When you look through a wedding gallery, you've probably noticed those beautiful flat-lay photos of the invitation suite, rings, shoes, jewelry, and other meaningful details. They're some of my favorite images to create because they help tell the story of your wedding day from the very beginning.
The easiest way to make sure these photos are beautiful—and to save time on your wedding morning—is to have everything gathered together in one place before I arrive.
I call it your **Wedding Details Box**.
Think of it as a collection of all the little things that make your wedding uniquely yours.
What Should You Include?
Here are the items I recommend having ready before your photographer arrives.
Your Invitation Suite
If possible, ask your stationer for an extra set of everything.
Include:
* Invitation
* RSVP card
* Details card
* Envelope (both inner and outer if you have them)
* Wax seals
* Envelope liners
* Vellum wraps
* Ribbon
* Any custom stamps
These little pieces add texture and elegance to your detail photos.
Your Rings
Don't forget:
* Engagement ring
* Wedding bands for both of you
I always photograph these in several creative ways throughout the day.
Jewelry
Gather everything you'll be wearing, including:
* Earrings
* Necklace
* Bracelet
* Hair accessories
* Watch (if applicable)
Shoes
Whether they're classic heels, designer pumps, cowboy boots, or something uniquely you, your shoes deserve a moment in the spotlight.
Veil
A veil can add beautiful movement and softness to detail photographs.
Perfume or Cologne
I love incorporating the fragrance you chose for your wedding day. It's one of those little details that instantly brings back memories years later.
Vow Books
If you're exchanging private vows, have your vow books ready. They photograph beautifully and become meaningful keepsakes.
Bouquet Ribbon or Loose Florals
I often ask your florist to leave behind a few extra blooms, greenery, or loose petals. These help create elegant, organic flat lays without taking apart your bouquet.
Family Heirlooms
Some of my favorite detail photographs include meaningful family treasures.
Think about including:
* Grandma's handkerchief
* A family Bible
* Vintage jewelry
* A pocket watch
* Your mother's veil
* A locket with a loved one's photo
* A handwritten letter
* Something borrowed
* Something blue
These details make your gallery even more personal.
Meaningful Gifts
Did your fiancé surprise you with a gift or handwritten note?
Bring it!
Those moments help tell the complete story of your wedding day.
Keep It All Together
One of my biggest tips is to place everything in a small box or tote bag the night before your wedding.
That way, when I arrive, no one has to run from room to room searching for your earrings or asking where someone put the rings.
Everything is already waiting for me.
While you're relaxing with your bridesmaids and finishing hair and makeup, I'll quietly photograph all of these beautiful details without interrupting your morning.
A Few Things Brides Often Forget
Every wedding is different, but these are the items most commonly left behind:
* All three rings
* Ring boxes
* Invitation envelopes
* Veil
* Perfume bottle
* Vow books
* Loose florals
* Family heirlooms
* Cake topper
* Custom cufflinks
* Special socks
* Tie or bow tie
* Boutonniere
My Favorite Tip
Don't worry about making everything look perfect.
Seriously.
My job is to style these details in a way that feels elegant, timeless, and true to your wedding. You don't need Pinterest-worthy organization—just gather everything together ahead of time.
The little details often become some of the most meaningful photographs in your gallery because they capture the thoughtful touches you spent months planning.
Years from now, they'll remind you not only of how your wedding looked, but how it felt.
And that's exactly why I love photographing them.
