How to Create the Perfect Wedding Detail Box for Your Photographer
When your wedding morning arrives, there’s so much excitement in the air—the getting-ready playlist, your closest people around you, maybe a mimosa in hand. But in all the happy chaos, it’s surprisingly easy to forget the little items that help tell the full story of your day. YES, I have driven 1.5 hour though Los Angels traffic because a bride forgot a veil…
That’s where a wedding detail box comes in. This simple prep step ensures your photographer has everything they need to create those beautiful flat lay and detail photos you see in magazines and Pinterest boards—without scrambling to track them down on the wedding morning.
Even if you want your details and items captured in a more photojournalistic way and you are forgoing a traditional flat lay, you still need this box! Here’s everything to include for the perfect detail box, so your love story is captured in all its meaningful, styled glory.
Must-Have Wedding Detail Items
These are the key pieces that almost every photographer loves to have for flat lays:
Invitation suite – Bring the full set: invitation, RSVP card, details card, envelopes, and any envelope liners.
Save the date – Perfect for adding to your paper story.
Wedding rings – All bands and engagement ring (don’t forget to clean them beforehand!).
Ring box or dish – Adds elegance and structure to the layout.
Vow books – Especially if they’re custom or handwritten.
Shoes – Bride, groom, or both.
Jewelry – Earrings, necklace, bracelet, cufflinks, watch—anything you’ll wear that day.
Perfume or cologne – A bottle you love adds personality to your photos.
Bouquet – Or ask your florist for a few loose blooms.
Boutonnière – Especially if it matches your bouquet.
Veil or hair accessories – Combs, pins, tiaras—these can make flat lays dreamy.
Optional Extras for More Styled Flat Lays
Want that elevated, editorial look? Add these items for more depth and texture:
Ribbon or fabric swatches in your wedding colors.
Custom wax seals or a seal stamp.
Vintage stamps or postage.
Small trays or dishes for displaying rings or jewelry.
Handwritten notes or cards exchanged before the ceremony.
Ceremony program, menu cards, or name place cards.
Keepsake box for sentimental treasures.
Theme-based props – For example, a compass for a travel-themed wedding, shells for a beach wedding, or antique keys for a vintage touch.
Sentimental & Personal Touches
These make your flat lays truly yours:
Family heirlooms – A locket, brooch, or handkerchief.
Something old, new, borrowed, and blue – A sweet nod to tradition.
Special gifts exchanged that morning – Wrapped or unwrapped.
Letters or cards from each other – Whether sealed or open.
Favorite book or meaningful quote card – Adds personality.
Map of your wedding location – Especially for destination weddings.
Small keepsakes from your proposal story – Tickets, pressed flowers, or souvenirs.
Pro Tip: Pack It Early
A few days before your wedding, gather all your detail items into a small box, tote, or zippered pouch. On your wedding morning, hand it to your photographer (or your second shooter) as soon as they arrive. That way, we can jump right into styling without interrupting your time with friends and family—and nothing gets left behind.
Your wedding details tell a story that’s entirely yours. From the invitation you chose together to the earrings passed down from your grandmother, these little pieces connect your past, present, and future. With a thoughtfully prepared detail box, your photographer can capture that story beautifully, and you’ll have those memories preserved for decades to come.
