What is a flat lay?

In this article, I’ll explain what a wedding flat lay is and share a few tips to help you prepare for this special photo. I’ll also explore ideas for separate flat lays for the groom and bride, along with 20 items ideas to include helping make your flat lay truly unique.

A Wedding Flat Lay is a thoughtfully styled photograph that showcases your wedding invitations and other meaningful accessories from your big day.

Flat lays beautifully capture the small, often overlooked details of your wedding day—the little things like the perfume or jewelry you wore to complete your look. Wedding flat lays can make a stunning addition to your wedding gallery!

A few Tips: To capture the perfect flat lay, it’s important to prepare everything ahead of time so your photographer or wedding planner can arrange it as soon as they arrive. This should be done before your getting-ready photos, as your photographer will need access to your accessories like jewelry, headpieces, and other meaningful items. Ask your florist to bring extra loose flowers, and make sure they’re delivered before the photographer or planner begins styling the flat lay. Be sure to include personal items that reflect your unique love story to make your flat lay truly one-of-a-kind and meaningful!

You can create separate flat lays for the bride and groom!

While less common, this approach is a fun way to give each partner the opportunity to showcase their personal wedding details. The bride can feature her heels, necklace, earrings, ring, flowers, and perfume, while the groom can highlight his shoes, cufflinks, ring, boutonnière, cologne, tie, and watch. You do not have to do this, but this is an option for those who want both shown!

20 items that you can include for a personalized flat lay:

  1. Handwritten love notes

  2. Vow books

  3. Engagement rings and wedding bands

  4. Ring dish or ring box

  5. Flower stems

  6. Bouquet or boutonniere

  7. Wedding shoes

  8. Garter

  9. Jewelry (necklaces, earrings, watch, bracelets)

  10. Wedding hair accessories (hair comb, headpiece, hairband)

  11. Veil

  12. Cufflinks

  13. Suspenders or belt

  14. Socks

  15. Ties

  16. Custom dress hanger

  17. Perfume bottles

  18. Shaving brush

  19. Vintage family photographs

  20. Heirloom pieces (e.g., antique hand mirror, comb, embroidered handkerchief, pocket watch, flask)

Why Wedding Flat Lays Matter

Okay, so you don’t have to do a flat lay, but if you’re thinking about it, trust me—it’s a super fun and easy way to capture the little details of your big day! Your photographer usually takes care of this while you're getting ready, and it can be as simple or as elegant as you want. Just let your photographer know ahead of time if you’re wanting to do this! Plus, it’s not just a beautiful photo; it’s a timeless keepsake that helps you relive all those sweet, special moments long after the wedding.

Thanks for reading!!

If you’re excited to create romantic and memorable bridal photos, feel free to reach out! I’d love to answer any questions or help you book your session to capture this special moment in your lives.
You can reach me through email, social media, or you can fill out in inquiry form here:
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Hannah1noelle@gmail.com
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