Things People Forget
Things People Forget
Highlights
The most-forgotten essentials: marriage license, rings, shoes, chargers, and place cards/favors.
We keep backups of many items on site, from toiletries to blank place cards.
If you forget something, tell us—chances are we have a workaround.
No matter how meticulously you plan, there are always a few items that couples (or their guests) tend to forget. The good news: we’ve seen it all, and we often have these very things on hand to save the day. Here’s a list of commonly forgotten items—review it to make sure you’ve got them packed, but even if you slip up, we usually have backups at the Manor:
Marriage License. It’s number one on our list because it’s crucial! Don’t leave home without the license paperwork you got from the county clerk. In the excitement, many couples tuck it in a “safe place” and then… forget that safe place. Assign someone to be responsible for bringing it to the ceremony. (We can’t legally marry you without it!)
Rings & Jewelry. Engagement rings, wedding bands, cufflinks, tie clips, earrings, etc. Pack them ahead. We have saved more than one best man with a spare ring box and even dummy rings in case of emergencies (so far, everyone has remembered the rings in time!). Also, if you wanted your engagement ring cleaned or polished, do that a week or two out, or we have a quick cleaner you can use here.
Shoes (and Comfy Shoes). Brides often forget the shoes for the dress until last minute. Also, groomsmen sometimes forget dress shoes and only have sneakers—we’ve seen it! Double-check everyone has their proper footwear. And bring comfy flats or flip-flops for later. We have a couple spare pairs of basic flip-flops if someone really needs (brand new), but sizes not guaranteed.
Toiletries & Personal Items. Perfume/cologne, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, contact lens solution, and so on. These everyday items are easy to forget when packing for a special event. We keep a stock of toiletries (deodorant, toothbrushes, feminine products, etc.) in our emergency kit, so if you find yourself without, just ask—likely we have it. We also keep nice things like luxury hand soaps and lotion in the bridal suite, but if you have a favorite scent, pack it.
Extra Undergarments & Socks. Bring spare pantyhose/tights if anyone is wearing them (runs happen). Pack an extra pair of socks for the groom/groomsmen (some groomsmen notoriously forget black dress socks). And an extra pair of underwear for the bride/groom isn’t a bad idea—sweat or nerves, you might appreciate a fresh pair after dancing. We have, no joke, had to supply clean unused men’s boxers once—we keep random things around!
Phone Chargers. Everyone forgets chargers. We have a few spares (micro USB, USB-C, iPhone) in our stash. But try to bring yours labeled with your name. You’ll likely want to charge your phone overnight or play music while getting ready.
Small Accessories. This includes: hairpins, the veil (don’t forget the veil at home!), garter, the little ribbon for the rings (if a ring bearer pillow is used), pens for the guest book (we have extras, but nice to bring ones you like), and printed materials like programs or menus. A lot of times, programs or menus get printed and left in a box in the office—put them with your other wedding stuff now.
Comfort Items for Getting Ready. Snacks for the getting-ready crew (though we stock snack baskets so you’re likely covered), specific drinks you want while dressing (mimosas ingredients—we provide OJ and have some champagne typically, but if you want a special rosé bubbly, bring that), and robes or matching PJs if you planned those for your party. People forget the robes all the time!
Cash for Tips or Emergencies. Have a little cash on hand for tipping vendors who expect it (see Tipping Guidance) or for any last-minute errands (e.g., someone runs out to get ice or medicine). Envelopes for tips are also often forgotten, so we have some pretty ones available if needed.
Place Cards & Favors. If you’re doing escort/place cards or wedding favors, don’t leave them sitting on your dining room table. They’re among the most frequently forgotten items because they often get finished last. Double-check you packed them. We keep a stack of blank place cards on hand for emergencies—so if cousin John Doe showed up and you forgot a card for him, we can quickly write one in calligraphy. But try to bring all completed ones.
Attire Odds and Ends. Extra buttons or sewing kit (we have), the bouquet toss bouquet (if you have a separate one), comfy clothes for after the reception (some couples like to change into sweats for the after-party or next morning), and umbrella if rain is forecast (we have many, but you might have cute clear ones for photos).
The bottom line is—don’t panic if you realize you forgot something. Nine times out of ten, we have a backup or workaround. We pride ourselves on being prepared. One bride forgot her bouquet at home two hours away; we quietly snipped some fresh blooms from our garden and tied a quick bouquet so she had something to carry (and she said it was lovely!). We’ve seen grooms forget pants (yes, really)—luckily a groomsman had an extra suit. No matter what, we will MacGyver a solution.
Use this list as a reference when packing your stuff (see Packing Guidance) and again before you leave for the venue. If it’s on the list, double-check it’s in the car. If you arrive and realize, “Oops, I left X at home,” tell us right away. If it’s essential (like a marriage license), someone might have to dash back or we’ll find a way. If it’s not essential, we probably have a spare or can live without it. Our mantra: “If you forget it, we usually have it on hand.” So don’t worry—we’ve got your back for those little forgotten things.