The Ultimate List of Things to Buy For Your Wedding
When planning your own wedding it is important to keep track of the many little bits and pieces. Even the best wedding planners can overlook a few items until the last moment, when it may be too late.
With that in mind, here is my guide to the ultimate list of things to buy for your wedding day.
TIP: Be sure to pin or bookmark this page for future reference.
- Bridal Attire
- Wedding Ceremony Decor
- 1. Wedding Direction Signs
- 2. Wedding Welcome Sign
- 3. Easels for Signs
- 4. Wedding Programs
- 5. Unity Candle
- 6. Shadow Box Sand Ceremony Set
- 7. Ring Box
- 8. Ring Bearer Pillow
- 9. Stylish Flower Girl Basket
- 10. Wedding Chair Signs
- 11. Wedding Aisle Chair Decor
- 12. Ceremony Aisle Runner
- 13. Loose Silk Rose Petals
- 14. Bubble Favors
- Wedding Reception Decor
- 1. Personalized Wedding Card Box
- 2. Wedding Guest Book
- 3. Guestbook Sign
- 4. Pens for Guest Book
- 5. Seating Chart
- 6. Place Cards
- 7. Place Card Holders
- 8. Table Numbers
- 9. Wedding Menu Cards
- 10. Toasting Flutes
- 11. Cake Platter
- 12. Mr & Mrs Cake Topper
- 13. Cake Knife and Server
- 14. Wedding Favor Sign
- 15. Wedding Favors
- 16. Wedding Favor Tags
- 17. Tea Lights and Holders
- 18. Photo Booth Backdrop
- 19. Sparklers and Sparkler Tags
- Gifts For the Wedding Party
Bridal Attire
1. Bridal Veil / Hair Accessory
I ended up wearing a fingertip length drop veil for my wedding, but now wonder if I should have worn a floor length veil instead. I strongly suggest choosing your veil and hair accessory long before your wedding day so that you know exactly which one you want to wear.
Try on the veil a few times throughout the process, take photos wearing it with your gown, and get a feel for how you will wear your hair. Only then will you know for sure which veil accessory is right for you, giving yourself plenty of time to purchase a different one. Read my complete guide to wedding veil styles to help you find the right veil length.
And if you need help, check out my e-commerce store at ClassicVeils.com. I’ve assembled a collection of ready-to-wear veils as well as custom bridal veils at an affordable price. Work directly with me to get the perfect veil!
Okay, sales plug over, now back to the ultimate list.
Why I like it:
- The tradition never gets old.
- You’ll look like a Princess! (Or Queen)
- It may be someone else’s “something borrowed” one day.
2. Bridal Jewelry
Just like your bridal veil and hair accessories, bridal jewelry should be chosen long before the wedding day!
Knowing what goes best with your dress is worthy of a whole other post. Some gowns with a high neckline might only call for chandelier earrings, whereas a sweetheart neckline looks stunning sans earrings, but rather a chunky necklace.
Do your homework. For example, Etsy has a large selection of stunning bridal jewelry and reasonably priced costume jewelry.
Why I like it:
- Again- Princess!
- Fabulous family heirloom potential.
- You’ll always treasure it.
Get it from AllureWeddingJewelry
Everything You Need To Know About Bridesmaid Jewelry
3. Bridal Shoes
Not to sound like a vacuous Sex in the City wannabe, but shoes really do make a girl feel better sometimes. Especially fancy shoes like lacy Jimmy Choos. Pricey? Sure. Worth it? Yep. Just think of how pretty that pearl will look next to your manicured tootsies! Comes in sizes 4-13 (U.S.)
Why I like it:
- You’ll adore them forever.
- Your friends will ooh and ahh.
- They’ll make a great vintage heirloom.
34 Comfortable Wedding Shoes That Won’t Hurt Your Feet
4. Bridal Lingerie
When the big day nears, brides are usually so caught up in worrying about everyone else that they forget to spoil themselves a little. We say phooey to that- and humbly suggest a sexy bridal lingerie purchase to look forward to on your wedding night! This little number features a flouncy vintage-inspired lace robe and a matching sexy silky-soft chemise you’ll both fall in love with. Comes in sizes XS to L.
