There’s a lot to think about on your wedding day — but digging through bags to find blotting paper or realizing you forgot the rings for detail shots shouldn’t be one of them. This guide will help ensure you’re fully packed, prepared, and photo-ready with everything in its place and someone designated to help keep it all running smoothly.
What to Pack for You
These are the items I recommend having nearby throughout the day to help you stay comfortable and fresh:
- Comfy walking shoes or flip-flops
- Touch-up makeup (powder, blotting sheets, lipstick/gloss)
- Tylenol or ibuprofen
- Blister band-aids
- Tide-to-go stick or stain remover wipes
- Tissues
- Snacks and a water bottle
- Extra earring backs or fashion tape
- Deodorant
- Portable fan (especially for summer weddings)
- Phone charger or portable battery
What to Pack for Your Photographer
To make the most of your flat lays and detail photos, gather the following items in a box or pouch ahead of time and place them in the getting-ready space:
- Full invitation suite (2 copies if possible, unfolded and uncreased)
- Any additional stationery (menus, RSVP cards, save-the-dates, etc.)
- All 3 rings (engagement + both wedding bands)
- Ring box (especially if you’re using a custom one)
- Perfume bottle
- Jewelry
- Shoes
- Veil or hair accessories
- Vow books
- Heirloom items (letters, handkerchiefs, special keepsakes)
- Extra styling elements like ribbons, wax seals, fabric swatches, or loose floral stems
Tip: Ask your florist to include 4–8 extra blooms for styling — it elevates the whole detail set!
A Note About Your Dress
Your gown will be one of the most photographed items of the day, so here are a few tips to make sure it’s ready for its moment:
- Keep it in the garment bag until it’s time to hang or wear — this helps protect it from dust, wrinkles, or accidents.
- Plan time for steaming or touch-ups in the morning. Wrinkles show up fast in natural light and can be difficult to edit out.
- If you want that beautiful dress-hanging photo, don’t forget to bring a nice hanger — wood, velvet, or custom hangers photograph much better than plastic or wire ones.
- Life hack: If your dress has a row of small buttons, bring a crochet hook — it makes getting dressed so much easier and saves your hands from frustration!
Having these small details prepped ahead of time will make your gallery even more beautiful and editorial-feeling.
Creating a Flat Lay Box or Styling Kit
Think of this as your “photo styling toolkit.” Using a small box, pouch, or clear bag, organize all the detail items you want photographed. Label it or let your planner, MOH, or mom know where it is so I can access it easily when I arrive. I have seen lots of brides use a shoebox, and it has worked out great. It doesn’t need to be anything fancy.
Assigning Someone to Be in Charge
Designate one person — usually a maid of honor, planner, or family member — to:
- Know where your emergency kit is
- Help gather small items or people when needed
- Make sure your flat lay kit is ready before I arrive and that we know exactly where it is at
Having one point person makes the day feel smoother and ensures I can get everything documented quickly and beautifully without needing to interrupt you.
Downloadable Checklist
If you’re a list person (I very much am), I’ve created a printable checklist you can keep on your phone or share with your family and wedding party.
📋 [Download the Wedding Day Packing Checklist → Coming Soon]
Final Thoughts
Try to prep and pack these items at the beginning of your wedding week — that way, you’re not scrambling the night before or forgetting something small but important.
Feel free to reference this post as you go. A little thoughtful packing goes a long way in making your day feel smooth, present, and photo-ready from start to finish.
And most importantly, don’t forget to take a deep breath, smile, and let the excitement soak in. You’re about to marry your best friend, and that’s the most exciting part of it all!
