Supplies

• Band-aids for blisters or other minor injuries.
• A small umbrella in case of unexpected rain.
• Tampons or pads, even if you're not expecting your period, as wedding stress can mess with your cycle.
• Pain relievers for headaches or cramps.
• Emergen-C to boost your immune system while running around all day.
• Eye drops for late nights or tears during the ceremony.
• A pair of scissors, which will come in handy for various small tasks.
• The number for a taxi service or a ride-sharing app on your phone, for a safe ride home after the reception.
• A small bottle of bubbly and a handful of straws for morning mimosas.

Other Items

• Mini speakers to play music while the bridal party is getting ready.
• A handwritten note to the bride with congratulations and well wishes.
• The bride's favourite snack to help calm her nervous jitters.
• A gift for the newlyweds, although you have up to a year to send it if you forget.
• A card or gift from your plus-one, if you're bringing a guest.

Choosing a purse

• Consider the dress code: While you want to showcase your style, it's essential that your purse complements the overall aesthetic of the bridal party. Discuss with the bride whether she envisions matching purses or a particular style, such as clutches or totes.
• Functionality: Think about the items you'll need throughout the day and choose a purse that can comfortably accommodate them. If you're carrying items for the bride as well, you may need a slightly larger bag.
• Colour and material: Opting for a purse that matches your shoes is a stylish choice and can help bring your whole look together. If you're looking for something unique, consider a statement piece that reflects your personality.
• Personalisation: Adding a personal touch, such as your initials or name, can make your purse even more special, especially if it's a gift from the bride.
• Practicality: Since you'll be on the move and may not always have a place to store your purse, consider choosing a lightweight option that's easy to carry. You may also want to think about leaving your purse in a designated room or with a trusted person during the ceremony.
• Comfort: Opt for a purse with a comfortable strap or handle, especially if you'll be holding it for extended periods.

Remember, communication with the bride is key. Don't be afraid to ask for her preferences and opinions, as it's her special day that you're there to support and celebrate.

Frequently asked questions