How to Prep for Your Flat Lay Photos
What Is a Flat Lay, Anyway?
Flat lays are those beautifully styled detail shots you see at the start of your gallery—the ones with your rings, invitation suite, shoes, and all the tiny personal elements that help tell the full story of your day. They set the tone for your wedding photos and preserve the little things you chose with care.
And the best part? A little prep ahead of time makes a huge difference.
The Flat Lay Checklist
Must-Haves:
Both wedding bands + engagement ring ☑️
Full invitation suite (invite, RSVP card, envelope, etc.) ☑️
A clean envelope (with stamps!) for styling ☑️
Vow books (if using) ☑️
Jewelry you’ll be wearing ☑️
Perfume/cologne bottle ☑️
Shoes ☑️
Flat lay florals* ☑️
Nice-to-Haves:
☑️ Any special fabric (ribbon, silk, heirloom lace)
☑️ Hair accessories
☑️ A meaningful card or letter
☑️ Anything customized or personalized
☑️ Ring box (a cute one is always a win!)
☑️ After party items
☑️ Your something borrowed, something blue
💐 Don’t Forget the Florals
Loose blooms and single stems are the unsung heroes of flat lay photos. They help tie your details into the overall vibe of your day—especially your floral design and color palette. A single ranunculus, a few sprigs of greenery, or a snippet of your bouquet ribbon can take a flat lay from pretty to wow.
What to do:
Ask your florist ahead of time if they can include a few loose flowers and greenery when delivering your bouquet. Most are more than happy to help—just let them know it's for detail photos and I’ll take it from there.
PRO TIP:
Pack all your flat lay items in a small box or tote and designate someone (like a bridesmaid or planner) to have it ready when I arrive. That way, you can keep enjoying your morning without scrambling to gather things.
What I’ll Bring to Style Your Flat Lays
Don’t stress if you’re not packing ribbon or fancy trays—I’ll come prepared. In my styling kit, I typically bring:
- Neutral and textured styling mats
- A variety of ring boxes and small trays
- Soft styling fabrics in timeless tones
- Acrylic blocks to add dimension/layers
These pieces help create polished, editorial-style images that still feel like you. I’ll always prioritize using your own details first and then style around them with pieces that complement the overall feel of your day.
Flat lays are just one small piece of your day, but they’re one of my favorite ways to ease into the storytelling. Questions about what to include? You know where to find me!