For years, I’ve resisted the idea of creating (and carrying around) a “styling kit” for weddings. Seriously though, the thought of toting around props and ribbon on a client’s wedding day sounded awful. But – as my business has scaled, I’ve warmed up to the idea. Also, as much as I love a challenge – I don’t want to face one of finding an appropriate surface to photograph bridal details on the wedding day. So – I come prepared to create one myself!
My motto in business (and in life) is this: Keep It Simple. So, if you’re looking for a complex styling kit – this post isn’t for you. However, if you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, and to guarantee both flexibility and style – keep on scrolling.
How to Create a Styling Kit for Under $80
Styling Board – $20
There are lots of companies that make beautiful styling boards, but I found this DIY tutorial to be perfect for what I needed in my styling kit. And, it was certainly less expensive! The one change I made was using a wooden canvas – which helped to reduce the risk of making dents and dings as I toted the board around on wedding days.
To complete this project, all I needed was an 18×24 painters canvas, 1/2 yard of fabric and a glue gun. The best part? It took me less than 20 minutes to create! See – keeping it simple is my jam!
Pro Tip: When looking for material, don’t forget to check the remnant section at your local fabric store first! They often have quality fabric pieces for super cheap. I scored my lightly textured cream fabric for under $5 – and the color looks great with bridal details and invitations.
Assorted Ribbon – $20
Using ribbon is a great way to add color and highlight the palette of individual weddings – but going wild on color isn’t usually my style. Staying neutral with my ribbon gives me a lot of flexibility when styling and allow me to get more use out of my investment.
Pro Tip: Make sure to ask couples ahead of time what their main wedding colors are as well as the accent colors. If you feel compelled – you can grab some more colorful ribbon before the big day!
Vintage Stamps – $5
Adding vintage stamps to your kit is a great idea – especially for any styled invitation suite. I found this great shop on Etsy and the prices are a total steal. Fifty stamps for $5? Yes, please!
Pro Tip: Once I received my stamps in the mail, I organized them by color and put them in my styling kit bag. This made it so easy to find exactly what I was looking for on the wedding day!
Velvet Ring Box – $25
I have to admit – I don’t view a velvet ring box as a ‘must have’ in my styling kit, but after seeing this one at a recent wedding – I knew I had to have it! And, after using it a few times – I can say I have no regrets about this purchase!
Pro Tip: Ring boxes vary in price and style online. Not seeing what you need? Check your local thrift or antique shops!
Clay Ring Dish – $10
In my professional opinion, a neutral colored dish is essential to include in your styling kit. It’s great for ring shots, highlighting bride and groom jewelry and for photographing invitation suites. I purchased this one from Etsy on the cheap!
Pro Tip: Stores like Anthropologie and West Elm usually have ring dishes in their clearance section. Want to shop local or get something a bit more unique? Check out stores in your community that sell pottery made by local artists.
Bonus Styling Kit Items
One item we didn’t discuss above: fresh florals or greenery. Totally optional, but you can never go wrong when incorporating flowers or greens, right? I like to use fresh flowers from the florist the couple chose when available – but if not, I come to the venue prepared. I keep floral scissors in my bag and will often snip a piece or two from around the grounds of the venue. With permission, of course. :)
Now that you have your styling kit essentials – it’s time to pack it up nice and neat! You can certainly use a bag you already own, but I chose to splurge on this artist bag. It’s the perfect dimensions for the canvas and has lots of little pockets to keep my supplies organized. Again – this is a totally optional purchase – but it does a lot to help me feel and look more put together!
Have ideas or questions about styling kits? I’d love to hear them! Contact me here.
Quick Reference
Styling Board | Assorted Ribbon | Vintage Stamps | Velvet Ring Box | Clay Ring Dish | Floral Scissors | Artist Bag
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