The other day, one of my brides asked me what she should include in her wedding flat lay. It made me realize this is probably a question many couples have! So, I thought I’d share some tips. Flat lays are a beautiful way to start your wedding album and set the tone for your big day. Bonus for me: it’s a fun, creative warm-up that gets me ready for the day ahead! 😊
First off, flat lays aren’t just for brides—they’re for both of you! Here’s a list of items that couples often include in their wedding flat lays:
- Invitations (bring extras if they’re double-sided) with envelopes—especially if there’s unique calligraphy or fun designs.
- Shoes or fun socks
- Vow books
- Rings—all three of them
- Jewelry like earrings, bracelets, or cuff links
- Perfume and cologne bottles
- Gifted items like liquor or wedding party presents
- Lipstick you’re wearing that day
- Heirlooms such as a hairpin or special trinket
- “Something borrowed” or “something blue” items
- Personalized details like cocktail napkins, drink stirrers, or guest favors
- Tokens that represent your location, like seashells for a beach wedding
- Ring box (bonus points if it’s personalized!)
- Fabric or ribbon that matches your wedding colors or bridesmaids' dresses
- Flowers! Ask your florist for a few blooms or greenery to elevate the look.
I usually style flat lays on a clean background using my styling mats, which I bring to every wedding. I’ll choose a mat that matches your color scheme, or sometimes I’ll get creative with a veil overlay for a lace or sheer detail. If there’s something unique at your venue—like a patterned floor, textured sofa, or printed tablecloth—I may use that as a background instead. It’s all about capturing your wedding theme and your personalities in these little details!
Of course, you don’t have to include any of these—it’s entirely up to you! But if you love the idea, gather everything into a box or bag so it’s organized and easy to access. Keep in mind that setting up flat lays typically takes about 30 minutes, so be sure to plan for that in your timeline.
So, what would you include in your wedding flat lay? If you’re new to the idea, think of it as a special way to highlight items that might not otherwise get photographed, like your invitations or heirloom pieces. Let me know what you’re planning—I’d love to help make it uniquely you!
