the top ten list
top ten lifesavers for the big day
We’re just going to come right out and say it: this is not a sexy list. At all. (I mean, it includes anti-perspirant!) But there are a whole host of things that can—and may—go wrong on the big day, and you or someone you really trust should come prepared (just like the boy scouts) for any eventuality. Here is our bottom-line-don’t-forget-to-pack-it list of survival stuff for the big day. Photo: The Wink Wedding Day Emergency Kit stocks most of our must-haves; available at wink-weddings.com
Nail clippers/manicure scissors
Great for clipping loose threads, making sure the cuticles are ready for their close-ups, and trimming off any ends that you may—in your nervous state—have gnawed. Manicure scissors will take care of any small tags or torn ends without making a small problem much bigger.
Waterproof mascara
Really, this should be fairly self-explanatory, don’t you think? But remember: you’re not supposed to share makeup that you use on your eyes (although tell that to your hair and makeup girl), so do pack a few extra tubes for overwhelmed MILs and their ilk.
Bobby pins
Most of us do not rock a super-“done” look on a daily basis, and so we lack the skills to maintain the complicated hairstyles that so often go hand in hand with the bridal image. Bring extra bobby pins to tame stray locks—they’ll also (in a real pinch) hold on a button: work the pin through the hook on the button-back, push it through the opening, and then bend the ends back as far as they’ll go. MacGyver, eat you
A notepad and pen
Someone (not you, and probably not your mom) needs to keep track of items in and out on the day—like those gifts we were just talking about. Who will you need to thank later? It’s also a great idea to jot down memorable quotes or vignettes for posterity—and then, if you’re really serious about it, to make an album of the day, complete with those words, to give to the couple upon their return.
Clear nail polish
This magic elixir has many superpowers: it stops runs in your nylons! It can disguise a maimed manicure! (Apply a thin coat over the ragged end or chip and the resulting shiny surface will-temporarily—divert the eye from the problem.) It can even serve as “glue” for dropping-off sequins, lace or threads. So make sure you’re packin’ it.
Band-Aids
Those pretty shoes can also be pretty painful, and nothing is a faster reception buzzkill than a bleeding blister right where you don’t want it. Good, padded Band-Aids (the clear waterproof ones are good and hold well on ankles and heels) can save the day—and the dinner dance.
A fully loaded iPod (and its docking system)
You and the girls are likely to be holed up in the bridal suite for hours before the moment finally comes—and you don’t want to be stuck listening to piped Muzak or Live from the Pops! all day long. Bridesmaids take note: a Day-Of Playlist could be just the sort of “priceless” gift you’ve been looking for.
Hairspray
Did you know that hairspray not only holds your updo in rigid place, but also gets rid of static? It’s true—a quick spritz between you and your offending garment will remove the cling and restore your cool. Note: in this case, the cheaper stuff actually is best: L’Oréal Elnett rocks (it’s what the pros use when they’re styling supermodels).
Bags
Not shopping, and not under the eye—we’re talking about recyclable bags, the kind that fit into their own little pouches. They’re perfect for loading up gifts that guests have brought on the day (and someone always does), packing up makeup, clothes and the rest of it, and they take up no room on their own. Bring 12.