Ok It did come flat. I am also a bit suprised at how small the opening is at the zipper but it is the most beautiful bag I have ever seen! I love it! I will post pics soon! Thank you everyone for waiting with me! I broke my nail opening the box but it was worth it! Oh and darn it says made in usa with Date code of SD0056 so 05/06 May of 2006, right? Wow well worth the wait what a beauty. I love her already. Does the opening get easier to get in and out of? It may be difficult to get a pursket in there, lol