Hello, loves! You’ve heard of emergency wedding kits in the past, but carrying around all that extra “stuff” can weigh heavily on your wedding bag. And, most wedding bags or clutches can only carry so much! Today, we’re cutting down on the clutter and sharing the seven things you must pack in your wedding bag at the very least. These carefully selected items are what we feel will keep you happy, pain-free, and embarrassment-free, too. We could always add more to the list – like mascara, and eye makeup remover – but we’re focusing more on things you’ll want to keep on hand. What would you pack in your wedding bag if you only had room for seven things? Here’s what made our cut…

Before you know what you must pack in your wedding bag, you NEED a wedding bag. Here’s one we love by Cloe Noel:

Love feathers? Here’s a new ostrich feather bridal clutch by ANGEE W.

(P.S. See more wedding bags here!)

What to Pack in your Wedding Bag

When you find the perfect wedding bag, be sure to fill it with these items. Here’s what to pack in your wedding bag:

1. Pocket Mirror

You won’t have to ask your MOH if you have something in your teeth, if your mascara is running, or your lipstick is smudged if you carry one of these. Pick one up at the dollar store or bring the one that’s already in your powder compact (free!). Want a pretty monogrammed one? We spotted this at Peachwik. So cute!

2. Floss

If you use your mirror and do have something in your teeth, you can at least fix the situation with some floss. If you already have a pack of floss or flossers at home, this one’s free. Just toss one or two in your wedding bag.

3. Bobby Pins

Bring a pack of bobby pins and your style will stay perfect all night. I love these in particular because they don’t slip. Worrying about your up-do falling out of place is a thing of the past!

4. Tissues (or Handkerchief)

Allergies? Tears of joy? Mascara before it runs? Cold? Prepare with a pack of travel tissues at a local dollar store – or just grab a few from home (free!) and fold them. You can also carry a handkerchief, like this one spotted at Duryea Place Designs.

5. Spot Remover

Spill wine on your dress? Coffee? Lipstick smudge? Mascara? Arm yourself with one of these and prevent that stain from sticking around.

6. Lipstick

You’ll kiss, sip, talk, and smile all night long. Keep those lips looking their best! Be sure to bring along your favorite lipstick. This one is called ‘Gentlemen Prefer Pink‘ by Revlon.

7. Aspirin (or Pain Medication of Your Choice)

Don’t let a headache ruin your day. Bring along aspirin or other preferred medication in a small pill box (this one tackles #1 and #7 at once) or one with a bridal flair, like this spotted at Kelly’s Magnets.

If you have extra room…

8. Foldable Flats

Flip flops won’t fit in a regular clutch, but these fold right up. At the end of the night, you can slip these on for the drive home to keep those feet happy. (Most of all, if your heels break or you get blisters, you’ll have a backup plan.) If you prefer, toss a pair of flip flops you already own in a tote bag hidden under the head table. The flip-flops shown in the photo are from Old Navy.

Happy Planning!

♥
-E.

What will YOU pack in your wedding bag?

Handmade Wedding Inspiration

Hello, loves! If you’re planning your wedding ceremony, this is a must-read post. And, if you’re not planning your ceremony yet, this is a must-bookmark post. (Hit Ctrl + D to save it for later!) We’re answering one of the most-asked ceremony questions: are wedding programs required? That’s what bride-to-be, Lindsay, wanted to know when she asked us:

“Dear Emmaline, My wedding is in September and I’m still planning my ceremony. Are wedding programs required? Do I really need them? Will guests even notice? I’m on a budget, so I want to make sure I’m spending money wisely. Thanks for your help!”

Great question, Lindsay! The answer to this question depends on what’s right for your specific event, but we’re here to help! Read on for the answer to Lindsay’s question, see our list of pros and cons, and get inspired with handmade wedding programs (plus one clever alternative)…

Are Wedding Programs Required?

One reason why I love weddings oh-so-much is because no two are the same. Every couple, ceremony, and reception are remarkably different. While planning your wedding, keep in mind that no wedding detail is an absolute requirement. It’s all up to you! Do you ever really need to send save the dates? No. Do you have to wear a veil? Nope. Do you need escort cards AND place cards? Are wedding programs required? No – but they can be helpful. For instance, if you want to tie in your theme, entertain your guests (or cool ‘em off), or share your unique story, a wedding program may be the right choice for you. Here are a few reasons why wedding programs rule, aptly named “pros”.

1) Wedding programs give guests something to peruse while waiting for your ceremony to begin.

Pick a unique wedding program – like a cootie catcher – and your guests will stay entertained.

