Nail Your Flat Lay Photos, Vendor Spotlight: The Libbys Photo and Films

As a wedding planner, one of the most overlooked—but truly stunning—photo opportunities on your wedding day is the flat lay. These styled shots of your details—like your invitation suite, rings, accessories, and florals—help tell the full story of your day. And when they’re done right, they can be just as meaningful as the portraits and ceremony shots.

To help your photographer capture those Pinterest-worthy flat lays, a little planning ahead goes a long way. Here are my top tips (plus a packing list!) to make sure you’re fully prepared.

Flat Lay Tips: From A Local Vendor Amanda at The Libbys:

“When it comes to styling your flat lay, we recommend setting aside any items that hold personal significance—your wedding rings, two copies of your invitation suite, family heirlooms, a welcome bag (perfect for its own flat lay!), your veil, or any textures that reflect your wedding design or setting. We bring a variety of color boards and risers to elevate the details, and we love incorporating loose floral stems from your florist. Our approach is to only include elements that are meaningful to you—we skip the filler. By gathering these items ahead of time, we can start styling as soon as we arrive without disrupting your getting-ready flow.”

Flat Lay Advice from Olive and Co.

1. Communicate With Your Photographer
Let them know you’d love detail shots and flat lays. Every photographer has their own approach—some bring styling mats, props, or ring boxes, while others prefer to work with what’s on hand. A quick chat can ensure you’re on the same page.

2. Gather Your Items Ahead of Time
Designate a box or bag for your “flat lay kit” and have it ready for the photographer. Assign a bridesmaid or your planner to hand it over the morning of the wedding so your photographer doesn’t have to go searching.

3. Include Florals
Ask your florist to deliver a few loose blooms or greenery with your bouquet. These tiny additions elevate the entire look of a flat lay and help tie it to the rest of your wedding design.

4. Keep Your Details Clean and Photo-Ready
Wipe down your shoes, take stickers off the soles, and remove any smudges from jewelry or glasses. Small details matter when they’re being photographed up close.

5. Think in Layers and Texture
If you’re bringing ribbon, fabric swatches, or special linens, these add softness and dimension to a flat lay. They can help your photographer build a cohesive and visually interesting composition.

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Flat Lay Packing List: What to Bring

Here’s what I recommend gathering for your flat lay photos:

• Invitation suite (including envelope, RSVP card, and any other paper goods)
• Rings (all three: engagement + both wedding bands)
• Ring box (a velvet or custom one looks great in photos)
• Shoes
• Veil or hairpiece
• Jewelry
• Perfume bottle
• Vow books
• Custom items (like a wax seal, monogrammed hanger, or meaningful trinket)
• Loose florals (ask your florist for extras)
• Ribbon or fabric swatches (especially if they match your wedding colors)
• Something old, new, borrowed, and blue

Pro tip: If your partner has unique items like cufflinks, a watch, tie, or handwritten note, include those too—they make a great his/hers side-by-side flat lay.

Final Thoughts:

Flat lays are more than pretty pictures—they’re a visual time capsule of your wedding day. A little prep ensures your photographer can capture the essence of your celebration without stress or delays. Trust me, you’ll be glad you took the extra time when you see those dreamy detail shots in your gallery.

Need help styling or sourcing beautiful flat lay elements? That’s what I’m here for—let’s make your wedding album unforgettable from the very first photo.