What to Include in Your Wedding Day Details Box (For Both Bride and Groom)

Photography

HEY - I'm hayley!

Hi, I'm Hayley! I'm a Knoxville-based wedding and elopement photographer, podcaster, wife, mother, and social worker. This blog is a space where I share not only my professional work but also the stories, experiences, and insights that shape my life and my photography.

What You'll Find Here:

Photography Stories: Dive into detailed accounts of the weddings and sessions I've had the honor to capture. From classic estate weddings in Tennessee to intimate beach ceremonies in the Dominican Republic, I showcase the beauty and emotion of each unique celebration.

Client Experiences: Learn about the incredible individuals and couples I work with. I share their stories, the moments we've shared, and the connections we've built.

Session Locations and Venues: Get insights into the stunning locations and venues where I've photographed. Whether you're planning your own event or simply appreciate beautiful settings, these posts offer inspiration and information.

Personal Reflections: As a mother and creative professional, I discuss the balance between personal life and work, the joys and challenges of motherhood, and the journey of self-discovery.

Entrepreneurship and Lifestyle: I share my experiences as a business owner, offering tips and reflections on entrepreneurship, creativity, and living a fulfilling life.

Podcast Highlights: Explore episodes and behind-the-scenes insights from my true crime podcast, "Looks That Kill," which I co-host with my friend Leah.

Why You Should Read This Blog:

Authentic Storytelling: I believe in capturing and sharing real, raw moments. This blog is an extension of that philosophy, offering genuine stories and reflections.

Inspiration and Connection: Whether you're a bride-to-be, a fellow creative, or someone seeking inspiration, my blog offers content that resonates on a personal level.

Professional Insights: For those interested in photography, entrepreneurship, or balancing multiple roles, I provide honest accounts of my experiences, challenges, and lessons learned.

Community Building: This blog is more than just a collection of posts; it's a space for connection. I invite readers to engage, share their thoughts, and be part of a community that values authenticity and creativity.

Thank you for visiting my blog. I hope you find stories that inspire you, insights that inform you, and a sense of connection that brings you back. Feel free to explore, comment, and reach out — I'm always excited to connect with readers and fellow creatives.

FILED ON //

May 28, 2025

As a wedding photographer, one of my favorite parts of the day is capturing your details, including creating a wedding day details box. These little pieces tell a big part of your story. They bring your personalities, style, and love to life through thoughtful images. Whether you’re the bride or the groom, your details matter.

You’ve spent months planning. You chose your colors, flowers, and invitations with so much care. Those decisions deserve to be remembered. That’s why I always recommend having a wedding day details box ready when I arrive.

Here’s exactly what to include in your details box — and why it matters.


Why Detail Photos Matter

Before we get into the list, let’s talk about the why. Detail photos are more than just pretty pictures. They set the tone for your wedding gallery. They help tell the story from the beginning — before you even get dressed.

When you look back at your wedding album years from now, these images will take you right back. You’ll remember the scent of your perfume, the way your shoes clicked on the floor, the weight of your bouquet. These are the quiet, emotional moments that ground the rest of the day.

And if you’re anything like my couples — intentional, sentimental, and rooted in connection — those memories mean everything.


For the Bride: What to Include in Your Details Box

You’ve curated your look for the day with care. Let’s make sure every piece is captured.

1. Rings

Include all three rings — your engagement ring and both wedding bands. Place them in one small ring box or pouch.

2. Ring Box

A ring box adds texture and color to your flat lays. Velvet boxes work beautifully, especially in your wedding colors.

3. Shoes

Even if you plan to change into sneakers later, your ceremony shoes deserve their moment. Clean them ahead of time.

4. Jewelry

Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or hairpins — anything you plan to wear should be in the box. Include sentimental pieces too.

5. Wedding Stationery

Bring a full suite: invitation, RSVP card, envelopes, save-the-date, programs, or menus. If you used wax seals or custom stamps, add those too.

6. Perfume

Scents trigger memories. Your perfume bottle adds a personal, emotional layer to your detail shots.

7. Vow Book

If you’re writing your own vows, include your vow book. Handwritten notes add depth and intimacy to your story.

8. Loose Florals

Ask your florist to set aside a few extra blooms and greenery. These add beauty and color to your flat lays.

9. Veil or Hair Accessories

Your veil, hair comb, or any special clips help complete the look. Add them to the box for a full story.

10. Something Old, New, Borrowed, Blue

Many brides cherish this tradition. If you’re including these items, let’s capture them beautifully.


For the Groom: What to Include in Your Details Box

Grooms, your details matter just as much. They highlight your style, personality, and presence in the story.

