The Ultimate Flat Lay Checklist for Your Wedding Day

When it comes to wedding photography, flat lays are like the quiet storytellers of your day—beautifully arranged vignettes that capture your style, color palette, and personal details in one frame. They’re those swoon-worthy photos of your invitation suite, jewelry, florals, and keepsakes, all thoughtfully styled to feel both curated and effortless.

A well-planned flat lay can elevate your wedding gallery, and the key to achieving that magic is packing the right items ahead of time. This little bit of preparation gives your photographer everything they need to create a layout that feels cohesive, personal, and editorial-worthy.

Below is a checklist of must-haves and styling tips for your wedding flat lay, perfect for the bride who wants her details captured in all their glory.

1. Textures That Tell a Story

Bring materials that add depth and dimension: soft linen, delicate chiffon, rustic wood boards, sleek marble slabs, or aged parchment paper. These layers create a visual backdrop that makes your stationery pop—especially your wedding invitation, RSVP card, and save-the-date.

2. Florals & Greenery

Pull in flowers that match your wedding color palette. Even just a few loose blooms from your bouquet or some greenery from your arrangements can set the mood instantly. Think of them as the brushstrokes that tie your flat lay to your overall wedding aesthetic.

3. Sentimental Touches

Add something personal that’s uniquely you—a handwritten note, wax seal, heirloom locket, vintage watch, silk scarf, your wedding shoes, or even a cigar if it’s part of your story. These details bring authenticity and soul to your photos, making them more than just pretty—they become yours.

4. Play with Height

Give your flat lay dimension by layering elements. Use ring boxes, ribbon spools, or stacks of stationery to create subtle height variations. This makes the photo feel more dynamic and visually interesting.

5. Light-Catching Accents

Add a touch of reflection and sparkle with metallic or glass pieces—a mirror tray, vintage silver serving dish, or even a crystal glass. These not only catch the light beautifully but also add a hint of luxury.

6. A Sense of Movement

Even in a still photograph, movement can be suggested. Flowing silk ribbons, a softly draped fabric, or the artful pour of champagne can bring a sense of life and energy to your layout.

7. Finishing Details

Think beyond the obvious—your favorite perfume bottle, delicate jewelry, handwritten calligraphy, vintage stamps, lace trim, or even edible accents like sliced citrus for a fresh pop of color. Each piece should contribute to the mood and personality of the shot.

Pro Tip for Brides:

Gather these items before your wedding day and keep them in a labeled box or pouch. Give it to your wedding planner or coordinator, who can pass it along to your photographer upon arrival. This ensures they can style your flat lay while you’re getting ready, capturing every beautiful detail without missing a thing.

Flat lays are more than just ‘detail shots’—they’re a curated reflection of who you are as individuals and a beautiful collection of what you cherish about one another, all woven together to tell your love story. With a little preparation and intentional styling, they’ll become some of the most timeless images from your wedding day.

📸 Photographer: @cynthiayangcaptures

B + A Wedding, 2023