It's been a while since I shared a pic from my wedding—which was all outdoors—so there you go.
A girl can pretty much get dressed for a summer wedding on autopilot: Throw on a dress and heels and you're almost ready to go—without questioning whether you'll freeze to death in chiffon, or whether bare legs are ridiculous when there's snow in the forecast. (I ALWAYS choose suffering over wearing nylons!) But don't dash out the door without tossing these seven essentials in your clutch—especially if you're the bride.
1. DEODORANT Yes, you applied post-shower, but that first application doesn't stand a chance if the ceremony or cocktail hour is outdoors. A travel-size stick will fit nicely in your bag.
2. SUNSCREEN Same as above: Your earlier application won't protect you from the bride's walk down the aisle through the last dance—especially if the ceremony has you sitting through early afternoon rays. Put some sunscreen wipes (like these) into a ziplock plastic bag ahead of time, and give yourself a pre-ceremony wipe-down. (Don't forget your ears and neck!)
3. WATER A thoughtful bride and groom will probably remember to have pre-ceremony water on hand on a scorching day, but don't take your chances. Nothing kills a champagne buzz faster than passing out from dehydration. Even if the ceremony's indoors, remember: Those charming old churches aren't always air-conditioned.
4. SUNGLASSES Extra-important if part of the wedding is happening by water (whether it's the ocean or a pool), which will reflect the sun directly into your eyes.
5. INSECT REPELLENT Nearby bodies of water will pretty much guarantee some uninvited guests: mosquitoes. Of course you don't want to smell like a campground, so save the mosquito wipes (like these) till after the bugs start biting.
6. HEEL COVERS Your pretty heels don't stand a chance against wooden decks, gravel, grass, or sand. Protect your shoes, and prevent any potential face-plants, with a pair of Solemates, which are little plastic covers that slide over the bottoms of your heels and keep you from sinking—or getting stuck. {SO done that! }
7. A WRAP Depending on where the wedding's located, a scorching-hot day might turn to a freezing cold evening when the sun sets. A pretty wrap will look SO much better with your dress than your boyfriend's bulky suit jacket.
What other essentials do you like to have on hand for summer weddings? Did I forget anything?
Lots of brides might have most of the above in the bathroom basket, but I like to bring my own, just to be safe.