Bridesmaids' Bag Essentials: What To Pack And Why

Bridesmaids' bags are often filled with emergency supplies, snacks, and other essentials to ensure the wedding day runs smoothly. These bags can be used to store items for the bridesmaids themselves, as well as the bride and other members of the bridal party. From comfortable shoes to tissues, pain relievers, and phone chargers, these bags are packed with items to address any potential issues that may arise throughout the day. Some bridesmaids opt for stylish handbags or clutches, while others prefer more practical tote bags or pouches. These bags are often personalised with names or monograms, serving as thoughtful gifts for the bridal party.

What to put in bridesmaids' bags as gifts

Bridesmaids often carry bags to store items they'll need throughout the wedding day. These can include practical items like a cell phone charger, tissues, and pain relievers, as well as personal items like makeup, deodorant, and hair accessories.

Self-Care Items

• A wellness journal
• Eye masks
• Birthstone or birth flower necklace
• Zodiac book
• Eye cream
• Lip balm
• Hand cream
• Hand sanitiser
• Sheet masks
• Deodorant
• Perfume
• Nail polish
• Makeup remover wipes
• Bobby pins and hair ties
• Compact mirror
• Mini sewing kit

Food and Drink

• Champagne or champagne gummy bears
• Chocolate
• Cookies
• Candy
• A water bottle or flask
• Coffee or tea

Accessories

• Earrings or a bracelet
• A silk robe or kimono
• A clutch or tote bag
• A small purse or handbag
• A yoga mat
• A travel jewellery case
• A pair of comfortable shoes, slippers, or flip-flops

Sentimental Gifts

• A handwritten note
• A framed photo or a custom illustration
• A candle
• A trinket dish
• A personalised t-shirt or crewneck sweatshirt

What to pack in a bridesmaid emergency kit

A bridesmaid's bag is an essential part of a wedding, containing items that can save the day in case of an emergency. Here is a list of what to pack in a bridesmaid emergency kit:

The Bag

Firstly, the bag itself should be considered. It should be spacious enough to carry all the essentials but not too bulky. A clutch or a small purse is ideal, but if you need to carry extra items, a tote bag or a small backpack might be more suitable.

The Essentials

• Lip balm or gloss: To keep your lips moisturised and shiny throughout the day.
• Mini mirror: To check for any stray spinach or happy tears.
• Mints or gum: For fresh breath after meals and close-knit dancing.
• Stain remover stick: For any unexpected stains on the dress.
• Tissues or handkerchief: To blot tears or wipe away sweat.
• Cell phone and portable charger: For capturing memories and staying connected.
• Powder or blotting paper: To stay shine-free, especially during outdoor weddings.
• Safety pins: For quick fixes and wardrobe malfunctions.
• Comfortable shoes: A pair of flats or sandals for when your feet need a break.
• Makeup wipes: To freshen up your makeup and remove any smudges.
• Snacks and water: To stay energised and hydrated throughout the day.
• Plasters: To prevent blisters and for any minor cuts.
• Deodorant: To stay fresh, especially during outdoor weddings.
• Hair ties: To save your hairstyle from dancing and warm temperatures.
• Pain relievers: For headaches or any other minor aches and pains.
• Bobby pins: To fix any hair or fabric emergencies.

Optional Extras

• Hand sanitiser
• Hairspray and makeup setting spray
• Dry shampoo
• Perfume
• Makeup remover wipes
• Q-tips or cotton swabs
• Clear nail polish
• Nail file
• Tweezers
• Eye drops
• Extension cord
• Small scissors
• Straws
• Mini speakers

For the Bride

As a bridesmaid, you may also want to carry some extra items specifically for the bride, such as:

• A copy of the wedding itinerary and timeline
• The wedding invitation
• Contact details of the bridal party
• The bride's phone and charger
• A water bottle and snacks for the bride
• A mini sewing kit for dress alterations
• A change of clothes for the after-party

What type of bag to choose for bridesmaids

As a bridesmaid, you'll want to be prepared for any eventuality on the big day. You'll be on hand to help the bride, and you'll also want to ensure you have everything you need to enjoy the celebrations. So, what type of bag should you choose?

Firstly, consider the size. A clutch or small purse is ideal for carrying a few essentials and won't be a nuisance as you go about your bridesmaid duties. However, if you're helping to organise things on the day, you may want to opt for a larger bag that can safely stash all your items. A cute tote, duffle, or suitcase could be a good option, especially if you're staying for a whole wedding weekend.

Next, think about the style. You'll want to choose something that complements your outfit and fits in with the wedding's theme or colour scheme. Perhaps the bride will provide bags for the bridesmaids, or you could ask for her input if you're unsure. Some brides opt for matching bags for their bridesmaids, which can be a nice keepsake and also look great in photos.

If you're planning to use the bag after the wedding, choose something versatile that you can use every day or for other events. A small, simple clutch or purse in a neutral colour is always handy, or you could opt for a tote bag in a style or colour that you love.

Finally, don't forget to pack the essentials! Here are some ideas of what to include:

• Lipstick or makeup for touch-ups
• Hair ties
• Bobby pins and safety pins
• Tissues or makeup wipes
• Phone charger
• Pain relievers
• Deodorant
• Water bottle
• Snacks
• Mini sewing kit
• Stain remover

Where to keep bags during the ceremony

There are several options for where bridesmaids can keep their bags during the ceremony. If the bridesmaids are travelling to the ceremony by car, they could leave their bags in the car during the ceremony. If there is a bridal room or holding room at the ceremony venue, bags can be left there. Alternatively, bags can be left in a hotel room, or given to a partner, friend or family member to hold.

If the bridesmaids are carrying bouquets, they will not have anywhere to put their bags during the ceremony. In this case, bags can be left in the bridal room or holding room before the ceremony, and collected afterwards.

What to carry in your bag if you're the bride

A bride's bag is essential for storing all the essentials on the big day. While the bag itself is important—perhaps a stylish clutch or a tote bag that matches the bridesmaids' dresses—what goes inside is even more critical. Here are some must-haves for the bride's bag:

The Essentials

These include your ID, phone, and a little cash. You may also want to keep some contact lens solution and a compact mirror to check for any stray tears or lipstick smudges.

Makeup and Hygiene

It's a good idea to have a small pouch with makeup for touch-ups, such as lipstick, concealer, eyeliner, and mascara. You can also include makeup remover wipes, oil blotting sheets, and breath mints or chewing gum. Don't forget to pack some feminine hygiene products, too, like tampons.

Health and Comfort

Pain relievers like aspirin or Tylenol are a must-have for any last-minute headaches or cramps. Band-Aids are also useful, especially if you're wearing new shoes, and bobby pins can help with any hair emergencies. If you have allergies or are prone to tears, tissues or a handkerchief will come in handy.

Practical Items

A portable phone charger is essential to ensure your phone stays charged throughout the day and night. You may also want to bring a small deodorant stick, especially if you're dancing or at an outdoor wedding. Hair ties and safety pins can be lifesavers for unexpected wardrobe malfunctions.

Extras

If there's room, you might want to consider including a small bottle of champagne for a celebratory toast, or a book to keep you occupied during any quieter moments. A pair of foldable flats or flip-flops can be a lifesaver if your feet get tired, and a small snack like an energy bar can help keep your energy up.

Remember, it's a good idea to delegate someone to look after your bag, like your Maid of Honor or a bridesmaid, so you can focus on enjoying your special day.

Frequently asked questions