wedding detail flat lay including sleek bridal shoes, invitation suite, and engagement rings

So much goes on in the world of wedding planning, and we all know couples don't need another item on their pre-wedding to do list!

Don't worry, this isn't an extra item for you to check off. Flat lays are really simple, and I'll be taking care of almost every aspect of it on the wedding day!

First off, what even is a flat lay?

wedding detail flat lay with wax seal, tulips, invitation suite — I love the blueberries here! How creative to include something like fruit in your wedding!

Now, I know, you're probably asking what a "flat lay" even is! Don't worry; you're not alone. I use the term a lot, but it's a pretty photography - specific term.

So what is a flat lay, and how do you do one?

A flat lay is a carefully crafted spread of some of your most important wedding details. If done correctly, the photos will tell a story of the day by showcasing all the smallest moments that you put so much energy into.

Flat lay photos are one of the best ways to capture the sentimental pieces of your wedding, to look back on.

I'm here to help prepare you for your wedding flat lay. Follow this guide, and I'll have the best keepsake photos from your wedding day as soon as I arrive at your venue!

Full detail lay including bridal shoes, vow book, invitation suite, rings and ring box, bridal perfume, wedding florals and other decor

Why is this important?

My specialization in wedding photography is creating and capturing moments that tell your story as a couple! The details of your wedding day show how you celebrated bringing two unique people together.

Although I could tell your unique story even without the detail shots, they add so much personality to your wedding day. And also, you've spent so long on all these details that you already have, it would be a shame to look through your wedding gallery and not be able to remember the parts of the day that are so uniquely you.

I'm not saying that this is the most important part of the day; it's not! But flat lay photos capture some of the most authentic moments and memories on your wedding day.

The text you chose, the color scheme beautifully laid out, the rings showcased in the perfect light, and all the extra details that really mean something to you. These are the things that tell your story. These are the things that show the mood, vibe, and vision that you really want to set for your wedding day.

modern bridal shoes with pearls, tulips, ring boxes and something blue — Pearls, tulips, and something blue. Can you get more classic and dreamy than this?!

full invitation suite with a something blue theme

How can I help prepare my flat lay for my photographer?

Luckily, there's not much you actually need to do in order to make sure I have all the tools to capture your details! You already have all the items you'll need, so it's up to me to set it all up.

That being said, there are a few things you can do to help set up run more smoothly. Here are my tips for you:

wedding details with vow books and tulips

Put together a “detail box” in advance!

This is my favorite tip.

A flat lay box is just any kind of box or container that has all of your details ready to go. Gather all the necessary items a week or two in advance, so that you don't have to worry about it at all

When I arrive to the venue on the wedding day, this'll be the first thing I look for. Getting the flat lay done first allows me to get all the items back to their respective places or owners before we start with the getting ready photos.

The more organized we can make this, the less you'll be stressed about where I wandered off to with both rings and everybody's shoes LOL

Bonus Tip: Make your Maid/Man of Honor in charge of this. Once you get everything together, tell the MOH what it is, when I’ll be arriving, and that they should give it to me first thing. I'll get the box back to them as soon as I'm finished with the photos, and the MOH can deliver rings and shoes and perfumes to their rightful owners once more.

Ask your Florist to bring some extra blooms.

Although your florals aren't the focus of your day, adding a few extra blooms will bring your style into the flay lay by showcasing the colors you chose for your day!

Just ask your florist to bring some spares of all the types of flowers you'll be including in your bouquet. Tell them it's for the detail shots! They'll know exactly what to suggest to you!

Include a full invitation suite

This one gets a big section!

bridal and wedding details with gold leaf invitation suite, classic bridal heels, ad pink florals

Often, even if you have all the other details ready for me, there's no invitation suite. While we can do these flat lays without it, the invitations is the first introduction to the mood of your wedding and conveys so much about your personal style!

A full invitation suite may include:

Envelope

Invitation

Photo

Reception Card

Save the Date

RSVP & Envelope

Wedding program

Don't worry if that list seems extensive! These are all the things that COULD be included, but usually it's just the Envelope, Invitation, Save The Date, Photo, and RSVP.

Make sure you pack these with care, because bends and folds are not the vibe ;)

pears, roses, and pearls accent this beautiful flat lay detail shot

Get creative!

I've done my best to make this a comprehensive list for you, but there's no accounting for your own personality and artistic eye!

Include a few pieces in your flat lay box that are specific to you. Did you write notes to each other before the wedding? Do you have ticket stubs that mean something to your relationship? Is there a certain sentimental item that's been passed down that plays a part in the wedding or relationship? Toss it in the box! (Ok, don't toss it - definitely be careful haha.)

Double (or triple) check your packing list!

Scroll down to see all the things I recommend packing in your flat lay box. Remember, these are just suggestions, and not only that, it's a very extensive list! It's completely ok if you just don't have some of these items - pack whatever is applicable to you.

What should I include?

Remember to pack everything carefully. These are vour wedding details, and they mean something to vou and your partner!

Full invitation suite flat lay with white tulips, gold accents, lacy bridal shoes, and blueberries

A full invitation suite (see above for details)
Both rings
Ring boxes
Both partners' pairs of shoes
Jewelry (Necklaces, Bracelets, Hair pieces, Earrings, Cufflinks, etc)
Wedding Perfume/cologne
Bouquet
Boutonniere
Extra florals
Gown
Veil
Tux
Tie
Personalized hangers
Vow Books
Celebratory items (like cigars)
Sentimental items (Watch, handkerchief, etc)
"Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue"

"Something blue" ring box with gorgeous diamond engagement ring inside. Pearl bridal earrings and a timeless classy invitation suite

Remember if you have any questions, ask your photographer! I’m here for YOU! Always feel free to reach out if you have questions or need clarification. That’s *literally* what you’re here for and together we’re going to create the best memories to honor and showcase your wedding day in your gallery.

Reach out to me to talk about your wedding details!

All the love

Ivy

Your guide to the best wedding flay lay ever.