It’s finally time to depart for my long awaited destination wedding! Honestly, I’ve never looked forward to packing, but all of the prep work and anticipation has landed me yearning to get on that plane to the gorgeous Virgin Islands. Planning a destination wedding has been relatively easy for me, so packing up my travel essentials is fun work to do. Since I’ll be doing my own hair and makeup for the big day there’s a few travel items that are totally necessary.

With the thinking that bags could be lost or delayed I’ve stocked up with duplicates for a few items. Remember this question? If you could take 1-2 cosmetics on a deserted island what would it be? For me, mascara and lip gloss! The most horrible thing that could happen cosmetically is not having my beauty staples. For this reason I’ll be bringing 4 mascaras with me and multiples of my favorite gloss as well. 1-2 go in my carry on, purse and luggage to ensure that I won’t be missing anything essential. The mascara I’ll be relying on it Lumene’s Blueberry Curl mascara which I’ve come to obsess over because it is AMAZING! If I only had these two items for my bridal makeup, I would still be happy.

Hair-wise, I’m pretty low maintenance. With the high percentage of humidity on St. John, having a flat iron is a necessity. Having a compact flat iron from T3 that I can put into my bag at any time (even while it’s hot) is even more necessary. If you aren’t familiar with T3 you’re missing out. It’s actually better to use T3’s hair tools then letting your hair naturally dry. The Singlepass Compact Iron is the perfect size to travel with and store in your bag. It’s fabulous to use to keep your hair shiny and smooth, plus you can curl your hair with it too. This little iron is my secret weapon and a multi-use life saver!

Don’t think I’m going to an island without an SPF! It’s definitely a travel essential for anywhere. This trip, I’m excited to be using Tocca’s SPF towelettes and not just for the convenience. These hypoallergenic, sweat resistant, aloe infused towelettes are scented with Tocca’s signature fragrance Stella. While helping protect my skin from harmful UV rays, the soft scent of blood orange will linger to mix in with the island surroundings. These are also individually packed, so if anyone wants a try, it’s no problem to disperse.

By the time you read this, I’ll be exploring the Virgin Islands, basking in the sun on Caneel Bay’s 7 private beaches, being massaged beachside at the Westin Resort, followed by more indulging at the Ritz Carlton on St. Thomas. Although paradise awaits, the most fabulous thing to happen this week will be marrying the man of my dreams. Go ahead be jealous .