The Art of Flat Lays


When your wedding morning begins, there’s a quiet, magical pause before the rush of “I dos.” It’s when your dress is still hanging untouched, your bouquet is freshly delivered, and your bridal suite hums with excitement. For me, that’s when the storytelling truly begins — with your flat lay details.

Flat lays are one of the very first things I photograph on a wedding day, and they set the entire tone for your gallery. Think of them as your visual prologue — the opening chapter that ties together your colors, textures, and style before any portraits are even taken.


What Is a Flat Lay?

A flat lay is a beautifully styled arrangement of your wedding details, photographed from above. It’s where I gather all your carefully chosen pieces — both sentimental and aesthetic — and compose them in a way that reflects your overall vision.

These images help weave your full story together, from the invitations that introduced your day to the shoes that carried you down the aisle.


What to Include in Your Flat Lay

Here are some of the essentials (and a few personal touches) that elevate your flat lays from simple to stunning:

The Classics:

  • Your wedding invitations and envelopes (bonus if you include your save-the-date or vow books!)
  • Rings – both wedding bands and engagement ring
  • Shoes – whether they’re sparkling heels or elegant flats, they add texture and style
  • Your veil or hair accessories – soft, airy details photograph beautifully in layers
  • Perfume bottle or cologne – the scent you’ll always associate with your wedding deserves its own spotlight
  • Jewelry – earrings, bracelets, cufflinks, watch, or heirloom pieces
  • Florals – ask your florist for a few extra blooms or greenery for styling accents


Optional but Meaningful Additions:

  • Handwritten love notes or vows
  • Something old, new, borrowed, and blue
  • Wedding programs or menu cards
  • Custom ribbons, wax seals, or textured linens
  • Small items that are uniquely you (a lucky charm, travel token, or even your pet’s tag if they’re part of your story!)



A Photographer’s Tip

Pack your flat lay details together in a small box or tote before the wedding day — that way, when I arrive, everything is ready to go! Include anything you think might be meaningful or photogenic, and I’ll curate and style the rest.


Final Thoughts

Flat lays may seem like small details, but they tell a big part of your story. They’re where your wedding day artistry begins — every texture, bloom, and handwritten note coming together to create a timeless first impression of your day.

Because before the walk down the aisle, before the toasts and the dancing… your story begins here, in the quiet beauty of the details. 🤍


XOXO,

Maddy