25 Items to Add to Your Flat Lay Wedding Photos
Flat lay photos are all about capturing the details that make your wedding day uniquely yours.
25 Creative Items to Include in Your Flat Lay Wedding Photos
Flat lay photos are all about capturing the details that make your wedding day uniquely yours. They highlight the smaller, often overlooked elements—like your carefully chosen wedding invitations, heirloom jewelry, or hand-tied bouquet ribbons—that might otherwise fade into the background of larger moments, such as walking down the aisle or sharing your first dance. These images add depth and personality to your wedding gallery, preserving the thoughtful, personal touches you’ve spent months planning and curating.
But how do you create flat lays that truly stand out and tell your story? From selecting the right props to considering lighting and composition, there are so many ways to elevate these shots. Whether it’s incorporating meaningful objects or experimenting with textures and colors, the possibilities are endless. To help you out, here are 25 Items to Add to Your Flat Lay Wedding Photos.
Before we get started, we’d love to introduce ourselves! As a small business wedding venue, we’ve had the honor of hosting hundreds of weddings and special celebrations over the years. We’re all about transparency when it comes to pricing, and we’re always happy to answer any questions you have—whether it’s before or during your venue tour.
Contact us today to check available wedding dates and schedule a tour of our space. While you’re here, don’t forget to browse our real wedding gallery for a little inspiration and a peek at some of our favorite past events!
Elyse Bonner Photography, 25 Items to Add to Your Flat Lay Wedding Photos
What is a Flat Lay, and Why is it Important?
A flat lay is a styled photo of items arranged on a flat surface, creating a cohesive visual story. For weddings, flat lays typically include your invitation suite, rings, florals, and personal touches that represent your love story.
The purpose of flat lay wedding photos is to:
Highlight the details that make your wedding unique.
Tell a cohesive story of your special day.
Preserve sentimental items like heirlooms or handwritten letters.
Add a touch of elegance and creativity to your wedding album.
Flat lays are more than just pretty pictures. They capture the essence of your wedding style, symbolizing all the thought and care you poured into planning.
25 Creative Items to Include in Your Flat Lay Wedding Photos
Wondering what to include in your flat lay photos? Here’s a creative list to inspire you:
Wedding Stationery
Invitations
RSVP cards
Save-the-dates
Envelopes (with vintage stamps)
Hand-calligraphed place cards
Marriage License
Passport tickets to your honeymoon (travel couples)
Jewelry and Accessories
Wedding rings
Your engagement ring
Cufflinks
Bride and groom's watches
Earrings or bracelets
Flowers
A sprig from your bouquet
Loose petals or greenery
Single stems of your wedding florals
Personal Touches
Family heirlooms
Handwritten vows
A locket with a loved one’s photo
A framed engagement photo
Bridal Details
Your wedding shoes
A silk ribbon (used in your bouquet or dress)
Perfume bottle
Favorite lipstick
Groom’s Details
Bow tie or tie
Pocket square
Boutonniere
Extra Aesthetic Elements
Velvet ring boxes
Wax seals
Decorative trays or mirrors for bold backdrops
Including a mix of wedding essentials and sentimental touches brings depth and personality to your flat lay photos. Collaborate with your photographer to choose items that reflect your love story and style.
1. Start with your wedding invitation suite
Your invitations set the mood and style for your big day. Include your main invite, RSVP card, envelopes, and any special inserts like a map or schedule.
Elyse Bonner Photography
2. Choose a cohesive color palette
Flat lays look best when everything blends well. Pick items that complement your wedding colors for a polished, harmonious effect.
3. Include unique stationery details
Don't forget extras like wax seals, custom stamps, or ribbon-tied envelopes. These little touches make your flat lays feel elegant and elevated.
Elyse Bonner Photography
4. Add fresh florals
Ask your florist to provide a few loose blooms and greenery from your bouquet or centerpiece arrangements. Flowers instantly bring life and softness to your images.
