On every wedding day, something small goes wrong. A zip sticks, a heel snaps, a button falls off the groom’s jacket or someone feels faint in the heat. The couples who laugh about it later are the ones who had a kit ready.
Pack an emergency kit a few days before the wedding and hand it to one reliable person: the chief bridesmaid, a coordinator or a sensible cousin. Make sure it travels from the house to the church and to the reception.
Clothing fixes
Safety pins in several sizes. A small sewing kit with thread in the colours of the gown, suits and bridesmaids’ dresses. Fabric tape for hems and necklines. Spare buttons. A stain removal pen. A lint roller. Clear nail polish to stop tights from laddering. A small pair of scissors.
Beauty
Blotting papers and powder for the heat. Lipstick and lip gloss in the bride’s shade. Spare false lashes and lash glue. Makeup wipes and cotton buds. Hair pins, a small comb and hairspray. Deodorant and a small perfume.
Health
Painkillers, antacids and antihistamines. Plasters for blisters from new shoes. Tissues. Oral rehydration salts. Sanitary pads. Any prescription medicine the couple needs. Sweets or glucose tablets for low energy.
Heat and comfort
In West African heat, this section matters most. Bottled water. A hand fan or small battery fan. A small towel or handkerchief for sweat. Flat shoes or slippers for the bride and bridesmaids to change into at the reception. An umbrella for sun or rain.
Documents and money
Copies of the marriage documents if needed at the church or registry. Small notes for tips, fuel or unexpected costs. The vendors’ contact list, with phone numbers for the decorator, caterer, photographer, MC and drivers.
Tech
A power bank and charging cables. A spare phone with the day’s schedule and contact list. The couple’s playlist on a flash drive for the DJ in case of problems.
Food
Snacks for the bride and groom. Many couples barely eat on the day, and a small snack between church and reception can prevent fainting.
For the groom
Spare cufflinks or studs. A spare tie. A small clothes brush. Shoe polish and a cloth.
Final tip
Label the bag clearly and put the coordinator’s number on it.
Most of what is in the bag will never be used. The one item that is needed will save a photo, a dance or a very long afternoon.
