Your wedding day is finally here, and while you’ve spent months planning the big moments, there are some small essentials that can make your photos even more memorable. These aren’t just last-minute add-ons—they’re thoughtful details that add personality, keep you comfortable, and help your photographer capture the essence of your day. Here’s a quick guide to having everything on hand for photos that capture the full story, emotions, and charm of your wedding.

Shannon Leopold is a traveling documentary wedding photographer based in Boone, North Carolina. She offers intimate, honest, and nostalgic photography that captures real life love stories in an unexpected way. See her portfolio, services, or contact her.

1. Thoughtful Reception Favors

Reception favors aren’t just a nice gesture for your guests; they can also be a beautiful addition to your wedding photos. Think about something personal to you as a couple, whether it’s local honey jars, mini succulents, or even artisanal candles. These little tokens set the scene for your reception shots, creating a sense of intimacy and warmth.

Pro Tip: Display the favors in a way that flows with the rest of your décor—this can help your photographer capture the entire setup in a way that feels cohesive and adds layers to your story.

2. Cozy Blanket or Wrap for Outdoor Shots

Planning for photos in the beautiful North Carolina outdoors? Be ready for the chill! A cozy blanket or wrap not only keeps you warm but also adds a charming, sentimental vibe to the photos. Imagine you and your partner wrapped up together under a blanket, nestled against the mountain backdrop. This detail brings in a touch of nostalgia and makes those quiet, romantic shots even more special.

3. Comfortable and Stylish Shoes

Let’s be real—heels are great for a few hours, but when you’re dashing around for photos, something comfortable is a game-changer. Bring along a pair of shoes that let you move with ease. Bonus points if they’re a fun color or something with sentimental value, like the sneakers you wore on your first date. These make for playful, unexpected photo moments that show off your personality.

• Consider these options for your wedding shoes:
  • A stylish pair of flats or loafers for comfort and flair
  • Cozy boots if you’re getting married in cooler months
  • Sentimental or customized sneakers for a personal touch
  • Classic heels for the formal shots, with a comfortable backup ready

Having a backup pair not only keeps you comfortable but also adds variety to your photos, letting your photographer capture shots that feel relaxed and true to you.

4. A Makeup Touch-Up Kit

Photos capture the joy of your day, but a long day of celebrating can also wear down your look. A small makeup touch-up kit is essential to keep you looking fresh. Include powder, lipstick, and maybe even some blotting sheets to reduce any shine. You don’t need to do a full re-application; just a quick touch-up to keep that bridal glow going strong through every shot.

Plus, touching up your makeup can be a fun, candid photo op! Imagine you and your maid of honor fixing each other’s lip gloss or dabbing powder just before you step back into the party—these little moments are worth capturing.

5. Lint Roller for Quick Fixes

It’s easy to forget, but a lint roller is a lifesaver. Your photographer might cringe at the thought of photoshopping lint or pet hair out of every single shot. Plus, if you’re having an outdoor wedding, a quick once-over with a lint roller before your photos can make all the difference.

This small detail goes a long way in keeping your dress and suit looking flawless without adding any extra stress or worry.

6. Sentimental Items or Heirlooms

Consider bringing a sentimental item to hold or wear—maybe your grandmother’s brooch, your mother’s bracelet, or even a handkerchief from a close friend. These small, meaningful objects add layers to your story and give your photographer an opportunity to capture the day’s intimacy. Holding a locket with a family photo inside or wearing a ring that’s been passed down can ground you and make each shot feel a little richer.

7. Personal Letters or Vows

If you and your partner have written letters or personalized vows, keep them close. These can become priceless photos as you hold and read them for the first time on your wedding day. There’s something deeply romantic about capturing the tears and laughter that come with those personal words. It’s a small touch that can bring back memories of how you felt in that exact moment, even years down the road.

8. Prepped and Ready Wedding Party

A wedding party that’s prepared and relaxed makes a world of difference in your photos. Make sure they have the essentials too—think snacks, water, and maybe a few band-aids for those new shoes! Take a minute to remind your crew to breathe, stay present, and enjoy the day. When your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and family are happy and at ease, it shines through in the photos, making your memories feel even more joyful and genuine.

9. Small Bottle of Water and Snacks

Yes, really! Weddings can be long, and a quick snack or sip of water can be just what you need to keep your energy up. Dehydration or a quick hunger pang shouldn’t be the reason you’re not feeling your best when the camera clicks. These quick little “pick-me-ups” also make for candid shots that tell the story of a real day, filled with laughter and little moments of pause.

10. Wedding Rings and Box

This might seem obvious, but in the rush of things, it’s easy to forget! Have your wedding rings ready for close-up shots. A unique or sentimental ring box can add charm to the photos and make those detail shots more personal. Even if you’re opting for simple, classic bands, displaying them thoughtfully can make for gorgeous, timeless photos.

Wrapping It Up

The little things make the big moments feel all the more real. When your photographer captures the special items that tell your story, your photos become more than images—they become a window into the emotions, the laughter, and the love that made your wedding day unforgettable. So pack that lint roller, toss in a cozy blanket, and don’t forget those comfortable shoes. These are the details that will bring your photos to life, letting you look back on a day that felt truly and beautifully like you.

Planning for these small essentials helps your wedding day flow more smoothly, so you can stay focused on the moments that really matter. After all, the most memorable photos are the ones that show you enjoying every single second, just as you are.

Other blogs to read:

• 9 of The Best Venues for Stunning Photography in NC Mountains
• Why the NC Mountains are Perfect for Wedding Photography
• 11 Things to Ask Your Wedding Photographer for Stunning Pictures
• Documentary-Style vs Traditional Wedding Photography: Which Is Best?
• How to Capture the Most Authentic Engagement Photos
• 9 Key Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before a Shoot
• 7 Tips for Documentary-Style Wedding Photography