The Wedding Prep Checklist
Wedding Prep Made Simple: Shoebox Full of Details & Day-Of Essentials
Learn some of our tips and tricks for having everything that you need for your wedding day as well as some helpful bonus tips.
Yes, I always suggest putting all of the little details that you’d like us to take photos of first thing in the morning in a shoebox. It allows you to put everything in one spot the day before, and be able to hand it over for a few minutes while we take photos.
Here’s how to be photo-ready without adding stress.
The Flatlay Shoebox (Your Details, All in One Place)
The easiest way to help your photographer capture your details is to gather everything in one spot ahead of time. We always recommend placing your items into a shoebox or small tote the night before your wedding.
That way, nothing gets forgotten, and everything is ready when we arrive.
Here are some ideas of what to include:
💍 Wedding Details Checklist
Both rings (plus ring boxes, if you have them)
Your flowers: this may seem like a no-brainer, but sometimes people completely forget to bring their bouquets or boutonnieres to their getting ready location
Invitation suite or paper goods: invite, RSVP, details card, envelopes
Vow books or handwritten vows
Jewelry or accessories: earrings, necklace, cufflinks, watch, tie clip, special pins, especially family heirlooms!
Shoes
Perfume or cologne
Hair pieces, veil, or other wearable details
Extra florals or loose blooms (if available)
Special keepsakes: heirlooms, charms, coins, photos, letters, your something new, something borrowed, and something blue, etc.
Any custom items: hangers, signage, favors, embroidered pieces, flower girl or ring bearer accessories
There’s no “right” amount. Bring what feels meaningful to you. Even a few thoughtfully chosen items can create beautiful storytelling images. If you’re having an intimate, simple ceremony, perhaps just your rings will make for the perfect images.
Your Wedding Day Emergency Kit
Even the most carefully planned days benefit from a small just-in-case kit. Whether you assemble this yourself or assign it to someone in your wedding party, having these items nearby can be a lifesaver.
Here’s a simple list to get you started:
🧷 Emergency Kit Essentials
Water Bottles: it’s so important to stay hydrated!
Safety pins: multiple sizes
Fashion tape or fashion adhesive
Band-aids & blister pads (I’ve even seen numbing spray for when your feet start to hurt)
Tissues
Deodorant
Lip balm or lipstick
Hair spray & bobby pins
Small sewing kit
Stain remover pen
Breath mints
Hand wipes
Clear umbrellas (we usually carry a few, but not enough for everyone)
Phone charger or portable battery
If you wear makeup, consider packing a few touch-up products. If you’re in formalwear, having a lint roller and wrinkle spray can be incredibly helpful.
Small things. Big peace of mind.
Bonus Tips
Start getting ready a little earlier than planned. Hair and makeup often run over, and having buffer time keeps the day relaxed.
Share your general timeline with your wedding party so everyone knows where they should be and when.
Pack everything the night before if you’re getting ready away from home: outfits, accessories, paperwork, and your detail box.
Let family members know ahead of time to be available for photos right after the ceremony. A quick group text works wonders.
A Gentle Reminder
Your wedding day isn’t about perfection.
It’s about connection. It’s about laughter, quiet moments, happy tears, and celebrating with the people you love most.
We’re there to capture the memories—but you’re there to live them.
So take a breath. Hold hands. Steal a quiet moment together. The magic happens naturally when you allow yourself to be present.
And if you ever have questions while planning, we’re always happy to help.
