Bridesmaids' Purse Choices: What's Allowed And What's Not

There are many things to consider when choosing a purse to bring as a bridesmaid. While some brides may prefer their bridesmaids to carry matching purses, it is not a requirement. It is important to choose a purse that is comfortable and portable, as you will likely be carrying it throughout the day. It is also a good idea to pack essential items such as tissues, makeup wipes, a phone charger, and pain relievers. If you are concerned about keeping track of your purse, you can ask a designated person, such as the maid of honor, to hold onto it for you. Ultimately, the choice of purse is a matter of personal preference and should be based on what you feel comfortable carrying.

Matching vs individual purses

Firstly, it is important to note that bridesmaids typically do not carry purses during the wedding ceremony. This is because they usually have flowers to hold and it might be awkward to carry both. However, it is common for bridesmaids to have some form of bag or purse with them throughout the day, especially during the reception.

If you are a bride who wants everything to match, you may want to consider gifting your bridesmaids with matching purses. This can be a popular option, as it provides a place for bridesmaids to store their personal items and can also be a nice keepsake of the wedding. However, it is not necessary to provide matching purses, and some bridesmaids may prefer to carry their own bag.

If you are a bride who wants to allow your bridesmaids to express their individual styles, you may want to let them choose their own purses. This can be a great way to ensure that your bridesmaids feel comfortable and confident, and it can also take some of the financial burdens off of you. Additionally, if your bridesmaids are wearing matching dresses, shoes, and jewellery, individual purses can add a nice touch of personality to their outfits.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to go for matching or individual purses is up to the bride and what she envisions for her wedding. It is always a good idea to communicate with your bridesmaids and see what they prefer as well. As long as everyone is on the same page, either option can work!

Purses for the ceremony vs reception

Purses are an important part of a bridesmaid's ensemble, but there are some considerations to keep in mind when choosing a bag for the ceremony and reception.

For the ceremony, it is generally not necessary or practical for bridesmaids to carry purses. This is because they will likely be holding flowers, and it can be awkward to manage both at the same time. Additionally, during the ceremony, bridesmaids should be focused on their duties and supporting the bride. Any essential items can be kept in a designated room or with a trusted person, such as the maid of honour.

However, for the reception, a small clutch or evening bag is a good idea. This can hold important items such as a phone, lipstick, ID, money, and other personal items. It can be a nice touch for the bridesmaids' purses to match, and this is a popular gift from the bride. However, matching purses are not required, and each bridesmaid can bring her own bag if preferred. The purses can be kept on the tables during the reception, similar to any other party.

Overall, it is important to strike a balance between functionality and fashion. The purses should be small and discrete, but also able to hold essential items. It is also worth considering the colour and style to ensure they complement the bridesmaids' outfits.

What to carry in your purse

As a bridesmaid, you'll want to be prepared for the wedding day. While you may not carry a purse during the ceremony, you'll still need one for the reception, and there are plenty of photogenic options to choose from. You can also ask a designated person, like your mother or maid of honour, to hold on to it for you. Here's what you should carry in your purse:

The Essentials

• A copy of your speech: If you're giving a speech, it's a good idea to have a physical copy, just in case.
• Contact details of the bridal party: Keep phone numbers handy in case you get lost or have any last-minute questions.
• Cell phone charger: A portable charger will ensure you don't miss any Instagrammable moments.
• A mini pack of tissues: For tears or makeup touch-ups.
• A small umbrella: Be prepared for unexpected weather changes.
• Tampons: Just in case!
• Pain relievers: For headaches or cramps.
• Eye drops: To alleviate any redness from late nights or tears.
• Uber or a taxi service: Know your options for getting home or back to the hotel after the reception.

For Makeup and Hair

• Makeup remover wipes: To freshen up your face.
• Q-tips or cotton swabs: For any necessary touch-ups.
• Clear nail polish: A quick fix for chipped nails, runs in stockings, or buttons that are about to pop off.
• Nail file: Someone is bound to break a nail!
• Tweezers: Great for any last-minute alterations or addressing errant hairs.
• Mints: To keep your breath fresh.
• Band-aids: For blisters or any other minor injuries.
• Bobby pins: To keep your hairstyle in place.
• Hairspray and makeup setting spray: To keep your look on lockdown.
• Dry shampoo: A must-have if there's a next-day brunch.
• Extra hair ties: For when you're ready to let your hair down on the dance floor.
• Perfume: A rollerball perfume is perfect for travel and will keep you smelling sweet.
• Deodorant: A stick of clear deodorant to combat the heat.
• Oil blotting sheets: To freshen up without ruining your makeup.

For the Bride and Wedding Party

• A handwritten note: Write a note to the bride with your congratulations and well wishes.
• The bride's favourite snack: A nice surprise to help calm her nervous jitters.
• A gift for the newlyweds: Don't forget your gift, although you have up to a year to send it if you do!
• A card or gift from your plus-one: Remind them to bring a card and gift as well.
• A spare tote bag: Bring an extra bag in case the bride needs help carrying things home.

Where to keep the purse during the ceremony

Bridesmaids may be given purses that match, or they may bring their own. But what do you do with your purse during the ceremony?

If you have a date, they could hold your purse for you while you walk down the aisle. Alternatively, you could leave it in the changing room or in the car. If you are getting ready in a bridal suite, you could leave your purse there, or bring it with you and keep it on the table during the reception. If you are staying in a hotel, you could leave your purse in your room.

If you are worried about keeping track of your purse, you could ask your mother or maid of honour to hold it for you.

What to do if you don't want to carry a purse

While bridesmaids are not required to carry purses, some may prefer to have one to store their personal belongings. If you are a bridesmaid and would like to avoid carrying a purse, there are several alternatives you can consider:

• Leave your purse in a designated room: If you need to bring a purse, you can leave it in a designated room, such as the bride's chamber, and access it when needed. This way, you won't have to carry it during the ceremony or reception.
• Use a small clutch or evening bag: If you only need to carry a few essential items, a small clutch or evening bag can be a more compact and discreet option than a traditional purse.
• Utilize pockets: If you're wearing an outfit with pockets, you can use them to carry small items like your phone, wallet, or lip gloss. This eliminates the need for a separate purse.
• Wear a fanny pack or bum bag: Fanny packs, also known as bum bags, can be a stylish and hands-free way to carry your essentials. They are especially useful if you're wearing tights or an outfit without pockets.
• Use adhesive or phone case wallets: Adhesive wallets that stick to the back of your phone or phone cases with built-in cardholders can be a convenient way to keep your cards and cash close at hand without needing a purse.
• Try a lightweight crossbody bag: If you prefer to have a bag but want to avoid a bulky purse, a lightweight crossbody bag can be a good option. It allows you to keep your hands free while carrying only the necessities.
• Go for a small backpack: A small backpack can be a comfortable and practical alternative to a purse, especially if you need to carry a bit more than just the essentials.
• Use a belt bag or athletic belt: Belt bags or athletic belts with concealed pockets can be worn under your shirt, providing a secure and discreet way to carry money and cards.

These alternatives can help you avoid carrying a purse while still allowing you to have easy access to your essential items as a bridesmaid.

Frequently asked questions