Since starting my company Christian Grattan Photography (www.christiangrattan.com) I have shot hundreds of events, and I have learned my share of tricks. I want to share a few with you now. All these tips have helped numerous couples on their special day, as well as partygoers. These are little known and clients tell me how helpful they found them.

Things to Have On Hand:

A Can of Pringles - these flavored chips are weirdly comforting. More importantly, they are easy to eat, with little mess, nor risk of staining they'll just melt on your tongue. Finally, they are great at preventing queasiness. You will still feel nervous, but at least you won't experience nausea. If you need to go Kosher, an equivalent salty snack would help, too. Keep your blood sugar up and help absorb the champagne you drink as you get ready.

Flexible Straws - any make-up artist worth their foundation will carry these, I have some in my bag in case there are none on site. Whether it's water or Dom P, you are going to need to drink something while you are getting ready - after all, Pringles are kind of salty. You want to preserve the lipstick and prevent spills.

Listerine Pocket Packs - You are about to have a very important kiss with your man, make it a minty-fresh kiss he'll want to linger on. Listerine strips last well beyond the twenty minutes of the average ceremony. In fact, most people get a little dry mouth from nervousness. These wunderstrips will help with that, too.

Blotters - These are in my pocket for every event. I am partial to Lancôme Matte Finish
Shine-Control Blotting Sheets. A quick blot will do wonders, especially before formal photographs. You want to beam in front of the camera, not shine. Give some to the groom to keep in his pocket as well. As a photographer, I have tons of pockets for clandestine storage of all these items and I am with my client at all times. Your maid of honor will be all over the place working hard for you. She doesn't need to be your make-up mule as well. I always want my clients to look their best. If I spot that they are in need of shine control, I simply go in for a "quick word" and block the view with my camera as they discreetly freshen up. This way, you look great throughout the day and no one is the wiser that you have tricks up your sleeve. That "glow" is from being in love, honey.

Lip Gloss/Lipstick - Have whatever you need for touch-ups. If you have a make-up artist, ask them to bring a spare lipstick to give to you. You will be eating throughout the day, toasting, and kissing tons of people (especially your man)- you will need to reapply, often.

One more random aside, if you're experiencing dry mouth-despite all preventive measures-use this opera diva trick: gently nibble on your tongue.

These are just a few of the tricks I have amassed over the hundreds of events I have photographed. They are easy, effective and will help you look and feel your best while keeping the day running smoothly. Good luck, and remember to have fun.