Quick Fixes For Wedding Day Emergencies

If you're getting married, you probably know how much work planning the ceremony and reception can be. It's just as important to be carefully prepared on the day of your wedding, as things can happen that you'd never expect. With a little foresight, you can make sure that your wedding day goes smoothly and you can fix any problem that comes up.

It's essential to have a list of cell phone numbers of everyone in the wedding party, and all the companies that are providing you with wedding services. If you have a late caterer or missing bridesmaid, a quick phone call can clear up any mishaps.

An emergency kit is a must for you and your bridal party. You don't want to be suffering with a headache or trying to deal with smudged nail polish or makeup. You should bring a sewing kit, lint brush and a stain stick in case you need to sew on a button or remove spilled champagne from your dress. Pack extra stockings if you are wearing nylons, as well as clear nail polish to stop any runs.

You should have cosmetics, hairspray and bobby pins, even if you are getting your hair and makeup professionally done. You'll most likely need to touch up your lipstick or pin a loose curl back in place before your wedding. Also have a bottle of the same colored nail polish as you are wearing on fingernails and toes to touch up your manicure or pedicure. A pair of tweezers will allow you to pluck a stray eyebrow hair, and baby powder is a great remedy for sweaty feet or hands.

Other ideas for emergency kit items are eye drops for dry eyes and contact lenses, tissues, mints, tampons or pads, and an iron for unexpected wrinkles in your dress. If you take medication, don't forget to bring it along, and have a small first aid kit with pain relievers, stomach medicines and smelling salts.

You should have a bridal purse with enough room for makeup, extra bobby pins, a travel-sized bottle of hairspray, and breath mints. Keep tissues or a handkerchief on hand for tears during your vows, or a kiss-mark on your cheek from a guest. Include a handful of change for parking meters or pay phone calls.

Pack a snack bag for you and your bridal party. Although you might have trays of sandwiches, fruit and cheeses set out while you're getting ready, it's a good idea to have something to munch on after photos, or while waiting for your reception party to begin. Especially if you are sipping on wine before your ceremony, having a small bag of snacks such as carrot sticks, crackers, and nuts, and cold bottled water is a necessity. Just avoid any food or drink that could stain your clothing: stay away from things like nacho chips or fruit juices.

Before you head to the wedding venue, give someone in your wedding party or family any gratuity envelopes you'll need for the day. It's often customary to tip the wedding officiant, limousine driver, and DJ, but you don't want to be responsible for handing out money during your wedding.

If there are child attendants in your wedding party, don't trust them with the flower girl basket and ring bearer pillow until you arrive at the wedding location. Either give it to a parent, or keep it with you until right before the ceremony.

Many brides remember the guest book but forget the pen. It's a nice touch to have an elegant feather pen or colored calligraphy pen for guests to sign with. Remember to supply more than one pen for your guests, in case one gets lost, or runs out of ink.

When putting together your list of things to include, consider your wedding venue and theme. A hand held fan will allow you to stay cool and refreshed during a summer ceremony, and a bottle of bug spray will keep away pesky insects during a garden reception. If your wedding is during the winter, coordinate a wrap or shawl with your dress for travel between locations or chilly outdoor photos.

If a little problem comes up, or things don't go quite as smoothly as you hoped, you'll be thankful you were prepared. When something unexpected happens, that safety pin you packed or stain remover you brought along could be your most important accessory!