A Wedding Flat Lay: What is it?


We've all seen these Pinterest-perfect photos, but did you know there's a name for the beautifully detailed set-up? A wedding flat lay is when the couple collects significant and sentimental items to photograph. A flat lay is a great way to include items you might not ordinarily get photos of, like invitations, close-ups of jewelry, perfume bottles, wedding bands, rosary beads, shoes, or other heirloom items.

Modern black and white wedding stationery displayed on marble surface.

F|O Client: Jenna & Ryan's flat lay close-up from their wedding in Sherman, Texas on 12/2/2023

What to Include in your Wedding Flat Lay?


A flat lay can include details from both partners! It’s not only a bridal flat lay. Here are some items that couples choose to include in their wedding flat lays:


  1. Invitation (No Envelope Needed)
  2. Rings (both partners)
  3. Vow Books
  4. Other jewelry like earrings, bracelet, necklace
  5. Cuff links
  6. Perfume and/or cologne
  7. Lipstick of the day
  8. Heirloom item like hair clip, rosary, etc.
  9. Borrowed / Blue items
  10. Tokens that help to tell the story of the location, if it's important to you (Beach wedding might include sea shells)
  11. Ring box (personalized or otherwise)
  12. Fabric or ribbon to tie in the wedding colors
  13. Floral BLOOMS! Ask your florist for extra stems to really bring the photos to life


Wedding details flatlay with elegant bridal shoes, vintage camera, and decorative frame on rustic wooden surface.

F|O Client: Kat & Will's Wedding in Mansfield, TX on 9/24/2024

Wedding details including a decorative BRIDE sign, newspaper clipping, and bridal accessories arranged on dark surface.

F|O Client: Ally & Tanner's Wedding in Simms, TX on 8/31/2025

Wedding invitations and pearl necklace arranged on rustic wooden surface with dramatic lighting.

F|O Client: Shannon & Stevie's Wedding in Lafayette, LA on 10/28/2023

Wedding details layout featuring white roses, golden rings, and invitation cards on a woven textured background.

F|O Client: Dakota & Zachary's Wedding in Azle, TX on 12/12/2024

Elegant wedding stationery with gold His and Hers vow books and lilac invitation alongside sparkly bridal accessories.

F|O Client: Delaney & Colton's Wedding in Weatherford, TX on 6/15/2024

White bridal shoes, wedding vows books labeled 'His' and 'Hers', and rings displayed on wooden surface.

F|O Client: Reagan & Chase's Wedding in Paris, TX on 7/4/2024

Flat Lay Takeaway


These set-ups are absolutely beautiful, but it's important to remember that each one reflects the couple getting married. While some of my clients provide jewelry, vow books, shoes, and many other pretty little things, the flat lay should be the detailed representation of your wedding day. For this reason, there's NO RULES on this, just suggestions. If you look above, you'll see three different flat lay's for three different Forever October weddings, that range from "lots of things included" to very minimalistic. Each photo provides a glimpse into the dreamy details that make your wedding day truly unique. If you're an F|O client and are needing ideas and input on your wedding flat lay, send us a text or email! If you're not an F|O client, that's okay! Send us an email with "Flat Lay" in the subject line, and we'll be happy to help you, too!


Lots of Love,

Bailey

Elegant wedding invitation with gold foil details displayed alongside pearl bracelet and rings on marble surface.