a wedding planning guide

what to pack in your bridal detail bag (printable list)

by sophia + colby, chasing robins media · provo, utah

print this guidedownload the fillable pdf

quick answers
  • what it is: one bag with everything you need at the venue, just for you
  • when to pack: the night before, with the list in hand
  • where it lives: with your maid of honor or in the getting-ready room
  • biggest miss: snacks and water, every time

most brides have a to-do list for the wedding day, but not a list for what is actually in their bag. a bridal detail bag is the one place everything lives, so nothing gets left in the car or at the hotel.

here is what we see brides wish they had packed, and what is worth the space.

for the dress + getting ready

  • undergarments + backups. the pair you tested, plus a spare
  • shoes + a comfy second pair. your feet will thank you
  • veil, hair pieces, pins. and a few extra bobby pins
  • steamer or a plan. ask your venue if one is on site
  • jewelry in a small pouch. so it does not get lost
a bride getting ready at a utah wedding
pack the small things in pouches so they do not wander

for touch-ups + comfort

  • lipstick + powder blotting sheets
  • mints or gum, and a small mirror
  • tissues, because happy tears are real
  • safety pins, clear tape, and a tiny sewing kit
  • pain reliever and bandaids for the shoes
  • phone charger

if you want a bigger list for the whole day, read our timeline guide.

for you + your people

  • snacks and a water bottle. eat before the ceremony.
  • a note or gift for your partner, if you do that
  • vow book or letter
  • anything for your maid of honor to keep for you, like lip balm
details and getting ready at a wedding
a friend holds the bag so you can stay present

hand it to one person

your maid of honor, mom, or sister gets the bag and the printed list. they carry it, they refill it, and they find it for you in thirty seconds when you need something. that is a small job that saves a big headache.

free printable

the bridal detail bag list

a printable pack list with room for your own extras.

download the bridal bag list (pdf)

questions we get a lot

what should a bride pack on her wedding day?

undergarments and backups, shoes, jewelry, touch-up items like lipstick and blotting sheets, snacks, water, safety pins, and a phone charger.

who should hold the bridal bag?

your maid of honor, mom, or sister. one person who stays near you.

what do brides forget most?

snacks, water, and a second pair of comfortable shoes.

do we need a steamer?

ask your venue if one is on site. if not, plan for someone to steam the dress the day before or that morning.

if this sounds like the kind of wedding photos you have been looking for…

hi, we think we would get along. we do photo + video together, and we would love to hear about your day.

tell us about your day