beach wedding details

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5/13/25

written By Emily McPartland

Weddings

One of my favorite ways to kick off a wedding day is by photographing your details — it’s such a great way to get the creative energy flowing and set the tone for the rest of the day. These little pieces of your day help tell the full story and give your gallery a cohesive look and feel.

To help keep things simple and stress-free, I always recommend gathering these items in one spot as you go through the planning process. Having everything ready in a “detail box” is a game changer!


11 Items Brides Should Definitely Pack

Most of these will already be part of your wedding day, but a few might need a little extra thought or prep. Here’s what I’ll photograph if it’s available — and don’t be afraid to add anything else that feels special or meaningful to you!

  • Your dress + veil
  • Full invitation suite (two sets if possible — it helps with styling!)
  • Shoes
  • Jewelry
  • Perfume
  • Something old, new, borrowed, and blue
  • All 3 rings — if you have them with you, we’ll make sure they get back to the right people after
  • Bouquet + some loose florals (ask your florist to set a few aside — they don’t always include extras unless you ask!)
  • Vow book
  • Ribbons, heirlooms, or any pretty little accents
  • Any gifts or letters you’re exchanging with each other

Quick Tip: Aside from your dress, veil, and bouquet, everything should fit into one small box or container. That way, your photo team can dive right in without having to track down a bunch of little items. Trust me, it makes a huge difference.


12 Items Grooms Should Think About Packing

Groom detail photos are just as fun and important! When these items are ready and easy to grab, my second photographer can style and shoot them while I’m working on yours.

  • Suit
  • Tie or bow tie
  • Cuff links
  • Watch
  • Cologne
  • Shoes + socks
  • Handkerchief
  • Belt or suspenders
  • Boutonniere
  • Vow book
  • Any small styling items or accents
  • Gifts or notes you’re exchanging

Final Tip: Pack It Early!

If you haven’t started gathering these things yet, now’s a great time to do it! Having a little “detail box” ready to go makes the morning run smoother and ensures we can capture everything beautifully — without the stress of last-minute scrambling.

Want a checklist version of this post? Let me know and I’ll send one over!


At the end of the day, it’s about capturing what matters to you — the pieces that tell your story, in your style, and in your way. So start setting those pieces aside as they come together during planning. You’ll thank yourself later — and your gallery will too!

Xo,

Emily McPartland

23 Wedding Details to Pack for Your Wedding Day Detail Photos

beach wedding details

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