Elyse Bonner Photography, 25 Items to Add to Your Flat Lay Wedding Photos
5. Use meaningful accessories
From your engagement ring to an heirloom brooch, include items that hold special sentimental value. These pieces make your flat lay uniquely you.
6. Feature your wedding-day jewelry
Highlight sentimental pieces, whether they are your wedding bands, borrowed earrings, or that bracelet gifted by your mom.
7. Don’t forget the shoes
Wedding shoes can be a chic centerpiece for your flat lay. Make sure they’re clean and photo-ready if they’re going to take star placement.
Elyse Bonner Photography
8. Bring your perfume bottle
A gorgeous perfume bottle not only complements the composition but also reminds you of the scent you wore on this memorable day.
9. Include textures like fabric or ribbon
Add depth to your flat lay with textures like silk ribbons, lace from your dress, or velvet fabric swatches. Arrange them loosely for an organic look.
10. Show off your veil
Your veil can serve as an elegant backdrop for your flat lay, softening the overall look and adding a touch of romance.
11. Throw in handwritten notes
A heartfelt note to your future spouse or your handwritten vows can make for an intimate and beautiful addition.
12. Use personal items
Customize your layout with items like a locket, your favorite book, or even your family’s wedding Bible.
Elyse Bonner Photography
13. Add wedding favors
Showcase any unique wedding favors or keepsakes you’ve prepared for your guests.
14. Bring your wedding rings
While this one’s a given, it’s worth repeating. Clean your rings before they’re photographed to ensure they sparkle perfectly.
15. Think seasonal details
Is your wedding in spring? Add petals. A winter wedding? Pinecones or greenery work beautifully. Work with the season for a truly timeless aesthetic.
Elyse Bonner Photography
16. Accessorize with calligraphy
Beautifully hand-lettered place cards, escort cards, or name tags can make an elegant statement in your flat lay.
17. Highlight your heirlooms
If there are family heirlooms or antique items you’re incorporating into your wedding vision, include them in your flat lays for a touch of history.
18. Get creative with lighting
Soft, natural lighting is your best friend. Avoid harsh shadows or overly artificial lighting for a softer, timeless look.
19. Coordinate with your photographer
Talk to your photographer about what details you’d like to feature. Bringing them into the planning process ensures nothing important is overlooked.
20. Keep it balanced
Flat lay photos are all about balance. Don’t overcrowd the layout. Instead, give each detail room to breathe for that clean, organized elegance.
10 Reasons to Choose Loe Star Oaks for Your Wedding Venue Near Austin
If you’re an Austin couple dreaming of the perfect venue, Lone Star Oaks is a standout choice for a one-of-a-kind experience. Here’s why:
Timeless Scenery: Nestled within lush oak trees, Lone Star Oaks offers an enchanting outdoor setting.
Versatile Spaces: With both indoor and outdoor options, this venue can accommodate weddings of all styles and sizes.
Natural Light: Bright, natural light flows through the venue, making it ideal for stunning flat lay photos.
Rustic Elegance: Blending charm and sophistication, it creates a backdrop of effortless beauty.
Central Location: Conveniently close to Austin, making it perfect for local couples and out-of-town guests.
Bride and Groom Suites: Relax in luxurious, well-equipped suites before the ceremony.
Exclusive Use: Enjoy full privacy on your big day with only your wedding on the schedule.
Supportive Staff: A dedicated team ensures your wedding vision comes to life.
Landscape Features: Natural elements like oak canopies and stone paths add character to every photo.
Photo Opportunities: From grand entrances to intimate flat lays, the venue provides incredible backdrops for your entire album.
From lighting to natural textures, Lone Star Oaks is the perfect space to create breathtaking flat lay photos and unforgettable memories.
Capture Every Detail
Flat lay wedding photos are a wonderful way to cherish the smaller details that make your wedding uniquely yours. From your vows to your rings, these photos highlight the love and thought you’ve poured into your day.
Need help refining the details or choosing a venue that enhances every element? Reach out to Lone Star Oaks to book a tour and explore the possibilities. Their team will help you create a wedding experience that's as beautiful in photos as it is in person.