Why I like it:
- Sweet and spicy combo? Yes please!
- You’ll feel like the sexy beast you are!
- Fantastic surprise for the hubs on your wedding night.
Guide to Choosing the Right Bridal Lingerie
5. Bridal Garter
Make your wedding day even more special with this timeless keepsake! This garter combines elegance and sentimentality with its delicate lace design and personalized embroidery. Featuring your new last name and wedding date, this garter is stitched for a luxurious, durable finish—no vinyl transfers here! Its stretchy, 2.25-inch wide lace ensures a snug yet comfortable fit, custom-sized for all brides, from petite to plus-size. You can even customize the thread color to perfectly match your wedding theme, whether it’s a classic baby blue or a bold burgundy.
6. Bridal Jacket or Wrap
If you’re having a fall/evening wedding, a luxe wrap to cuddle when the sun goes down is a must-have. But your wedding dress deserves so much more than an average pashmina! (Although a pretty pashmina makes a great bridesmaid gift.) This faux fur wrap imparts that “Frozen” ice princess vibe effortlessly while keeping your shoulders toasty all night long. Comes in four colors and sizes S-XL.
Why I like it:
- Effortless elegance.
- Two Words: Snow Queen.
- Re-use it for future events.
15 Stylish Wraps to Match a Fall Wedding
7. Dress Garment Bag
A fancy garment bag imparts a sense of anticipation. Hear me out: You see the wedding party arrive at the venue, their travel tote and garment bag in hand. You just know something fancy and fabulous is in that bag, waiting to be worn in a grand display. It’s a red-carpet moment without the paparazzi hanging from a tree. These are available with seven personalizable options and four sizes in your choice of black or white.
Why I like it:
- Everyone loves a practical splurge.
- They make a fabulous gift.
- It’ll protect your duds. Duh.
11 Bridal Garment Bags to Buy for your Wedding Day
Wedding Ceremony Decor
1. Wedding Direction Signs
Will your guests know where to go when it’s showtime? These cute rustic wedding signs are a simple but classy way to direct everyone to their destination and reduce the number of wandering guests. Aunt Louise will thank you. Available in 11 stains and plenty of location options.
TIP: To save you and/or your friends from scrambling the night before the wedding, be sure to either buy or DIY your wedding direction signs long before the big day. That way everyone can enjoy the rehearsal dinner and evening without gold pen all over their fingers.
Why I like it:
- Laid-back wedding decor is adorable.
- Seriously, your guests will thank you.
- The “restrooms” sign is reusable bathroom art. (Link to bathroom signs post?)
2. Wedding Welcome Sign
As with wedding ceremony direction signs, make sure to either buy or create your welcome signs long before the big day.
My ornate gold chalkboards welcome signs were complete before my wedding day, but still needed to be written out with chalk the night before.
Why I like it:
- Welcoming your guests never looked so classy.
- You can match it to your wedding stationery.
- It’s an outstanding contribution to your decor!
24 Wedding Welcome Sign Ideas By Theme
3. Easels for Signs
So you’ve opted out of individual wedding programs and seat numbers in favor of a big sign everyone will notice. Awesome! But an appropriately elegant display is essential. After all, no matter how gorgeous your personalized signage design is, it’ll lose all its magic if it’s stuck to the wall with scotch tape. This pretty floor easel comes in six finishes and holds signs up to ten pounds, 30×40 inches.
Why I like it:
- Again, no no to the scotch tape.
- It contributes to your decor.
- It’ll come in handy for other stuff.
4. Wedding Programs
Not a necessity, but a fun way to let your guest know who’s who in the wedding party, along with a schedule of events. Another cute idea if you are marrying in the hot summer sun are wedding program fans. We guarantee your guests will appreciate them!
Why I like it:
- Match it to your stationery suite.
- It makes an excellent keepsake.
- It’s helpful for your guests!
