His & Hers Wedding Day Must-Haves (Because Love Needs Lip Balm & Lint Rollers)

Your wedding day is a celebration of love, but it’s also a full-scale event that requires thoughtful preparation. While the big decisions — the dress, the venue, the timeline — are locked in, it’s the small details on the day-of that can make all the difference in your comfort, confidence, and ability to be fully present.

This guide covers essential wedding day items for both the bride and groom, designed to help couples feel calm, prepared, and completely in the moment.

 For the Bride: Wedding Day Essentials

Whether you're getting ready at home, a bridal suite, or on-site at the venue, here are the key items every bride should have within reach:

1. Touch-Up Kit

Include pressed powder, blotting paper, lipstick, setting spray, and a compact mirror to freshen up throughout the day. Consider assigning a bridesmaid to carry this kit for you.

2. Comfortable Shoes

You’ll likely be on your feet for 8+ hours. Pack a pair of stylish but comfortable flats or sneakers to change into after the ceremony.

3. Mini Emergency Kit

Think fashion tape, safety pins, a small sewing kit, stain remover wipes, deodorant, and feminine products — just in case.

4. Perfume (Travel Size)

A light reapplication after portraits or before the reception can give you a fresh, polished feel all evening.

5. Vows (Printed or Handwritten)

Even if you've memorized your vows, having a written copy ensures you're never caught off-guard by nerves or emotion.

6. Water & Light Snacks

It’s easy to forget to eat when you’re caught up in the moment. Pack a protein bar or something light to keep your energy steady, and remember to hydrate.

7. Tissues or Handkerchief

Whether it’s for happy tears or a last-minute smudge, tissues are a must-have — not only for the bride, but for her bridal party too.

 For the Groom: Wedding Day Essentials

The groom’s preparation may be more low-key, but having a few key items on hand can help ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

1. Grooming Kit

Include deodorant, a razor (if needed), cologne, a comb or brush, and mints. It’s also a good idea to bring a hand towel or blotting wipes if you’re prone to sweating.

2. Spare Shirt or Undershirt

Accidents happen — from spills during lunch to unexpected heat. A backup shirt can be a lifesaver.

3. Watch or Charged Phone

Timekeeping is essential on a day with a detailed timeline. Whether it’s checking in with vendors or staying on schedule, make sure one groomsman is designated as the unofficial timekeeper.

4. Lint Roller

Especially for dark suits, this small item can make a big difference in final portraits.

5. Tissues or Pocket Square

Even if he’s not the emotional type, having something on hand for the ceremony is wise. It's a meaningful day, and those moments often bring unexpected emotion.

6. Sentimental Item

A family heirloom, a note from your partner, or a keepsake adds personal meaning to the day — and makes for great detail photos.

7. The Rings (and a Checklist!)

Whether the groom or the best man is holding the rings, have a dedicated, no-fail place to keep them safe — and confirm their location before leaving for the ceremony.

 Bonus: Shared Essentials for the Couple

Some items are worth preparing together in advance:

Love Notes – Exchanging letters before the ceremony is a beautiful way to calm nerves and connect emotionally.

Phone Chargers or Power Banks – Especially for the morning prep, music playlists, or checking in with your coordinator.

Timeline Printouts – Keep a copy of the wedding day schedule handy for both parties.

Water Bottles – Personalized ones make for great keepsakes and will remind you to stay hydrated.

Emergency Contact List – Vendor numbers, planner details, and the maid of honor/best man’s contact info — all in one place.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding day will move quickly, and the more you prepare ahead of time, the more you can focus on what truly matters — each other. Whether you’re a bride, groom, planner, or photographer sharing this with your clients, having a day-of essentials checklist is one of the easiest ways to support a seamless, stress-free celebration.