Items Your Bridesmaids Will Need on the Wedding Day

A list of important things a bridesmaid should consider carrying with them throughout the nuptials.

On the big day, there will be a number of tasks and items that brides and grooms need to remember... But what about the bridesmaids?

real wedding at the resort at pelican hill in newport coast california bride with bridesmaids in pink mismatch style dresses glam ceremony decor
Photo: Callaway Gable

The importance of being organized on your wedding day cannot be overstated. Developing a clear, concise, and feasible day-of itinerary and wedding timeline is pertinent for your wedding day to run as smoothly as possible. Even if you believe you have a great memory and can complete everything in a timely manner off the top of your head, what’s the harm in ensuring you’re fully prepared?

On the big day, there will be a number of wedding-related tasks and items that brides and grooms need to remember to bring – most important being the marriage license! – so it can get a little overwhelming to ensure everything is complete and ready to go.

Additionally, if you’re going to be a bridesmaid or a maid of honor in an upcoming wedding, there are certain items that would be of great benefit to carry – for the couple as well as yourself. If you are able to bring – and safely stash – a larger bag on the day of the wedding, or if you can pick and choose a few things to keep in a clutch or smaller purse, here are some important things to pack that will definitely come in handy:

Comfortable (and Portable) Shoes

If the wedding includes dancing – or even if your feet get tired easily – bring a flat pair of shoes along. You can purchase a cheap pair of portable flats or have your favorite pair of sandals ready to pull out of your purse to ensure your comfort well into the evening.

Tissues or Makeup Wipes

Through the tears, sweat, and activity on the wedding day, chances are high that someone’s makeup will run a bit. Have these on hand to wipe away any smudges, comfort the bride or groom, and even dab someone’s overheated forehead. They'll certainly come in handy for other bridesmaids, groomsmen, or the couple of honor!

Makeup Items

Bring along the shade of lipstick – or something close to it – that you have on, as well as mascara, concealer, and eyeliner for small touch-ups throughout the day. This won't be necessary if the makeup artist has been hired to perform touch-ups on the bride and wedding party throughout the night, but that's likely not the case.

A Small Snack

Stay energized with a few bites of an energy bar or a handful of crackers! It’ll be a busy day, so it’s important to remind yourself – and the rest of the bridal party – to eat.

Band-Aids

Little cuts happen! Be sure to have these available, just in case. Additionally, putting a Band-Aid on the heel of each foot may help alleviate some of the scratching and potential blisters caused by the backing of high heels. 

A Cell Phone Charger

With all of the coordinating and impromptu photo taking, your phone may very well run out of battery quicker than you’d expect. You’ll want to bring a charger – wireless, if possible – to make sure you can keep snapping pictures well into the night.

Extra Hair Ties

Even if all of the ladies are sporting long “down-dos,” having extra hair ties on hand will save a lot of people from ruining their coiffures on the dance floor. Throw your hair into a ponytail or high bun and keep dancing!

A Few Pain Relievers

Headaches from the stress of the day can occur quite easily, so have a few Tylenol – or something of the like – ready to take. Additionally, be sure to have plenty of water to sip throughout the event... especially if you're having a lot of cocktails or Champagne.

Deodorant

Sneak off to the bathroom to combat the heat of an outdoor wedding – or a thriving dance floor – with a stick of clear deodorant. After a full day of getting ready, taking photos, helping the bride with her bustle, and so on, you'll likely need it!

Breath Mints

Have fresh breath after enjoying delicious hors d’oeuvres or your main course – especially if you plan on some close-knit dancing with the rest of the wedding party! It's also a great way to mingle with other guests, as they'll likely want one too.

Bobby Pins and Safety Pins

As we know, hair and fabric can come undone at any moment, so having a fresh batch of pins is always smart. They can get lost so easily, so have a bag full of new ones to keep everything in place.

For more ideas, learn what to pack in your wedding emergency kit, find out what to do if your wedding vendor cancels at the last minute, and learn if you should hire a social media professional for your nuptials.

Opening photo by Callaway Gable; Bridal Salon: The White Dress; From Real Wedding: Outdoor Ocean-View Ceremony + Glamorous Ballroom Reception in California