27 Unique Wedding Program Ideas & Wording to Inspire You
5. Unity Candle
A unity candle is a more recent tradition that is sometimes performed to symbolize the joining together of the two families into one united family. More often, a unity candle symbolizes the union of two individuals becoming one in commitment.
Why I like it:
- They’re gorgeous!
- So sweet displayed with your wedding photos.
- Your mom will cry (happy tears) during the ritual.
Get it from LaceyClaireDesigns
6. Shadow Box Sand Ceremony Set
Sometimes a lit candle just isn’t a good idea. Having an outdoor wedding? Maybe breezy. Have young children you want to include in the ritual? Wax burns. Had a pre-ceremony drink? Fire and adult beverages don’t mix. A unity sand ceremony may be your solution! This ceremony set comes with your choice of two sand colors to match your wedding decor, two 7.5″ pouring vases, and a lid to take it home without spills. Submit your favorite engagement photo to the DreamWeddingShop, and they’ll etch it onto the glass vessel for an heirloom-worthy keepsake.
Why I like it:
- It’s a meaningful gesture of your love.
- It’s a beautiful keepsake.
- It’s unique!
Get it from TheDreamWeddingShop
7. Ring Box
We chose not to have a ring bearer for our wedding ceremony, mainly because we didn’t know any younger boys to give the position to at the time. The next best thing is to find a pretty ring box and utilize the best man.
Why I like it:
- It honors the ring you’ll wear forever.
- It’s simple but elegant.
- It’s a priceless family heirloom.
13 Wedding Ring Box Ideas for a Luxury Style
8. Ring Bearer Pillow
No wedding checklist is complete without a touch of timeless elegance, and this satin and lace wedding ring bearer pillow is the perfect addition. Designed to carry your rings with sophistication, its delicate details—luxurious satin, intricate Spanish lace, and a pearl-accented ribbon—make it a standout accessory for your ceremony.
Measuring 17×17 cm, this pillow is lightweight and perfectly sized for little hands to carry with ease. Whether you choose classic white or ivory, its versatile design complements a variety of wedding themes, from traditional to modern. Looking for something more personalized? Custom color options are available upon request, ensuring it matches your vision perfectly.
Get it from AboutWeddingBoutique
9. Stylish Flower Girl Basket
Delicate rustic charm are the three adjectives that best describe this sweet flower girl basket! If you’re having a country-inspired wedding (and who isn’t these days), it’s the perfect accessory for your favorite petal-scatterer. We love the ringbearer pillow, too, btw, and the cool thing about this Etsy store is you can order as many baskets or combo pillow/baskets as you need.
Why I like it:
- Who knew burlap makes such a pretty flower?
- They’re handmade with love.
- Fill with goodies for the perfect gift!
10. Wedding Chair Signs
We already mentioned the importance of wedding signs to keep your guests from getting lost. But don’t underestimate the likelihood of losing your own way once you’re overwhelmed with festivities and attention and thinking things. Wedding chair signs not only nip that potential problem in the bud, but they also look super classy! Bonus: They’ll keep everyone in their place at the head table. So to speak.
Why I like it:
- Wedding glamour VIP vibes.
- Inevitably someone will need it.
- You can match it with your wedding stationery suite!
11. Wedding Aisle Chair Decor
Could you tell these were silk when you first saw them? We couldn’t either! Floral aisle markers add such a polished look to any ceremony, and we picked these specifically for their low-key elegance. Need a different color combo? Check out the AngelIsabella Etsy store. Guarantee they’ll have exactly what you want!
Why I like it:
- No such thing as too many flowers.
- Doubles as reception decorations.
- Silk flowers are low-maintenance.
12. Ceremony Aisle Runner
Nothing says fairy tale quite like a white velvet aisle runner! (Red is a close second.) This one features a non-slip lining on the bottom- made especially for picture-perfect brides who don’t want to bite it on their way up the aisle. Which is every bride in the history of brides. Crafted from faux velvet with cotton lining. Available in black, white, and red. Width 55″ x 10 to 100 feet long!
Why I like it:
- Velvet runner + flower petals = magic
- Looks fab with any wedding decor.
- You’ll feel like royalty.
