What to Pack for a Wedding Day Flatlay

What to Pack for a Wedding Day Flatlay: The Ultimate Guide

Flatlay photography is one of the most timeless and elegant ways to document the details of a wedding day. It captures the aesthetic, vibe, and personality of the couple through carefully curated items—often overlooked but deeply meaningful. Whether you're a bride, planner, or photographer, having the right items on hand is key to creating a cohesive, beautiful flatlay that tells the full story.

Here’s a comprehensive list of what to pack for a wedding day flatlay so you're fully prepared.

📸 First, What Is a Flatlay?

A flatlay is a styled photo taken from above, often featuring wedding details like stationery, rings, accessories, and other curated items. These shots are essential for capturing the finer, sentimental elements of the day—things that might not otherwise get their moment in the spotlight.

👜 The Wedding Day Flatlay Kit: What to Pack

1. The Invitation Suite

  • Full printed invitation (plus an extra in case of creases or smudges)

  • RSVP card, details card, envelopes

  • Wax seals, custom stamps, envelope liners

Pro tip: Bring extras of each so the photographer can layer and style them creatively.

2. Rings

  • Engagement ring

  • Both wedding bands

  • Ring boxes (classic velvet, acrylic, or custom monogrammed)

Pro tip: A beautiful ring box can elevate the entire flatlay.

3. Florals

  • A few loose blooms and greenery from the florist

  • Petite boutonnières or a clipped stem from the bridal bouquet

Pro tip: Ask your florist to set aside “styling flowers” specifically for detail shots.

4. Bride’s Accessories

  • Shoes

  • Jewelry (earrings, necklace, bracelet)

  • Hairpieces or veil

  • Perfume bottle

  • Garter (if wearing one)

  • Vow book or personal notes

Pro tip: Choose accessories that reflect your wedding aesthetic and colors.

5. Groom’s Accessories

  • Cufflinks

  • Tie or bowtie

  • Watch

  • Shoes

  • Boutonnière

  • Pocket square

  • Cologne bottle

Pro tip: These items are often forgotten—include them to round out the story.

6. Heirlooms & Personal Touches

  • Family handkerchief

  • Vintage jewelry

  • Photos or mementos

  • Monogrammed items

  • Lucky charm or token

Pro tip: These unique pieces make the flatlay more meaningful and personal.

7. Styling Tools (For the Photographer or Planner)

  • Neutral or textured styling boards

  • Ribbon spools in wedding colors

  • Ring dishes or trays

  • Tweezers (to move delicate items without smudging)

  • Double-sided tape or museum wax (to hold rings or small items in place)

  • Scissors (gold or vintage style)

  • Calligraphy name cards or paper scraps for layering

  • Soft cloth to wipe smudges or dust

🌈 Optional but Beautiful Additions

  • Custom matchbooks

  • Custom coasters or cocktail napkins

  • Envelope addressing calligraphy

  • Venue illustrations or watercolor elements

💡 Tips for a Successful Flatlay Session

  • Organize ahead of time: Pack everything in a labeled box or pouch so it’s ready for the photographer.

  • Communicate with your photographer: Let them know what items are important to you.

  • Allow time: Schedule time in the morning for the photographer to work on the flatlay without being rushed.

📦 Flatlay Packing Checklist

✅ Invitation suite
✅ Rings + ring boxes
✅ Florals (loose)
✅ Accessories (bride + groom)
✅ Heirlooms
✅ Vow books
✅ Styling tools
✅ Personal touches

Final Thoughts

Your wedding day details deserve just as much love as your portraits and ceremony. A well-styled flatlay captures the essence of your day in a single frame—romantic, timeless, and entirely you. With the right preparation, your flatlay will become one of your favorite keepsakes.

Whether you're a photographer preparing a styling kit or a couple packing for the big day, use this guide to make sure you don’t miss a single beautiful detail.







liz chan