Want more wedding tips and ideas? Follow us for expert advice and inspiration tailored for Austin couples. Happy planning!
To learn more or to schedule a tour, visit Lone Star Oaks today. If you're in search of a Texas Hill Country wedding venue featuring a chapel, outdoor wedding ceremonies and luxury indoor receptions, breathtaking setting for your wedding photographs, consider Lone Star Oaks as your destination. Contact us today to schedule a venue tour.
We are excited to showcase our beautiful wedding venue, including the enchanting chapel, picturesque outdoor ceremony area, elegant indoor reception spaces, and all the distinctive features they offer. You can find more images on our gallery, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
Cocktail Attire for Men
Planning or attending a wedding can bring a lot of excitement, but figuring out the dress code can sometimes feel overwhelming. For weddings at Lone Star Oaks, located in the heart of Texas Hill Country near Austin, “Cocktail Attire” is a common request. If you’re not entirely sure what this means, you’re not alone! This guide breaks down everything you need to know to about cocktail attire for men, ensuring you're dressed appropriately and stylishly for the big day.
A Guide to Cocktail Attire for Men at Lone Star Oaks Austin Wedding Venue
Planning or attending a wedding can bring a lot of excitement, but figuring out the dress code can sometimes feel overwhelming. For weddings at Lone Star Oaks, located in the heart of Texas Hill Country near Austin, “Cocktail Attire” is a common request. If you’re not entirely sure what this means, you’re not alone! This guide breaks down everything you need to know to about cocktail attire for men, ensuring you're dressed appropriately and stylishly for the big day.
Before we get started, we would like to share a little information about Lone Star Oaks wedding venue. As a small business wedding venue, we’ve had the privilege of hosting hundreds of weddings and special celebrations over the years. We are committed to transparent pricing and we’re happy to answer all your pricing questions prior to and during a wedding venue tour.
Contact us today to check available wedding dates and book a tour of our venue. While you’re here, don’t forget to explore our real wedding gallery for Texas wedding venue inspiration and a closer look at our past events.
Blu Tree Studio, Texas Wedding Venue Cocktail Attire for Men
What is Cocktail Attire?
Cocktail attire strikes the perfect balance between formal and casual. It requires a polished and refined appearance while allowing room for personal style. Think of it as dressing up without wearing a tuxedo or going full black-tie.
Typically, cocktail attire for men includes:
A suit or tailored blazer (in neutral tones like navy, gray, or charcoal)
A well-fitted button-down shirt
Dress shoes like Oxfords, loafers, or brogues
Optional accessories such as ties, pocket squares, and polished cufflinks
This look works perfectly for weddings at Lone Star Oaks, where the rustic, elegant venue complements a timeless yet relaxed dress code.
Blu Tree Studio, Cocktail Attire for Men
Styles of Formal Wear for Men
Understanding the range of men’s formal wear can help you determine what works for a cocktail-style dress code:
Elyse Bonner Photography, Cocktail Attire for Men
Black-Tie Formal
Reserved for ultra-formal affairs, black-tie events call for tuxedos, bow ties, and patent leather shoes. This level of formality isn’t needed for cocktail attire.
Cocktail Attire
Polished but accessible, this dress code is the sweet spot for weddings. It’s classy enough to respect the couple's big day while providing flexibility in fabrics, colors, and styles.
Elyse Bonner Photography, Cocktail Attire for Men
Semi-Formal
A step below cocktail attire for men, semi-formal may allow for more experimentation with lighter-colored suits or even skipping ties, depending on the occasion. It’s important to follow your host’s instructions regarding dress code. If formal attire is requested, avoid wearing semi-formal. At Lone Star Oaks, many of our couples blend formal and casual styles—think jeans paired with suit jackets and ties. It’s a look we adore, as it strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort, helping guests feel more relaxed while maintaining a semi-formal vibe.
Elyse Bonner Photography, while this is not an example of cocktail attire for men, it is a style we see often at Austin Texas weddings.
