I put together my wifes kit and showed her how it really doesn't take up that much space in her purse. I also tried to give her examples of how handy it would be to have these items on hand and how they can be used for multiple uses. You have to give it to them in little doses otherwise they get overwhelmed and then they tend to resist the whole idea. Her kit contains the following
spyderco delica
my old LM wave (she actually loves this and uses it often)
dorcy 1aa led light
small fak
bandana
REI mirror
mini bic & bison capsul w/tinder quick tabs 3 I think
mini fox 40
10' paracord fob on keys

small fix it kit with needles, thread safety pins, paperclips, flat roll duct tape, cable ties, 10' wire, razor blade, permanant match. all in a small nylon pouch (another favorite of hers)

1 lg trash bag & 1 space blanket (vacum packed for space)
small vials for prescription meds
2 pairs of glasses( main and backup pair)
2 gerber bags and 6 micropur tablets

The rest is her stuff ie. wallet/checkbook, cell phone,cash etc... I am very lucky in that my wife has started to embrace my commitment to being prepared for an emergency