Just as important as the flowers or dress, a wedding day emergency kit is a “must” to bring to your venue! We always hope for no emergencies on your wedding day, but it is better to be prepared than to be sorry. The matron or maid of honor should pack them in a tote bag and stash it in a safe but easy-to-access place during the wedding.

Here's a list of essential items to pack:

• Breath mints: Get your mouth ready for that first kiss with mini mints
• Tweezers: From stray hairs to clumped lashes, you never know when these will come in handy
• Clear polish: Smooth out any unexpected chips, but also can stop a run in your stockings
• Straws: So you can stay hydrated without messing up your lipstick
• Tissues: For dabbing away happy tears (and keeping your eye makeup on point)
• Medicine (pain reliever, allergy medicine, antacid): Take precautions for the big three issues that can attack at any moment—especially under stress: headaches, allergies, and indigestion
• Stain remover: Pack a portable stain-removing pen for any sudden spills. (Tip: white chalk can be used to cover any stubborn stains on your wedding dress)
• Fashion tape: To prevent those wardrobe malfunctions
• Mini sewing kit with scissors, needles, thread, buttons, and safety pins: For those “make it work” moments
• Q-tips & makeup remover: Eyeliner mistakes happen, but they don’t have to stick around
• Tampons/panty liners: Even if you don’t need one, someone else might
• Mini first aid kit with Band-Aids, burn relief, liquid bandages, and antiseptic: Safety first!
• Deodorant: Chances are, someone probably forgot to use it the morning of
• Razor: See above
• Dental floss / toothpicks: Just in case those snacks in the bridal suite try to overstay their welcome
• Alcohol: When all else fails, a little liquid courage is the ultimate backup. Have a couple airplane bottles of your favorite spirit handy… just in case

- Natalie Anderson is the Private Events Coordinator at El Camino Country Club