What’s a wedding day if at least one thing doesn’t go wrong? 😛 When months and months worth of planning, organizing, and preparation all come down to one big day, chances are that something can be forgotten, out of place, or damaged. But that’s okay! Sh!t happens, right? The photographer is by the bride’s side all day long, and while typically there is a wedding planner or coordinator who will handle most mishaps, sometimes that is not the case. In order to keep the bride happy & stress-free, we’ve got to think on our feet and be prepared for anything! That is why I keep an “Oh Sh!t Kit” with me at all times! Here are some things I include in my kit and some items I keep in my car just in case!
In My Kit:
needle & thread
tons of safety pins
bobby pins
scissors
clear nail polish
compact mirror
buttons
fashion tape
sticky velcro pads
nail file
band aids
lady products
tide to go pen
Here are a few other things that I’ve found to be totally lifesaving!
a Leatherman (mine’s pink!)
neutral fabric for detail shots – sometimes hotel sheets & carpets are just ugly!
a command hook for hanging dresses
plastic bags to go over the camera when its raining
a clear umbrella for the couple to hold when its raining
a clear shower curtain for the bride to stand on (and tuck under her dress) when its muddy
gaffers tape (because things just break!)
a fake ring (just in case!)
dresses with pockets (for quick battery changes)
a printed copy of the wedding day timeline and family portrait groups
vendor contact numbers on your phone
a tall assistant 😛 My awesome 2nd shooter, Liz, is 5 inches taller than me and that makes hanging dresses (and reaching things in general) SO much easier! So thankful for you Liz!
Without Liz this photo would have never been possible. 😛
Some of these things might seem crazy but I’ve had to use almost every one of them! From sewing & pinning a ripped gown before the ceremony, to fixing fallen updos, to getting stains out of dresses, you just never know what life will throw at you – and your couples will be eternally grateful for being able to step in and help!
What else do you bring to weddings that might save the day? Let me know in the comments!
