When it comes to wedding preparations, it doesn’t seem that regular guests outside the entourage have a lot to do. Your primary role is to eat, drink, and witness the love and union of your relative or friends—and how hard can that be, right? It actually isn’t! But given that weddings take place in different seasons and settings, and often with special and unique ideas that can throw the guests for a loop, it can be a challenge to have fun and partake of the festivities when you’re feeling a little unprepared (speaking from experience here—I still mourn for the satin pumps I ruined at a friend’s outdoor wedding a few months ago!) My secret to having fun? A well-packed bag of tricks! Read on for what’s in my bag when I attend weddings!
What’s In My Bag | 8 Things You Need To Bring To A Wedding
How to be the perfect wedding guest by packing a well-stocked purse
In my opinion (and I speak as a seasoned wedding planner and somewhat professional wedding guest), even if we aren’t bridesmaids or even ushers, we can make sure that the wedding goes off with a hitch by being the perfect wedding guest! After all, the bride and groom picked you to be part of the special day, and you owe it to them to wholeheartedly be in the moment without any worries. This is where my perfectly-packed fancy purse comes in!
At weddings, I often get asked what’s in my bag. At the risk of sounding like a modern-day Mary Poppins, I usually reveal to those seated with me at the table that I simply cannot attend a wedding without stocking my clutch with some essentials (that I often end up sharing with another guest in need). More than some tissues and my lipstick for quick retouches, these are the 8 things I always have with me when I attend weddings. Each item ensures I am always feeling my best and making the most of the big day!
What’s In My Bag # 1: Breath Mints
Gorged on all the apps at cocktail hour and worried about having some serious dragon breath? Slip a tin of mints into your purse to keep you minty fresh! It’s also a great way to wake up for the drive home when the party winds down. Also, one surprising use I discovered for breath mints I learned the hard way. My allergies acted up at one wedding and I had a seriously stuffy nose! A couple of mints decongested my nose in no time.
What’s In My Bag # 2: Foldable Flats
It’s enticing to dance the night away, but only when your feet are up to the task. When dinner makes way to dancing, it’s time to let your hair down and kick your heels up—or, better yet, off! Trade in those statement stilettos for these comfy yet stylish foldable flats. Give your feet a break while still looking oh-so-chic.
What’s In My Bag #3: Instax Camera
If there ever was an occasion to bring a camera, a wedding would definitely be it. What’s in my bag, you ask? Only the cutest, chicest way to take photos! The Instax Mini is the trendiest camera to tote when going to a fun-filled wedding. Take a Polaroid with the couple and have them sign it—it makes a wonderful keepsake!
What’s In My Bag #4: Mini Dry Shampoo
If the weather has gotten your hair all flat (or all the dancing has your ‘do looking less than camera-ready) a quick trip the ladies’ room to freshen up your mane with a spritz or two of dry shampoo will have you looking all glammed up again. Grab a travel-sized one you can stash in your purse.
What’s In My Bag #5: Oil Blotting Paper
The last thing you want is to see an oil slick where your face should have been in all the wedding photos! Oil blotting paper sops up excess oil while keeping your makeup intact. Beauty experts are loving this Korean makeup brand’s take on oil blotting paper. Bonus: the cute packaging comes with a mirror. Multitaskers will always have a spot in a small bag!
What’s In My Bag #6: Power Bank
How cute is this unicorn-shaped power bank? Extend your phone’s battery life and make sure you’re ready for hours upon hours of selfies and scrolling through the wedding’s hashtag. The adorable design is a great convo starter too, if you’re at a table of new faces.
What’s In My Bag #7: Stain Eraser
With so much food going around, you’re bound to have a little spill here and there. Don’t let it ruin your beautiful dress and your sunny disposition! Avoid awkwardness with an on-the-spot stain eraser that’s handy enough to slip into your purse. And you’ll definitely be the bride’s best friend should she get a spot on her gown!
What’s In My Bag #8: USB Fan
Outdoor weddings can get a little warm. No need to fret if your makeup is melting or your sweat is staining your dress. This little fan plugs straight into your phone! It may be small enough to fit inside your little clutch, but it’s definitely powerful enough to cool you down.
Now that you know what to stash in your nice purse or clutch, you can think about the rest of your wedding #OOTD. Watch this video by Chriselle Lim on amazing wedding attire here:
I’m sure you’re even more excited to attend this special occasion now that you’re armed and ready! Wishing you a wonderful time, as you wish your loved ones all the best on their special day!
Looking for more cool wedding ideas? Click here.
Featured image via Red Ruby Rose