What to Set Aside for Flatlay Photos on Your Wedding Day
- Emma Blue
- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
When you think about wedding photography, you probably picture portraits, first looks, and dance floor moments. But one of the most timeless and artistic parts of your wedding gallery often comes before the ceremony even begins: flatlay photos.
Flatlays are beautifully styled images that capture all the little details you’ve spent months planning—your invitations, jewelry, shoes, florals, and more. These photos showcase your design choices and bring together the aesthetic of your day in one cohesive story. As a Raleigh-based destination wedding photographer, I always encourage my couples to set aside a few meaningful items ahead of time to make sure nothing is missed.
Here’s a checklist of what to prepare for your flatlay photos.
Bridal Details
Your wedding attire and accessories are a big part of your story, and flatlays are the perfect way to showcase them.
Bride’s shoes – Whether they’re heels, flats, or something sparkly, your shoes make for beautiful detail shots.
Bride’s veil – Veils add gorgeous texture and layering for styling.
Bride’s jewelry – Earrings, necklace, bracelets, or hairpieces—each piece deserves to be highlighted.
Wedding rings – Be sure to include all three: engagement ring, wedding band, and groom’s band.
Groom’s Details
The groom’s accessories complete the story of your day, and they’re often overlooked in photos. Adding them into your flatlays balances the gallery.
Groom’s shoes
Cufflinks
Handkerchief or pocket square
Boutonnière
Stationery & Printed Materials
Your invitations and paper goods are more than just functional—they’re a piece of your wedding design.
Save the dates
Full invitation suite (invitation, RSVP card, details card, envelopes)
Programs or menus
Having these items ready lets me style them with florals, rings, and fabrics to create an editorial look.
Florals & Decor
Flowers tie everything together, and they bring life and color to your flatlay photos.
Bouquet and boutonnière (ask your florist for a few loose blooms or greenery for styling)
Wedding favors or décor details
Even small decorative touches—like custom matchboxes, vow books, or personalized favors—make your flatlays unique and meaningful.
Sentimental Items
Flatlays aren’t just about pretty details—they’re about your story. Including a personal heirloom or meaningful token adds an extra layer of connection.
Some ideas:
A locket or handkerchief passed down from family
Love letters or notes you’ve written each other
A special gift exchanged on the wedding morning
Tips for Preparing Your Flatlay Items
Gather everything ahead of time. Place all items in one box or bag so they’re ready when your photographer arrives.
Ask your florist for extras. A few loose blooms or greenery elevate the styling.
Keep them safe. Especially rings and heirlooms—designate a trusted person to hand them to the photographer.
Why Flatlays Matter
Your wedding day is filled with big moments, but it’s also the small details that bring your vision to life. Flatlay photos weave together the aesthetic choices you’ve made—from the shoes on your feet to the invitation your guests first opened. When you look back at your gallery years from now, you’ll be so glad these meaningful details were preserved.
As a Raleigh and destination wedding photographer, I love starting the day with flatlay photography because it sets the tone for telling your story in a thoughtful, intentional way.
If you’re planning your wedding, take a little time to gather these items ahead of time—you’ll thank yourself later when you see them beautifully styled in your gallery.