Yes - you read that correctly - we are talking handbags today. We know it seems a bit weird, but stay with us because this is a must save post. Trust us. We would not steer you wrong.
Last week I was perusing Pinterest and came across a pin that lead me to Rue La La's style guide for handbags. (Well, the pin led to a blog post and the post linked to the guide.) I sent a link to Cindy of a gorgeous bag that I can't afford and we started discussing what kind of "bag ladies" we were...Katy - tote. Cindy - also tote (large). Then, somehow we started talking about a photo shoot we are helping style and that lead us to this:
This post isn't so much about WHAT handbag you carry, but more about what's INSIDE your handbag when you are headed to get family pics. If you remember last week's guide to a stress free photo shoot, Merry Momma C talked about preparation. This is part of that.
And we aren't talking crazy stuff, just a few essentials that we think can make the difference in an easy 2 hours spent screaming smiling with the ones you love. So brace yourselves, we are giving you a glimpse of our crazy today (but you will love it).
We have several general items that we bring to every single photo shoot:
1. Safety pins - you never know what's going to need fixing. Sometimes kids are at an in between size and you need to tighten up some pants, a dress, or shirt.
2. Lip gloss - This is pretty self-explanatory and not unusual but I like to keep it in my bag, not just for me but for the girls, too. It's the perfect bribe!
3. Extra hair flair (bobby pins, rosettes, headbands, clips) - You never know when the weather is going to change, fly-aways are going to occur, or kids are going to hate what you picked out. Be prepared and bring EXTRA.
4. Lint brush - You know, because of lint.
5. Bug spray - Especially in Texas. Especially in summer. Who am I kidding - ALL STINKING YEAR. #wehatemosquitoes
6. Flip flops/extra shoes - You won't be in every picture and you may have to trek through some interesting land to get to your space - don't ruin your good shoes, just bring extras!
We also have some items specifically for our small kiddos...
1. Baby wipes - It never fails that someone plays in dirt, picks up trash, or finds a piece of melted chocolate. Have baby wipes. They also serve as a great distraction when needed. Just let Tommy pull every single wipe from the bag - you can always put them back in and use them (especially on third kids). ;)
2. Candy (also known as bribes) - Grab some hard candy. If your photographer is good (and smart) he/she will have this covered. Make sure it's not chocolate or anything that will melt/run in their hands. We like smarties, jelly beans or fruit chews. As noted above, lip gloss is an excellent bribe for tiny girls.
3. Books/toys - Have something anything that will keep them occupied when they aren't in the picture. We've found books and toys helpful, but so is your phone or iPod.
4. Happy spray - Neither of the Mommas have actually tried this, but we have heard that it works. Just bring a small spray bottle full of water (and maybe even glitter) (I said maybe) (#wehateglitter) and tell the kiddos it's magic happy spray. Sounds silly, but hey #whateverworks.
And soon enough, our kids will become tweens/teens and we imagine that they may have a different set of "must haves"...
1. Special drink - We don't give our kids much besides water or milk and I don't anticipate Starbucks becoming a regular occurrence. It may be fun to drive through pre-photo shoot to get the older kids something before pictures begin. (or as a incentive for after the shoot). #havewementionedwelikebribes
2. Phone/Music - Not many of us ever travel without our phones these days, but make sure you have it especially if there are portions where kids aren't involved in pictures. This is a great way to keep them happy.
3. Hairspray - Yes, I did just post a picture of Aqua Net. It's the best. Says my MaMaw. Fly aways, happen. Wind happens. Wardrobe changes mess up hair. Just bring hair spray.
So there you have it. Our crazy is exposed. And if we thought a little longer, I'm sure we could come up with more items that you always need to bring - the ones we listed were no brainers!!
We leave you with our favorite totes out right now. Just in case you wanted to get us something for the holidays.
;)
(Gigi, Katy LOVEs this bag). (Like a lot).
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