This blog post is all about what to pack in your wedding emergency kit.
Everything you should pack in your day-of bag—so you’re ready for anything.
No matter how well you plan, something unexpected will happen on your wedding day. A zipper might stick. Someone might spill something. You might realize your lipstick vanished hours ago—and the touch-up kit is sitting in the hotel room.
That’s why a wedding day emergency kit is a must. I’ve done hundreds of weddings as a makeup and hair artist, and trust me: even the most “low-maintenance” brides are grateful to have one. And after being a bride myself, I can tell you the emergency kit was clutch. There were definitely a few things I didn’t think I’d need—and I ended up reaching for them (looking at you, mini deodorant and sewing kit).
Whether you’re putting this together yourself or asking your maid of honour to handle it, here’s everything I recommend packing for your wedding day emergency kit. It’s better to have it and not need it than be stuck asking around for bobby pins mid-ceremony.
Beauty + Makeup Touch-Ups
You’re going to hug people. You’re going to cry. Your lipstick will fade. These are the essentials to keep your look fresh all day:
- Blotting papers (or oil-absorbing powder)
- Pressed powder + puff or brush
- Lipstick or gloss (whatever your artist used)
- Mini setting spray
- Cotton swabs (great for smudges or lash glue)
- Makeup sponge for dabbing tears or sweat
- Eyelash glue (if you’re wearing falsies)
- Tweezers
- Small mirror
Personal note: I did my own touch-ups between photos and the reception, and blotting papers were a lifesaver. It was a hot day, and they helped me look polished without caking on more powder.
Hair Fixes
Even with the best products, a little backup never hurts—especially if you’re taking your veil in and out.
- Extra bobby pins
- Mini hairspray
- Travel-sized comb or brush
- Clear hair elastics
- Edge control or pomade (if needed for your style)
- Travel-size dry shampoo
Tip: Ask your stylist for a few extra pins in your exact hair colour. And if you’re wearing a veil, have someone practice taking it in and out gently.
Fashion + Wardrobe Fixes
Little things go wrong. Threads pull. Straps break. Be ready for small surprises with:
- Mini sewing kit (thread, needle, scissors, safety pins)
- Fashion tape
- Stain remover pen
- Lint roller
- Deodorant
- Extra pair of tights (if wearing any)
- Heel stoppers (for grass or cobblestone)
- Back-up earring backs
- Flip flops or flats (trust me—your feet will thank you)
On my wedding day, someone accidentally stepped on my train and loosened a bustle loop. My coordinator had a sewing kit and fixed it in five minutes—total lifesaver.
Personal Care Essentials
This is the section that keeps everyone feeling fresh, clean, and calm. Throw in extras for your bridal party too.
- Mini toothbrush + toothpaste or mints
- Mouthwash
- Mini deodorant
- Tampons or pads
- Tissues
- Eye drops (especially if you wear contacts)
- Hand sanitizer
- Blister bandages
- Advil or Tylenol
- Antacids
- Nail file
- Contact lens case + solution (if applicable)
- Body wipes or travel-size body spray
Don’t skip the Advil. Even if you don’t need it, someone else will. Between nerves, lack of sleep, and champagne, it’s always a good idea to have pain relief on hand.
Food + Hydration
You might be too busy to eat much—until suddenly you’re starving. And trust me, you don’t want to feel faint halfway through the ceremony.
- Granola bar or protein snack
- Gum or mints
- Bottle of water
- Reusable straw (to sip without messing up your lipstick)
I had a banana, granola bar, and electrolyte drink before heading to my first look—it kept my energy up and helped calm my nerves.
Wedding Day Extras That Come in Handy
These are easy to forget but often super useful:
- Phone charger or portable power bank
- List of vendor contact numbers
- Extra copy of your vows or speech
- Mini umbrella (just in case)
- Tide pen (you’ll probably use this on someone else)
- Printed wedding timeline or schedule
- Extra envelopes or thank-you cards
- Cash (for tipping or emergencies)
How to Pack It All
You don’t need a giant suitcase. A medium-sized tote, packing cubes, or a clear plastic bin works great. If you have a coordinator, give it to them to keep nearby. If not, assign it to your most organized bridesmaid or your mom—someone who’ll know where it is if you need it.
You can also split items into two kits: one for the bridal suite and one for the reception space, especially if they’re in different locations.
Final Thoughts
You’re probably not going to need every single item in your emergency kit—but the peace of mind is worth it. This little bag is like your bridal insurance policy: one less thing to worry about when the day gets busy.
Pack it, delegate it, and forget about it—so you can focus on being present, enjoying your people, and soaking up every second of your wedding day.
This blog post is all about what to pack in your wedding day emergency kit.
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