A wedding flat lay is a styled arrangement of a couple’s wedding details, photographed from above, often showcasing their personal story, aesthetic, and the day’s theme. It’s a visually striking way to capture meaningful items like stationery, accessories, and other wedding elements. Flat lays are commonly used for storytelling in wedding albums, blogs, and social media.

What Goes into a Wedding Flat Lay Box?

To prepare for creating beautiful flat lays, it’s helpful to have a dedicated box with essential items curated for the purpose. Here’s a breakdown of what typically goes into the box:

1. Key Wedding Details

These are items personal to the couple and their day:

• Stationery Suite: Invitations, RSVP cards, envelopes, menus, and place cards.
• Rings: Engagement and wedding bands (and sometimes a ring box for display).
• Vows: Handwritten vow books, if available.
• Accessories: Bride’s earrings, necklace, bracelet, hairpins, groom’s cufflinks, watch, or tie clip.
• Perfume Bottle: The bride’s chosen scent, if it has an elegant or meaningful design.
• Special Keepsakes: Vintage items, family heirlooms, or mementos like a locket or charm.

2. Supporting Styling Tools

These items add texture, depth, and charm to the flat lay:

• Ring Boxes: Velvet, acrylic, or modern designs in complementary colors.
• Silk Ribbons: In shades that match the wedding palette.
• Wax Seals: Spare ones from the stationery set or loose wax seals.
• Fabric Swatches: Soft textiles like velvet or chiffon to add layers.
• Trays and Dishes: Decorative plates or antique trays to group items.
• Florals and Greenery: Loose flowers, petals, or small sprigs to enhance the layout.
• Stamps: Especially if vintage or custom-designed ones were used in the invitations.
• Calligraphy Details: Tags or quotes written in elegant handwriting.
• Backdrop Options: Neutral or textured surfaces like linen mats, marble tiles, or wood planks.

3. Tools for Assembly

These are practical items that help organize and elevate the flat lay:

• Tweezers: For adjusting small items like petals or jewelry.
• Double-Sided Tape or Museum Wax: To keep rings or small objects in place.
• Scissors: For cutting ribbon or trimming greenery.
• Props: Extra elements like vintage keys, feathers, or personal touches (like a tiny globe for a travel-themed wedding).

Tips for a Polished Flat Lay

• Balance: Aim for symmetry or intentional asymmetry, with a focal point that draws the eye.
• Color Story: Match the styling to the wedding palette for cohesive storytelling.
• Lighting: Use natural, soft light to avoid harsh shadows and bring out details.

Having a well-stocked flat lay box ensures every detail is beautifully presented and tells a unique story. The result? A photograph that becomes a cherished piece of the wedding day’s visual narrative.