Bridesmaids' Essentials: What To Carry On The Wedding Day

Being a bridesmaid is a fun and important role, and there are lots of duties to consider before, during, and after the wedding. From helping to plan the hen party and keeping the bride calm and happy, to fixing her dress and veil throughout the day and giving a speech, there's a lot to think about. So, what should bridesmaids carry with them on the day? From the practical to the essential, here's a list of items every bridesmaid should consider packing.

Comfortable shoes

As a bridesmaid, you'll be on your feet all day, so it's important to wear comfortable shoes. Here are some tips and suggestions for choosing comfortable shoes for a wedding:

Choose the Right Style

Opt for flat shoes or low heels to ensure comfort throughout the day. Flat shoes can be elegant and stylish while providing much-needed support for your feet. If you prefer heels, choose a chunkier, block-style heel, which will give you more stability and comfort than a stiletto heel. Sandals with ankle straps are a great option, as they combine style and support. You could also consider wedge heels, which distribute your weight more evenly and can be more comfortable for prolonged wear.

Break Them In

Make sure you break in your shoes before the wedding day. Wear them around the house or on short outings to soften the material and mould them to your feet. This will help prevent blisters and sore spots on the day of the wedding.

Pack a Backup Pair

Consider bringing a pair of foldable ballet flats or flat sandals that you can easily slip into if your feet get tired. You can stash them in your bag and change into them during the reception or after-party.

Choose the Right Size

Ensure your shoes fit properly. Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, sore spots, and discomfort. If you're between sizes, opt for the larger size and use insoles or heel pads to get a perfect fit.

Opt for Comfort Features

Look for shoes with comfort features such as padded insoles, arch support, and soft, breathable materials. These features will make a big difference in how your feet feel at the end of the day.

Consider the Venue

Take the wedding venue into account when choosing your shoes. If the wedding is outdoors, for example, in a garden or on a beach, avoid stilettos or thin heels that might sink into the grass or sand. Instead, opt for a thicker heel or a flat shoe.

• Low wedge ankle strap flats
• Low block heel pumps
• Open-toe ankle strap chunky heels
• Chunky platform high heels with an ankle strap
• Closed-toe block heels
• Strappy heeled sandals
• Mary Jane pumps

Emergency supplies

As a bridesmaid, you'll want to be prepared for any eventuality on the big day. Here's a list of emergency supplies you should consider carrying:

First Aid

Plasters, painkillers, and other first aid essentials are a must-have for any bridesmaid. Blisters, headaches, and minor injuries are common occurrences during weddings, so be prepared to administer basic first aid.

Personal Care

It's important to stay fresh and comfortable throughout the day. Carry deodorant, oil blotting sheets, breath mints, and other personal care items to ensure you feel and smell your best.

Wardrobe Essentials

A small sewing kit, safety pins, double-stick tape, and stain remover can be lifesavers if there are any wardrobe malfunctions. Be prepared to tackle any issues with hemlines, rips, or stains on the wedding attire.

Beauty Basics

A mini makeup kit, including lipstick, makeup remover wipes, Q-tips, and a compact mirror, will come in handy for touch-ups throughout the day. Don't forget to pack extra bobby pins and hair ties as well!

Practical Items

A portable phone charger, a small umbrella, and a water bottle are practical items that will ensure you stay connected, dry, and hydrated. Don't forget to also pack some cash or cards for any last-minute expenses.

Remember, it's better to be over-prepared than under-prepared! By anticipating potential emergencies, you'll be able to handle any situation with ease and ensure the wedding runs smoothly.

Hair and makeup essentials

As a bridesmaid, you want to be prepared for any hair or makeup-related emergencies on the wedding day. Here are some essentials to carry with you to ensure you look and feel your best:

• Inspiration photos: If you're getting your hair and makeup done professionally, bring along some photos of looks you love or specific ideas you'd like to replicate. This will help ensure you're happy with the final result.
• Your own makeup: Even if you plan on having your makeup done by a professional, bring your favourite beauty products in case you need to do any touch-ups throughout the day and night.
• A travel mirror: There will likely be several bridesmaids getting ready in one room, so bring your own mirror to ensure you have easy access to one when needed.
• Hairstyling tools: While hair stylists usually bring their own tools, consider packing a curling iron or straightener in case you want to make any adjustments or touch-ups to your hairstyle later in the night.
• Extra hair ties: These will come in handy if you want to pull your hair back during or after the reception, especially when it's time to hit the dance floor!
• Hairspray and makeup setting spray: Keep your hair and makeup in place with these setting sprays. They will help ensure your look lasts all day and into the night.
• Dry shampoo: If there are next-day brunch plans, dry shampoo can help refresh your hairstyle and extend its life.
• Bobby pins: Keep a handful of bobby pins close by in case any loose strands of hair need to be pinned back.
• Perfume: A rollerball perfume is perfect for travel and will keep you smelling sweet throughout the day.
• Deodorant: Stay fresh and confident with a stick of clear deodorant, especially if you're attending an outdoor wedding or plan on dancing the night away.
• Oil blotting sheets: Use these sheets for a quick touch-up before the ceremony, especially if you want to avoid ruining your makeup.
• Makeup remover wipes: These are great for fixing any smudges or removing tears without disturbing the rest of your makeup.
• Q-tips or cotton swabs: These are perfect for any touch-ups, especially around the eyes.
• Clear nail polish: Not only can it help fix chipped nails, but it's also a quick fix for runs in stockings or buttons that might be on the verge of popping off.
• Nail file: Be the hero of the day by offering a nail file to anyone who breaks a nail before the ceremony.
• Tweezers: A handy tool for any last-minute clothing adjustments or for addressing any stray hairs.

Remember to also pack any personal care items you might need throughout the day and evening, such as mints, pain relievers, eye drops, and band-aids.

A clutch bag

A clutch is also a good place to keep a small sewing kit, which could be a lifesaver in the case of a wardrobe malfunction. You could also keep some stain remover in your clutch, as well as some makeup for touch-ups, such as lipstick, concealer, and eyeliner.

A speech

Good afternoon/evening everyone! I stand here today as a bridesmaid, and I just want to say what an honour it has been to be part of this special day. I know that [name of bride] has put so much time and effort into making this day perfect, and I think we can all agree that it has been truly magical so far.

I want to start by thanking [name of bride] for asking me to be a part of her bridal party. It has been a wonderful experience, and I am so happy to have been able to share this time with you. I know that the lead-up to a wedding can be stressful, and I have been so impressed by [name of bride]'s calm and collected attitude throughout the whole process.

I also want to thank the other bridesmaids, who have been a fantastic support network for [name of bride] and have made my job as a bridesmaid so much easier. We have had so much fun, and I know that we will continue to do so as we dance the night away!

I would also like to thank the groomsmen, who have been incredibly helpful and have ensured that everything has run smoothly.

Finally, I want to wish [name of bride] and [name of groom] all the best for their future together. I know that they will continue to support each other and share their love, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for them.

So, let's raise a glass to the happy couple! I wish you both a lifetime of happiness, love, and joy. Congratulations!

Frequently asked questions