These programs feature a word search and fun facts about the bride and groom. (Kids will especially love ‘em!) Don’t forget to include these.

And, how about these mad libs? Awesome.

2) Fan wedding programs can keep guests cool.

For instance, if you’re having a summer wedding and guests will be baking sitting in the sun, you may want to cool them off a bit. Wedding programs – in a fan-like style – can provide guests with information on the ceremony AND assist in cooling them off. Two birds.

3) Programs can provide information about your unique story and/or wedding party.

Check out these amazing illustrated wedding programs by B is for Brown.

4) Programs can include specific songs, readings, or responses (helpful for guests) during the ceremony.

5) Programs can include little toss packets (like confetti).

Need more inspiration? Here are some additional handmade wedding programs to inspire you…

Music lovers: give this cd booklet wedding program a look!

And here’s one clever program alternative! No paper required.

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As with any good list, it wouldn’t be complete without a few cons, too.

1) Programs can be expensive.

You’ll need wedding programs for each guest (or at least one per couple) which it can add up in cost.

2) You’ll need to have someone pass programs out to guests.

(Or, you can always place them in a a basket (like this). Be sure you place your wedding programs near the entrance so guests don’t miss it.)

2) Wedding programs are only used for a brief amount of time at the wedding.

You may feel like you’re not getting your money’s worth if your ceremony is very short.

3) Programs can be left behind at your ceremony site…

… so you’ll need to clean ‘em up afterward.

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In conclusion, wedding programs are not required but can offer a personalized touch to your ceremony. Have a question? Just Ask Emmaline and your question may appear in an upcoming post!

Happy Planning!

♥
-E.

Are wedding programs required at your ceremony or are you skipping them? Tell us below!

Handmade Wedding Inspiration

Are you planning a destination wedding and finding that your web searches are coming up short? Want to plan a wedding on a tropical island but you’re not sure where to go? Knowing where to start can be difficult, so we’re sharing some helpful tips for how to plan a destination wedding to ensure your I Do’s go off without a hitch. Read on to find out more…

How to Plan a Destination Wedding (from Miles Away)

We’ve recently discovered Ever After, a company that specializes in bringing your wedding day vision to life. With the help of their Romance Travel Specialists, planning your romantic escape has never been easier. After personally calling to learn more about your ideal destination, style and budget, a Specialist will match you to your dream location that meets your every need. Ever After’s Travel Experts have navigated the globe and can personally vouch for each property they recommend, so you don’t have to worry that the photos online won’t look like the real thing, or that you’re being taken advantage of. They’ll even advise you on wedding documentation and legal requirements so that everything is in order when it’s time to walk down the aisle.

“I have no idea where to go!”

Ever After‘s extensive wedding database covers all of the world’s most romantic wedding locations. Get married on a sandy white beach, in an elegant ballroom, on a terrace overlooking the shimmering ocean, or in a lush tropical garden. Looking for a unique location? There are even equestrian stables available for tying the knot! Thanks to Ever After, you don’t have to rely on web searches and crossed fingers: you can get real assistance by experts in the field.

“Okay, but how much is it?”

Destination wedding planning services are FREE free to engaged couples!

“How does it work?”

Get started today in six simple steps:

• Step 1: Fill out a super-simple short form to help Ever After understand your wedding dreams and vision.

• Step 2: You’ll be matched to a Romance Travel Specialist who is an expert in the type of wedding you are planning.

• Step 3: Your Specialist will call you to discuss the wedding experience you envision and any special needs for you or your guests.

• Step 4: Your personal Specialist will find the perfect destination and resort that matches your unique vision and personality.

• Step 5: Your Specialist will oversee the planning of your ceremony and reception, and advise you on local customs, wedding documentation and legal requirements.

• Step 6: Your Specialists will plan all of your guest travel, accommodations and activities, working with each of your guests to customize their experience.

Your Personal Romance Travel Specialist Will:

• Share their extensive destination wedding knowledge with you

• Recommend resorts and wedding locations that match your wedding vision and budget

• Oversee the planning of your ceremony and reception

• Advise you on local customs, wedding documentation and legal requirements

• Provide timely communication and personal attention

• Plan all of your guest travel, accommodations and activities

• Make sure that you receive all of the benefits and perks that you might not find on your own

• All with Ever After’s Best Price Guarantee

Start planning your destination wedding today: visit Ever After or call 800-256-4920!

This is a sponsored post by Ever After.

Happy Planning!

♥
-E.

Are you planning a destination wedding? Where is it? Tell us below!

Handmade Wedding Inspiration