What Not to Wear to a Cocktail Attire Wedding
Even though cocktail attire allows for creativity, it’s important to avoid certain style pitfalls:
No jeans or sneakers. While they may work for a casual night out, they’re inappropriate for a wedding atmosphere.
Skip overly bright or flashy colors. Stick to classic, muted tones to keep the look timeless and elegant.
No graphic t-shirts or casual button-downs. Keep your outfit sleek and formal with a crisp dress shirt.
Avoid underdressing. A suit or blazer is essential; showing up in slacks and a sweater won’t cut it.
By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll look appropriate and respectful for a wedding ceremony or reception.
Elyse Bonner Photography
Preparing to Attend a Cocktail Attire Wedding
Showing up prepared for the wedding means more than just dressing the part. Here are some additional tips for making the day go smoothly:
Make Sure Your Suit is Well-Fitted. Visit a tailor if necessary to ensure the jacket and pants fit just right.
Shine Your Shoes. Polished footwear instantly elevates your look.
Add Personal Touches. Consider a tie clip, watch, or cufflinks for subtle flair.
Check the Weather. Texas weddings can vary in temperature; bring a lightweight blazer in warmer months or a stylish overcoat for cooler evenings.
Rely on Accessories. A pocket square or vibrant tie can add personality without departing from the dress code.
Elyse Bonner Photography, Cocktail Attire
Why Lone Star Oaks is the Perfect Venue for a Cocktail Attire Wedding
Lone Star Oaks, just outside Austin, offers the perfect backdrop for a stylish cocktail attire wedding. The rustic charm of the Hill Country pairs beautifully with the sophistication of this dress code. From the ceremony under grand oak trees to the chic indoor reception space, every corner of the property exudes elegance.
Elyse Bonner Photography
10 Reasons to Schedule a Venue Tour at Lone Star Oaks
Thinking of hosting your wedding at Lone Star Oaks? Here are 10 reasons why this venue deserves a visit:
Stunning Hill Country Views – The natural landscape creates breathtaking photo opportunities.
Indoor and Outdoor Flexibility – Whether you dream of an open-air wedding ceremony or a refined indoor reception, Lone Star Oaks has you covered.
On-Site Amenities – From getting ready suites to dedicated spaces for the couple and their wedding party, comfort is always a priority.
Rustic Elegance – Our Texas Wedding venue blends timeless charm with modern sophistication.
Customizable Décor Options – Create a wedding style that reflects your personality without restriction.
Proximity to Austin – Guests can enjoy the easy accessibility of the city’s amenities before and after your big day.
Dedicated Event Staff – The Lone Star Oaks team helps ensure your wedding goes off without a hitch.
Community Atmosphere – Lone Star Oaks fosters a welcoming environment for couples and guests alike.
Complimentary Venue Tours – Schedule a venue visit so you can tour all of our wedding spaces and ask lots of questions with no obligation.
Unforgettable Wedding Memories – With our idyllic Texas Hill Country setting, Lone Star Oaks captures the joy and beauty of your wedding day providing lots of photography backdrop options.
Elyse Bonner Photography, Texas Wedding Venue Cocktail Attire
Celebrate in Style
Whether you're walking down the aisle or attending as a guest, getting cocktail attire right elevates the entire wedding experience at Lone Star Oaks. By combining thoughtful preparation and timeless fashion choices, you'll create a look that's as memorable as the venue itself.
To learn more or schedule a tour, visit Lone Star Oaks today. If you’re searching for a Texas Hill Country wedding venue that offers a charming chapel, outdoor ceremony spaces, luxury indoor reception areas, and a stunning backdrop for your wedding photographs, Lone Star Oaks is the ideal choice. Contact us today to arrange a tour of our venue.
Locally owned wedding venues are small business owners who not only create hundreds of jobs for the local wedding industry every year, we actively support our local economy. Please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Elyse Bonner Photography, Texas Wedding Venue Cocktail Attire
Blu Tree Studio, Cocktail Attire for Men
Locally owned wedding venues are small business owners who not only create hundreds of jobs for the local wedding industry every year, we actively support our local economy. Please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
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