What to Include in Your Details Box


Before the big moments begin, I love starting the day with your details — the small, meaningful pieces that tell the story of who you are and what this day means to you. Gathering these in one spot helps me capture everything beautifully and keeps your morning stress-free.


Here’s what to include in your details box — and remember, this list isn’t about “shoulds,” it’s about you. Include what holds meaning, joy, and connection.


Sentimental Pieces

  • Anything that honors someone special or a loved one you’re carrying with you in spirit
  • Jewelry — whether new, borrowed, or passed down
  • Letters, notes, or vow books you’ve written in
  • Heirlooms or personal mementos that hold significance


Wedding Day Essentials

  • Rings (all of them!)
  • Shoes
  • Perfume or cologne
  • Tie, bow tie, watch, cufflinks, pocket square, or any accessories
  • Purse or clutch — even if you forget it later because you’re having too much fun (true story — I swapped mine with my matron of honor and didn’t get it back till the next morning!)


Paper Goods

  • Invitation suite (include envelopes, ribbon, wax seals, etc.)
  • Save the date
  • Programs, menus, or other printed pieces

If possible, set aside one full invitation suite just for me to photograph — it’s always worth it.


Florals & Extras

  • A few extra blooms or greenery from your florist — they tie everything together beautifully
  • Anything else that feels like you — something blue, a handkerchief, your favorite lipstick, or a charm with meaning


A Quick Tip

Gather everything in a small box or tote the week of your wedding and set it aside. When I arrive, hand it off to a friend or planner so you can relax and enjoy your morning knowing every little piece of your story will be beautifully documented.


These details might seem small, but they’re the heartbeat of your story — and I can’t wait to capture them for you.


Just engaged? Check out my work and holler at me.

details on floor at the BASH event center in downtown Des Moines Iowa during a fall wedding
Details photo of fall wedding at the Barn at Brophy Creek in DeWitt Iowa
wedding details on marble slab during a winter wedding in the midwest
picture of wedding details during a fall wedding at Lowe Park in Marion Iowa
black and white image of wedding rings taken in Boone Iowa during a fall intimate wedding
detail photo of wedding rings placed on dried floral bouquet at intimate wedding in Boone Iowa
Wedding detail photo on the floor at Sister Hill in Manchester Iowa
Wedding details photo at the Irishman Acres' Clover Barn venue in Bondurant Iowa
Photo of wedding details at an intimate ceremony in Boone iowa
Details photo of wedding in Cedar Falls Iowa
Wedding shoes on the window sill of Sister Hill in Manchester Iowa