Years of being a wedding photographer, I have seen trends come and go. But I love a good wedding flat lay so this is one I don’t want to see go. Don’t know what it is? I guarantee you do! You probably have seen them but didn’t know the term. In this post, I’m going to dive into this word we, in the wedding industry, throw around like everyone should know what it means and what to include in them.
**Side note: can we take a moment for this hand-painted, bespoke stationery suite above? Victoria Jameson Design is an amazingly talented artist who I cannot recommend enough. Her work is gorgeous and she is so fun and easy to work with!! Whether you’re getting married in Santorini or here in Austin, TX, I highly recommend reaching out to her because she is phenomenal!**
Wedding Flat Lay
A flat lay is a styling of wedding details, such as wedding invitations, rings, bridal accessories, flowers, vow books, and other special items arranged on a flat surface. They are a form of visual storytelling, allowing couples to showcase the vibe of their wedding.
Let your littlest of details shine!
What to Include in a Flat Lay
Wedding stationery
- invitations
- save-the-date
- RSVP cards
- menu
- reception card
- weekend events
- directions/map
- envelope
Extra florals (to incorporate your wedding flowers and colors)
Wedding accessories
- Wedding rings
- veil
- shoes
- handkerchiefs
- watch
- garter
- jewelry
- cufflinks
- perfum
- vow books
- ring box
Anything else personal, sentimental, or has any religious or cultural significance
Why are Flat Lays Important?
It’s a way to capture the smallest and often overlooked details that make a wedding day special. Oftentimes, stationery and florals are thrown out or lost, and jewelry and heirlooms put away, never to be worn again. A wedding flat lay is a way to preserve those memories and look without fearing that you’ll lose, break, or have to find a way to store those items.
How Much Time Should You Allot Your Photographer for Details?
I highly recommend allotting one full hour to dedicate to flat lays. They require a lot of attention to detail, laying everything out meticulously, rearranging, and taking multiple shots to achieve the perfect and desired look.
However, if your list of details is not long and you just want a few items photographed, thirty minutes is enough time. During our timeline consultation, we can discuss what you’re wanting and how much time I’ll need to photograph your details.
Are These a Requirement?
Not at all! Although, as wedding photographers and vendors, we love them and they’re beautiful, they are absolutely not mandatory. There is no pressure whatsoever!!! But we are absolutely here for them if you decide you want them!
Let’s Capture your Details (and Wedding Day)!
As an Austin Wedding Photographer, I want to be a part of your celebration – from the smallest of details, (i.e. wedding flat lay), to your biggest of moments, like your first kiss! Connect with me – I’d love to hear all about you as a couple and all of your wedding dreams!