Of course you’ll want your emergency kit, your transportation and your day-of itinerary locked down. But those things are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to your wedding day essentials. So just to be sure you’re briefed on the prerequisites, we’ve rounded up the less obvious things you’ll definitely need when the day rolls around. This way, you’ll be fully prepared when it’s officially crunch time, and you won’t have to delay the ceremony because you’ll be running out to grab your legal documents or trying to find an ATM. And don’t feel bad if you haven’t thought of these yet—you wouldn’t be the first.
1. Cash (and Envelopes) for Tipping…
Between your waitstaff, your DJ and anyone doing any heavy lifting to help set up your ceremony or reception, it’s likely you’ll have lots of people you should tip on your wedding day. Bring cash and premade envelopes to avoid loose bills and having to write checks on the spot.
2. …And for Unforeseen Incidents
Maybe you didn’t know one of your vendors doesn’t accept credit cards, or someone unexpectedly goes above and beyond the call of duty. Either way, you don’t want to be stuck in a position where you either have to run out to an ATM in the middle of the day, or leave someone in a lurch. Be prepared: Bring the cash.
3. Your Marriage License
Yes, you probably want your wedding to be legal, so definitely don’t forget to bring your marriage license. Since you’ll be focused on, well, getting married, hand it over to your officiant or appoint a responsible person to look after it so it doesn’t get lost amid the chaos.
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4. Chargers, Chargers, Chargers
Even if you’re having an unplugged ceremony or swearing off your cell phone for the night, you might still want a phone to keep in touch with family members, attendants and vendors during the day, or in case of emergency. And given the fact that you’ll probably receive more texts and calls on your wedding day than on your birthday (even though you’ve already designated your point people for certain phone calls), you’ll want to be prepared to plug in if need be.
5. Change of Shoes
As much as you love your brand-new four-inch stilettos you bought specifically to match your wedding gown, be honest with yourself: They probably won’t be comfortable when you’re breaking it down on the dance floor all night. Bring a pair of comfier heels you’ve already had a chance to break in, or even sneakers.
