You’re in the final countdown—wedding week is HERE. You’ve got the dress. The venue. The playlist is amazing. But you still can’t shake that feeling of “Wait… am I forgetting something?”
You might be. And it’s totally normal. So if you’re Googling “getting married soon what am I missing?” or frantically whispering to yourself “what not to forget on your wedding day”—this list is for you!
Let’s make sure you’ve got everything covered (even the things no one talks about until it’s too late).
1. The “Oh-Crap” Emergency Kit (Trust Me, You’ll Need It)
Let’s start with the holy grail: the wedding day emergency kit. This is your just-in-case, keep-you-sane bag of tricks.
Here’s what to pack:
- Fashion tape (HIGHLY recommend this one) & safety pins (for dress emergencies)
- Mini sewing kit
- Blotting papers, deodorant, mints, and a razor (seriously)
- Clear nail polish (fixes snags AND stocking runs)
- Pain reliever, Band-Aids, allergy meds
- Phone charger or portable battery
- Snacks (granola bars, crackers, mints—you’ll thank me)
► Get the Emmaline Bride Approved Emergency Kit List: What to Pack in Your Wedding Bag
Answers:
- “What should be in a wedding day emergency kit?”
Get the full list here.
2. Your Marriage License (Do. Not. Forget. This.)
You’d be shocked how many couples forget the actual paperwork. You must bring your marriage license to the ceremony, especially if you’re signing it after.
Pro Tip: Put it in a folder and assign it to your most responsible person (maid of honor, parent, planner).
3. Cash Tips & Thank-You Envelopes (Pre-Labeled!)
Day-of tipping is chaotic if you don’t plan ahead. Pre-fill envelopes with:
- Cash tips for vendors
- Thank-you notes for parents or your wedding party
- Final payments, if applicable
Pro Hack: Use printable envelopes with names and job titles (DJ, makeup artist, etc.) to hand out easily.
Helpful reading:
- “Who do you tip on your wedding day?”
4. Comfy Shoes or Flip-Flops for the Reception
No matter how comfy your wedding shoes claim to be, you’ll want backups. Stash ballet flats, sneakers, or flip-flops under the table.
This pair is like walking on a cloud! So affordable, too. By Cinderollies.
Bonus Tip: Bring a pair for your MOH, too.
5. The Rings (Yes, Really.)
You’d think this one is obvious—but it’s one of the most commonly forgotten items on wedding days. Make someone officially in charge of them.
6. Printed Vows or Speeches (Don’t Count on Your Phone)
Whether it’s your personal vows or a thank-you speech, print it out or write it down. Batteries die. Nerves happen. Don’t rely on your notes app. I highly recommend using vow books.
7. Weather Backup Plan (Even if It’s Sunny Today)
If you’re having any part of your day outside—ceremony, cocktail hour, even photos—make sure there’s a backup location or tent ready.
And don’t forget:
- Umbrellas for the wedding party
- Towel for drying chairs
- A plan for wind (veil weights or no veil!)
8. Vendor Contact Sheet
Make a master list of all vendor names, arrival times, phone numbers, and point-of-contact info. Print two copies. Give one to your planner or a trusted friend.
9. A Real Meal Before the Ceremony
You might be too nervous to eat, but you must fuel up. Arrange for a light breakfast or lunch and plenty of water (not just champagne).
Bonus: Bring a stain-proof wrap or robe so you don’t get anything on your dress.
10. Your Wedding Day Timeline, Printed + Shared
Print a few extra copies of your wedding timeline and pass them out to your wedding party and vendors. Don’t assume everyone has it saved to their phone.
Wait—Did You Pack These Too?
Here’s a lightning-fast list of last-minute wedding items not to forget:
- A pen for signing the license
- Water bottles for the bridal suite
- Your perfume (your scent will bring back memories for years)
- Extra earring backs and hair ties
- Tide-to-Go pen
- Ring box for photos
- Your overnight bag if staying elsewhere
- Toothbrush, floss, mouthwash
- Your wedding shoes (yes, some brides forget!)
- A happy cry-proof mascara
Love this bag for you (from Seline Lounge):
You’re Getting Married—You’ve Got This.
You are so close to saying “I do.” Whether you’re feeling on top of the world or lowkey panicking, this is your reminder: you’re doing great. Even if you forget one thing, the love is still what matters most.
But now? You’ve got the checklist. You’re prepared. And that peace of mind? Worth everything.
📌 PRO TIP: Download our free “Last-Minute Wedding Checklist” PDF below — printable, packable, and planner-approved.
💬 Tell us in the comments:
What’s one thing you forgot or almost forgot on your wedding day? Let’s help future brides avoid the same!