Get it from FantasyFabricDesigns
13. Loose Silk Rose Petals
Rose petals are a staple for most weddings, and beyond the aisle runner, there are a hundred other ways they can multitask. (If you’re so inclined, consult Pinterest- you’ll see.) But if you’re buying the real thing, it’ll set you back more than a few bucks. Silk petals are a much more cost-effective alternative and are every bit as pretty! These come in packs of 300 for easy measuring and are available in four sweet colors.
Why I like it:
- I adore vintage elegance.
- A little goes a long way.
- Looks gorgeous with any decor.
Get it from RosePetalsEverywhere
14. Bubble Favors
Wedding favors are so much fun to shop for, and depending upon what you choose, they’re a great candidate for DIY wedding prep. These bubble favor labels are a perfect example! With a little help from your friends, you can create inexpensive favors your guests will love. These labels come in 17 design options- all you have to do is peel and stick!
Why I like it:
- DIY brides, I salute you!
- Bubbles look great in pics.
- Your guests will love them!
Get it from OliviaLabelFactory
Wedding Reception Decor
1. Personalized Wedding Card Box
Add a touch of rustic elegance to your wedding reception with this handcrafted card box. Made from high-quality plywood, it features a charming tree design with a heart-shaped cutout, a clear acrylic front, and custom engraving of the couple’s names and wedding date. Not only is it practical for storing cards, money, or small gifts, but it also serves as a timeless keepsake from your big day.
Measuring 11 x 9 x 6 inches, the box arrives safely disassembled for easy assembly and secure shipping. This beautiful addition to your reception décor is a stylish and meaningful way to celebrate your love story, making it a standout piece among your decorations.
2. Wedding Guest Book
Guestbooks can be a fun way to get creative and let your imagination run wild.
We used a double magnum wine bottle at our wedding, which was signed using a gold felt pen by all our guests. We plan to pop the cork on our 5th wedding anniversary.
There are all sorts of unique guestbooks to choose from. Below is a personal picture that is framed with your wedding day, signed with guests messages.
Why I like it:
- It’s got that rustic charm.
- It’ll last longer than a paper book.
- It’ll look beautiful displayed at home.
29 Wedding Guest Book Alternatives
3. Guestbook Sign
While plenty of guest book alternatives exist on the bridal circuit, the old-fashioned bound wedding guest book will never go out of style! An elegant acrylic sign is a great way to request your guests to sign yours. Personalize it with your names, and choose a flat or glossy finish. It’s also available with a huge variety of colors to customize your backsplash and text. Stand available for purchase.
Why I like it:
- Adds polish and class to any decor.
- It’s customizable to suit your colors.
- Incorporate it into your guest book for extra flair.
Get it from PinkPosiesandPearls
4. Pens for Guest Book
Make sure you have a pretty pen for both the wedding ceremony and guestbook.
Why I like it:
- Plain pens just won’t do.
- You’ll get lots of compliments on it from your guests.
- It’s personalized!
5. Seating Chart
What better way to show your guests to their table in style than an oversized seating chart sign? The right sign expertly displayed can make a beautiful and bold contribution to your wedding day decor! It contributes to the decor and points your guests to the correct table- who doesn’t love multitasking wedding decor?
Why I like it:
- Adds a bit of dramatic flair to your decor.
- It’s a multitasker.
- You can match with your wedding stationery suite.
15 Unique Wedding Seating Chart Ideas For Your Big Day
6. Place Cards
Sometimes certain guests need special seating arrangements. A strategically placed name card that assigns an exact spot at a table is a good idea.
Why I like it:
- Your guests will feel like royalty.
- Cuts down on (potentially explosive) seating confusion.
- It’s a beautiful addition to your table decor.
15 Unique Wedding Place Cards & Escort Cards
7. Place Card Holders
So you’ve got the seating chart to show your guests where they should go. The table numbers signal them to the right table. The place cards put everyone in the right place. Sounds efficient, but we’re missing the panache, right? That’s where an elegant place card holder comes in! Whether you choose a simple block or a polished stand, it’ll be the finishing touch you didn’t know you were looking for!
