Hey friend! If you’re here, you’re probably knee-deep in the exciting whirlwind of wedding planning, right? Well, I’ll get right to it. Let’s talk about something super fun – DETAILS! Not the address of your venue, I’ve got that already. I’m talking about what to bring for your detail flatlay. You may be wondering what a flatlay is – or maybe you’ve seen flatlays everywhere on your Pinterest feed and you just aren’t sure what to bring. Either way, I’ve got you covered.

A flatlay is a carefully arranged and visually appealing composition of various items, elements, and heirlooms laid out on a flat surface and captured from an overhead perspective. This image incorporates all the special and important details of your wedding day. It’s basically like a portrait of your entire wedding day wrapped up into one photo – it showcases your story, style, and overall vibe of your wedding! These are always SO fun to do because they’re all so incredibly unique, and you can incorporate just about anything into them to add a personalized touch. 

I’ve got the lowdown on what to bring to make sure your pics are as Insta-worthy as your love story. From that killer pair of shoes to your grandma’s vintage brooch, we’re about to dive into the coolest checklist ever. So, grab your checklist and let’s make sure your wedding album is nothing short of a masterpiece. Let’s dive in!!!

Step One:

Grab a box. It can be a shoe box, a cardboard box from an old package, a plastic bin, even a personalized box just for your wedding day if you’re boogie. 😉 This is what is going to hold all of your smaller details in one place and make sure nothing gets lost. 95 percent of the time, it’ll also be the first thing your photographer asks for when they show up at your wedding!

The flatlay is typically the first thing to be photographed, along with the dress and some venue details.

The Basics:

Here’s a list of basic things that a lot of couples tend to bring as a part of their flatlay:

• Save the date / invitation / stationary
• Vow books
• Rings
• Ring box
• Jewelry (necklaces, earrings, bracelets, watches, etc.)
• Shoes

Get Personal

Your wedding is truly going to be one of a kind. Bringing elements that are meaningful and unique to you is always encouraged. Here are some things to consider:

Perfume + Cologne: There’s a strong link between scent and memory. I won’t bore you with the details (I’m also not a scientist), but scent has a unique ability to evoke emotions and trigger memories associated with specific events or experiences. It’s a great addition to your flatlay. Pro tip: right before you walk down the isle, spray your veil or cape with your perfume. Your guests will be able to smell it as you pass them!

Heirlooms: Your grandma’s favorite broach, your grandpa’s pocket watch, the hair pin your mom wore on her wedding day, the list goes on. Family heirlooms and artifacts add an extra special touch to your flatlay, and make it all the more meaningful.

Somethings: Old, new, borrowed, and blue.

Cufflinks & Ties: Because the groom’s details deserve just as much attention! Bolo ties, bowties, personalized cufflinks – all the things that make your groom look and feel his absolute best.

Newlywed Times / The Wedding Post: These personalized newspapers have been on the rise and for good reason!! They’re 100% customizable and such a fun addition to have at your wedding. Get them made by a vendor or find a template online and turn it into a date!!

Pro tip: Reach out to your florist in advance to request a few scrap florals and foliage for your flatlay. It’s the perfect way to incorporate the flowers and greenery in your bouquet and adds a little extra spice to the final image!

Well, my friend – you’ve made it to the end. Before I give you the full list, I want you to remember this: just like your wedding day, your flatlay should be a reflection of you and your love story. Incorporate only what you want and leave the rest – it can truly be as simple or extravagant as you want it to be! But whatever you do, make sure you’ve got it all in one place. Your photographer will thank you, trust me. 😉

Full Detail List:

• Save the date / invitations / stationary / wax seals
• Rings
• Ring box
• Earrings / Necklace / Bracelet / Watch
• Your something old, new, borrowed, blue
• Vow books  
• Veil / Cape
• Programs 
• Menus
• Perfume / cologne
• Shoes (bride and groom)
• Heirlooms
• Fun sunglasses
• Airplane tickets / hotel room keys
• Passports (for those international weddings)
• Maps
• Extra Florals / Foliage

If you’re ready for an even more personalized experience, I’m so ready to hear from you!

Until next time, friend.

xo, Casey