What to Include in Your Detail Box

Don’t Forget the Details!

You’ve spent so much time choosing every little detail for your wedding day—from the perfect shade of your flowers to the texture of your vow books. And I want to make sure none of it gets forgotten or left behind (yes, even the dress—ask me sometime about the time it almost didn’t make it to Napa 😅).

One of the easiest ways to keep everything organized is to put all your important details into a "wedding morning details box or bag." I recommend packing it up ahead of time. This saves time, reduces stress, and makes sure your photographer (hi, that’s me!) has everything ready to photograph the moment I arrive. I usually start the day by capturing those special little things—before the getting-ready chaos even begins!

What’s a “Flat Lay,” Anyway?

A flat lay is a beautifully styled photo of your wedding details arranged together. Your invitation suite, rings, shoes, jewelry, perfume, and more - all laid out like a little magazine spread. It’s a gorgeous way to capture the overall aesthetic of your day before the events unfold. These photos often kick off your gallery, setting the tone and giving all those carefully chosen pieces their moment to shine.

Don’t Forget the Florals

One thing that can really elevate a flat lay? Florals! I always encourage couples to ask their florist for some floral scraps. Most florists will know exactly what you mean and are more than happy to help. They usually have leftover bits from designing your bouquet or centerpieces. These little touches make a big difference and help tie everything together beautifully.

Including Natural Surroundings & Local Flair

You chose your venue for a reason, maybe it’s the coastal charm of Monterey, the deep greens of the redwoods, or the vintage character of a historic hotel. I always look for ways to weave those elements into your detail photos. It helps tell the full story of your day and gives your gallery a real sense of place.

I especially love incorporating little touches from your venue or getting ready space—like that time I hung the bride’s dress in front of vibrant red wall art that just screamed Cannery Row. It added such a unique, local flair to the gallery. Little moments like that are too good not to include!

What to Include in Your Detail Box:

Here’s a quick checklist to help you gather all the pretty (and meaningful) things:

• Engagement ring & wedding bands (all together please!)
• Invitation suite (save-the-date, invite, envelopes, RSVP, etc.)
• Shoes
• Jewelry
• Hair accessories, veil, or flower crown
• Vow books
• Ring box
• Something old/new/borrowed/blue
• Handkerchiefs or sentimental items
• Perfume or cologne
• Custom jacket or shawl
• Outfit changes
• Socks, ties, bowties, belts, suspenders
• Cufflinks or watches
• Wedding party gifts (especially if they’ll be worn the day of!)
• Anything meaningful or personal you’d want photographed
• 
  

Pro tip: Get your engagement ring cleaned or polished before the big day. It makes a big difference in close-up shots!

Don’t Forget the Guys (or the Pets!)

Grooms, yes, you too! I’ve seen some seriously stylish details, from custom suit linings and embroidered suspenders to vintage watches and heirloom cufflinks, and I love photographing them. Just like the bride’s accessories, these thoughtful pieces deserve their moment.

And if your dog (or cat, or rabbit—yes, please) is part of the day, I’m absolutely including them in the story. I adore animals and will try to pet every single one. If they have a cute outfit or special accessory, pop it in the details box too, so I can photograph it before the ceremony, and then get plenty of sweet shots of them in action, of course.🐾

Bonus Tip: Credit Your vendors

If you’ve chosen special pieces from artists or small businesses, whether it's your dress designer, jeweler, or invitation calligrapher, please send your photographer their names or Instagram handles. I’ll happily give them a shout-out when I share your photos. You have incredible taste, and those artists deserve to be celebrated too!