Why I like it:
- It contributes to the formal affair vibe.
- Your guests will appreciate the detail.
- It’ll impress your mother-in-law.
8. Table Numbers
Your guests have found their names and table on the seating chart- but that doesn’t mean they’ll be able to find it! Table numbers are especially in order if you’re having a grand affair in a vast ballroom, but not just to make it easier for everyone to find their way around. The faster everyone finds their seats, the sooner everyone can eat!
Why I like it:
- It’s an elegant addition to your tablescape.
- It’s a lifesaver at a large reception.
- Matching table numbers + seating charts = fancy!
9. Wedding Menu Cards
Whether or not you need menu cards is a question to ask your caterer. If all the guests will have the same thing for dinner or you are having a buffet, menu cards won’t be necessary.
However, if you are planning a sit down meal with options, guests will have an easier time selecting what they want if menu cards are available. Plus, any servers will thank you for not having to repeat themselves over and over to each table.
Why I like it:
- Matches your other day-of stationery.
- Your guests need to know what’s for dinner!
- Makes an excellent keepsake.
15 Unique Wedding Menu Card Ideas To Impress Wedding Guests
10. Toasting Flutes
There are going to be lots of toasts at your wedding. Personalized toasting flutes are a nice touch to go along with the special cheers.
Why I like it:
- The occasion calls for something extra.
- You’ll love them forever.
- They’ll make you feel like a celebrity.
Get it from HappilyEverEtchedInc
11. Cake Platter
The dinner’s great and all, but let’s face it, everyone’s looking for the cake! Your wedding cake is a work of art and deserves to be put on a pedestal- don’t settle for any old cardboard stand covered in aluminum foil. Bonus? You’ll want to use these well after the wedding’s over.
Why I like it:
- It’s realllly pretty!
- It’ll elevate your cake game (literally)
- You’ll use it again and again.
14 Cake Stands Perfect for Any Wedding Style
12. Mr & Mrs Cake Topper
Elevate your wedding cake with this custom Mr. & Mrs. topper, adding a personal and elegant touch to your reception. Handcrafted from wood and laser-cut with precise detailing, it features your shared last name in a graceful cursive script. Available in 17 stunning colors—including gold, rose gold, and natural wood—it effortlessly complements any wedding theme, from rustic to modern or glamorous.
Sized to fit cakes between 5” and 7”, this topper measures approximately 6” wide and 8” tall (including the stick). Fully customizable to suit your vision, this beautiful piece doubles as a timeless keepsake from your celebration, making it an unforgettable addition to your reception décor.
14 Word Cake Topper Ideas for your Wedding Cake
13. Cake Knife and Server
Why use just any old knife?! A gorgeous personalized wedding cake and knife server set is just what you need to make the cake-cutting ritual even more special. (And picture-perfect!) This set comes in silver, gold, rose-gold, and black with your choice of six font styles. You can even get it with a gift box for the ultimate personalized wedding gift!
Why I like it:
- It’ll become a treasured family heirloom.
- It’s excellent for cake-cutting photos.
- It’s gorgeous in every color!
14. Wedding Favor Sign
To hear her guests exclaim how cute the favors are is like music to a bride’s ears! (And they’re so much fun to shop for.) So it would be a real bummer to have an entire table full of favors that no one takes because they didn’t see them! Let’s eliminate that scenario with a pretty acrylic sign, shall we? This one comes in three sizes, with or without a stand. You can opt for a glossy or flat finish, and there’s every font color under the sun to accommodate your wedding colors perfectly!
Why I like it:
- Wedding favors are too fun to be ignored.
- Its minimalist design goes with everything.
- It brings elegant flair to the table. (Literally.)
Get it from PinkPosiesandPearls
15. Wedding Favors
Do you have to have wedding favors? Strictly speaking, no. Should you have wedding favors? Absolutely! There are so many to choose from, no matter what your guest list looks like, there’s something to please everyone at every price point. (The mini honey pot is my personal fave.)
Why I like it:
- Favors are so much fun to shop for!
- Your guests will love them.
- You’ll get to keep the leftovers!
