**SERIOUSLY, BRIDES**

I know you've got so much on your mind right now. You're probably thinking about how to pack for the honeymoon, or what to wear to your final fitting, or how to make sure your hair and makeup look perfect for that first big family photo after the ceremony. But I want you to stop worrying about all of that stuff, and start thinking about something else: detail photos!

I'm talking about those "getting ready" photos where we see you in your gown and veil, putting on your shoes… maybe even holding a bouquet of flowers? Those are the photos that will help tell your story after the wedding day is over and done with. These are what will show people who didn't attend what it felt like to be there with you as you prepared for your big day. And they'll be able to relive those moments again and again through these images long after they've forgotten everything else from this special day.
 

And since we're talking about the details here—literally—here's a list of 12 things all brides should consider packing for their detail photos. Many of these items will (or should) be present already, but a few items on this list take a little extra planning in order to include them in your wedding day detail photos. Here is a list of the details I’ll photograph whenever they’re available to me. I recommend bringing all of these that are applicable, plus any other special touches that are important to you:
 

1. Dress and veil
2. Invitation suite (2 copies of the full suite, if possible)
3. Shoes
4. Jewelry
5. Perfume
6. Something old, new, borrowed, blue
7. ALL 3 rings – if all 3 are with you, your photo team will be able to photograph the full set. We’ll have time to get them to whoever will be holding them afterward.
8. Bouquet and/or loose florals – many florists are great about including a few loose flowers/greenery for styled detail photos. Don’t assume that they will automatically do this if you don’t ask, though. It’s also important to coordinate that these florals arrive by the designated time that these detail photos will happen.
9. Vow book
10. Any extra ribbon, accents, or items of significance that represent the day
11. Guest Welcome Bags or Favors
12. Any gifts or notes from one another

PRO TIP: With the exception of your dress, veil, and the flowers that your florist will deliver, these items should all fit easily into one box or container. This is the easiest way to collect your detail photo items! That way, you only need to make sure your “ detail box” is with you, versus all these odds and ends. The alternative is a good way for items to be forgotten! Doing this also allows your photo team to start right on time, versus needing to begin the day with a search for each of these items.