1. Rings

Same as the bride. Include your wedding band in the box so I can photograph it with hers.

2. Shoes

Your dress shoes complete your wedding day look. Make sure they’re polished and clean before the big day.

3. Tie or Bow Tie

Whether you’re rocking a classic bow tie or a colorful necktie, it’s a key part of your outfit. Include it in the box.

Cuff links bring sophistication and often carry sentimental value. Include them, even if you don’t wear them until later.

5. Watch

Wearing a watch passed down from your dad? Or maybe a sleek new one? It’s part of your story. Let’s photograph it.

6. Cologne

Like perfume for the bride, cologne adds another sensory layer to your day. Plus, it looks great in detail shots.

7. Vow Book

If you’re reading vows, your book or note card belongs in the box. Especially if you’ve written them by hand.

8. Pocket Square or Boutonnière

If you’re wearing a pocket square or boutonnière, include it in your details. If your boutonnière is with the florist, just make sure I get a chance to photograph it later.

9. Belt or Suspenders

These smaller pieces often get overlooked, but they complete your look. Include them for a polished final story.


How to Prepare Your Details Box

Here’s the best part: preparing your box is easy. Just gather everything a day or two before the wedding. Place it all in a shoebox, basket, or tote. Label it clearly. Keep it somewhere easy to access on the morning of your wedding.

When I arrive, I’ll grab the box and get started right away. This allows you to keep relaxing while I start telling your story.


Extra Tips for Beautiful Detail Photos

  • Clean everything ahead of time. Wipe shoes, polish rings, and remove any stickers or tags.
  • Tell your florist you’ll need extra flowers for flat lays.
  • Lay out your dress or suit in a clean, clutter-free space for easy access.
  • Use neutral backgrounds or fabrics like silk, linen, or velvet to elevate the detail shots.
  • Think about color. Choose items that complement your wedding palette for a cohesive look.

Final Thoughts

As a Knoxville wedding photographer, I know that detail photos help tell the full story. My couples value intention and emotion. They care about their people and the meaning behind their choices. You’re not just planning a wedding — you’re crafting an experience.

These details reflect that.

So take a little time to gather them. When you sit down with your album in ten, twenty, or fifty years, you’ll be so glad you did. You’ll feel every moment all over again.

If you’re planning your wedding and want timeless, heartfelt photos — I’m here for you. Let’s tell your story, beautifully and completely.


Want to make sure we capture every detail on your wedding day?


Reach out through my contact form and let’s get started.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

HEY - I'm hayley!

Hi, I'm Hayley! I'm a Knoxville-based wedding and elopement photographer, podcaster, wife, mother, and social worker. This blog is a space where I share not only my professional work but also the stories, experiences, and insights that shape my life and my photography.

What You'll Find Here:

Photography Stories: Dive into detailed accounts of the weddings and sessions I've had the honor to capture. From classic estate weddings in Tennessee to intimate beach ceremonies in the Dominican Republic, I showcase the beauty and emotion of each unique celebration.

Client Experiences: Learn about the incredible individuals and couples I work with. I share their stories, the moments we've shared, and the connections we've built.

Session Locations and Venues: Get insights into the stunning locations and venues where I've photographed. Whether you're planning your own event or simply appreciate beautiful settings, these posts offer inspiration and information.

Personal Reflections: As a mother and creative professional, I discuss the balance between personal life and work, the joys and challenges of motherhood, and the journey of self-discovery.

Entrepreneurship and Lifestyle: I share my experiences as a business owner, offering tips and reflections on entrepreneurship, creativity, and living a fulfilling life.

Podcast Highlights: Explore episodes and behind-the-scenes insights from my true crime podcast, "Looks That Kill," which I co-host with my friend Leah.

Why You Should Read This Blog:

Authentic Storytelling: I believe in capturing and sharing real, raw moments. This blog is an extension of that philosophy, offering genuine stories and reflections.

Inspiration and Connection: Whether you're a bride-to-be, a fellow creative, or someone seeking inspiration, my blog offers content that resonates on a personal level.

Professional Insights: For those interested in photography, entrepreneurship, or balancing multiple roles, I provide honest accounts of my experiences, challenges, and lessons learned.

Community Building: This blog is more than just a collection of posts; it's a space for connection. I invite readers to engage, share their thoughts, and be part of a community that values authenticity and creativity.

Thank you for visiting my blog. I hope you find stories that inspire you, insights that inform you, and a sense of connection that brings you back. Feel free to explore, comment, and reach out — I'm always excited to connect with readers and fellow creatives.