21 Personalized Wedding Favors (They’ll Actually Use!)
16. Wedding Favor Tags
Wedding favor thank you tags are a perfect way to thank your guests for coming to the party! Plus, they’re super classy. So there’s that. Are you in love with your wedding stationery? Well, matching wedding favor tags are available in most of Minted’s wedding stationery suites. Again, super classy.
Why I like it:
- They’ll impress your guests.
- They’re a sweet way to say thanks.
- They MATCH!
17. Tea Lights and Holders
Candlelight is essential for setting the mood anywhere, especially on significant occasions when people gather to dine and dance the night away. Not only are these little lights charming, but they’re also versatile enough to suit your table perfectly! Use them as-is or fill them with decorative stones or other stuff (the silk flower petals on this list, for instance) to create something personal to your decor.
Why I like it:
- You’ll use them well after the party’s over
- They’re versatile.
- Candles make every table look better.
18. Photo Booth Backdrop
I’m not sure when photo booths became such a wedding staple, but they are genius! Not only are they the perfect way to capture the best photos, but they’re also the perfect way to entertain your guests while taking a dancing break. All in the most affordable way ever!
Why I like it:
- You’ll cherish the pics forever.
- Your guess will laugh till they cry.
- It’s much cheaper than a photographer all night!
19. Sparklers and Sparkler Tags
Add a bit of fireworks to your reception, literally. Sparkler send offs are so popular and a blast for everyone involved. Plus they create amazing an amazing photo op! These sweet little sparklers double as a takeaway and sparkler for the big send off. The best part? The sparkler tags include a spark strip for easy lighting! Time to get your sparkle on!
Why I like it:
- Easy to light
- Choose your own sparkler — the classic style is my favorite!
- Perfect for sparkler send offs!
Gifts For the Wedding Party
1. Gifts for Bridal Party
A fun photo I see from featured real weddings all the time is the bride and her bridesmaids each wearing matching robes while they get ready.
If you’re not the type who enjoys silk robes, there are lots of different gifts you can buy for your ladies.
Why I like it:
- Boy, do they deserve it!
- Shows your gratitude in the best way.
- They’ll treasure it.
29 Best Bridesmaid Gift Ideas for Any Budget
2. Gifts for the Bride
Whether she’s a scrapbooker or a spa enthusiast, a meaningful gift on the big day is a fabulous way to let the bride know you cherish her! There are plenty of thoughtful gift ideas on our list, but whatever you choose, make sure it’s just for her. The ultimate goal? Happy tears and hugs, of course!
Why I like it:
- She’s soooo worth it!
- It’ll make the day even more special
- She’ll love you forever for it!
56 Day-of Wedding Morning Gifts for the Bride
3. Gifts for the Groom
It’s true: most of the attention is on the bride during a wedding. But that doesn’t mean the soon-to-be groom wouldn’t love a small token of affection on his wedding morning! He’ll appreciate the gesture, whether it’s something funny like cold feet socks or something sentimental like personalized cufflinks. A small gift is a great way to let him know you can’t wait to see him at the altar.
Why I like it:
- Grooms need some attention too!
- He’ll probably tear up with joy.
- It’s a great start to the rest of your forever.
62 Best Wedding Morning Gifts for the Groom
4. Bridal Emergency Kit
Last but not least.
Stress management is one of life’s most essential skills, especially when wrangling a wedding. Have one of those ready to stave off potential disaster (and a harried trip to the nearest drugstore) with an emergency kit! This one has everything she’ll need, from Tylenol to fashion tape, and it’s a fabulous gift for your big day, or for next morning.
Why I like it:
- Your girl comes prepared like a boy scout.
- Perfect for packing in a small purse.
- She can refill and re-use for another day.
Phew! That’s all for now. We update this list from time to time, so you can be sure you’ve always got the best list of things that you need for your wedding day!
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Meredith
Despite her dreamy wedding blogger lifestyle, Meredith's day job is running ClassicVeils.com and a full-time mom to an active toddler. If she could, Meredith would spend her days taking cruises, helping animals in need, and watching Big Brother!
