10 Things Every Maid of Honor Forgets (That She’ll Regret)

Being a maid of honor is a huge responsibility. You’re not just the bride’s right-hand woman—you’re the ultimate planner, emotional support system, logistics coordinator, and party mastermind. And while Pinterest boards and TikTok checklists may have you thinking you’ve got it all covered, there are a few essential things most maids of honor forget—until it’s too late.

If you want to avoid the stress, drama, and 2 a.m. pharmacy runs, keep reading. These are the 10 things every maid of honor forgets (that she’ll definitely regret)—plus how to be the one who has it all handled.

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1. Hangover Kits for the Bachelorette Party

Let’s be honest: the bachelorette trip is not exactly a detox retreat.

Between bottomless brunches, pool parties, and dance floors, hangovers are inevitable. The one thing most maids of honor don’t think to pack? A bachelorette hangover recovery kit.

✨ Pro Tip: Bring a Rally Bag for each girl. It’s a ready-to-go hangover kit that includes everything from Advil and electrolyte powder to face wipes, ginger chews, gum, and even a cute eye mask. Trust us—this will make you the hero of the weekend.

2. A Printed Itinerary (Yes, Really)

You probably have the full schedule on your phone, but once you're five mimosas deep and the bride’s cousin is asking what time dinner is, you’ll wish you had a printed version.

It doesn’t have to be fancy. A simple itinerary card slipped into everyone’s welcome bag can make a world of difference.

Bonus points if you add emergency contact info, the hotel address, and a group chat QR code.

3. A ‘Just in Case’ Emergency Kit

Most maids of honor bring the obvious stuff: a cute dress, their speech notes, maybe an extra pair of shoes.

But when the bride’s lashes pop off or someone spills red wine on their outfit, you’ll wish you had a wedding day emergency kit. Think:

• Fashion tape
• Safety pins
• Blister pads
• Makeup remover
• Deodorant wipes
• Mini sewing kit
• Breath mints
• Tissues (for happy tears)

Keep it in a tote or crossbody you’ll have on hand all day long.

4. Comfy Shoes for the Reception

Every maid of honor has made this mistake: dancing for four hours straight in six-inch heels, and regretting everything by the time “Shout” plays.

Pack cute but comfy flats or sandals you can switch into. Or better yet, sneak a pair into the bridal suite for everyone to use. Your feet—and your future self—will thank you.

5. Snacks and Hydration Packs

Wedding days and bachelorette weekends run on adrenaline and champagne—which means you’re going to forget to eat.

Keep granola bars, trail mix, or protein snacks on hand. Even better? Stash some hydration powder packets or electrolyte drink mixes (like the ones in the Rally Bag) to prevent dehydration and headaches the next morning.

No one wants to be the one who passed out because she skipped breakfast and lived off vodka sodas.

6. A Back-Up Plan for Every Activity

Here’s a hard truth: something will go wrong. The dinner reservation might get lost. The Uber might cancel. The Airbnb may not let you check in early.

Always have a Plan B. Research nearby restaurants, save ride-share alternatives, and download all confirmations in advance. Flexibility = survival.

And don’t forget: your mood sets the tone. Stay calm, laugh it off, and always have snacks.

7. Thank You Gifts for the Crew

This one’s often forgotten until the last minute—but it makes a lasting impression.

Consider gifting the bridesmaids something small but meaningful: matching scrunchies, custom sunglasses, or even individual mini Rally Bags they’ll actually use post-party.

It’s a classy touch that says “thank you” for the help, drama, and 47 texts asking what color the shoes are.

8. Your Speech... Actually Written Out

We get it—you're funny. You're good on the fly. But nerves + wine + a crowd of 100 people = brain mush.

Don’t wing it.

Write it down. Practice it at least once out loud. Save it in your Notes app, print a copy, and keep a backup on your phone. Trust us, the bride will be emotional enough—she doesn’t need you rambling about that one time in Cabo for 12 minutes.

9. Photos Without the Photographer

The pro photographer will be focused on the bride, the couple, and the big moments—but there are so many personal memories that happen behind the scenes.

Take candids. Get boomerangs. Snap silly mirror selfies while getting ready. Take videos of the bride opening her gift. Capture the late-night karaoke.

These are the moments she’ll laugh at later (and want to post ASAP).

10. Time to Actually Enjoy It

It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of perfection—coordinating Ubers, checking timelines, fixing makeup—but don’t forget why you’re here.

You’re not just a planner. You’re her person. Her go-to. The one she chose to stand by her side.

So take a breath. Dance. Laugh. Take shots (responsibly). Make memories. And yes, have your Rally Bag ready for the morning after.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget About You

Amidst the chaos, make sure you’re taking care of yourself too. Pack your essentials, drink water, eat when you can, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from the rest of the bridal party.

Being the maid of honor is a wild ride—but with the right prep (and the right hangover kit), you’ll crush it.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s a wild bachelorette weekend in Nashville or a sunset wedding in the mountains, being maid of honor is about being prepared for anything—and enjoying every second of it.

From hangover kits to emergency plans, don’t forget these 10 things most maids of honor overlook. Your future self—and the bride—will be forever grateful.

Ready to be the MVP of the party?
👉 Grab your Rally Bag now and be the one who actually planned ahead.