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THE JOURNAL

Real talk, honest answers, and everything no one else is saying.

WELCOME TO THE BLOG!

I'm Ariel, a wedding photographer with over 20 years in the wedding and event industry. Welcome to my blog where you'll find bite sized nuggets of wedding advice on how to make your dream wedding a reality. Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. I'm here to here to be your guide...

A little about me: I was born and raised in Savannah, GA but now live in the greater LA area with my husband two boys. I'm inspired by all things French fashion and old world everything—books, architecture, music... The sounds of Johnny Mercer, Tony Bennett and Ella Fitzgerald fill my home. Oh, and I love a good romance.

You too? I'm always up for coffee or cocktails... Message me. I'd love to connect!

I'm so glad you're here!

welome to my blog

Hi there! I'm Ariel, a Los Angeles wedding photographer. Welcome to my blog where you'll find bite sized nuggets of wedding advice on how to make your dream wedding a reality.

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tented wedding in los angeles at lakeside golf club in burbank

Weddings

The Elevated Charm of a Tented Wedding in Los Angeles

A tented wedding in Los Angeles offers the perfect blend of open-air beauty and refined structure. At Lakeside Golf Club, a thoughtfully designed tent transforms the landscape into an intimate, elevated reception space—complete with chandeliers, layered lighting, and lush floral installations.

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wedding vendor tipping guide

For Brides

Tip Guide for Wedding Vendors

Consider this your refined Tip Guide for Wedding Vendors—a clear, thoughtful breakdown of what’s actually expected, what’s optional, and what truly matters. Because when it comes to tipping, there’s a lot of noise—and not nearly enough clarity.

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Wedding Budget Planning: The Smart Budget Breakdown for Weddings Under $200K

For Brides

Wedding Budget Planning: A Practical Percentage Breakdown for Weddings Under $200K

When couples begin planning their wedding, one of the biggest questions they ask is: How should we actually divide the budget? Everything you need to know…

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three beautiful blonde girls is vibrant colorful dresses holding wine glasses and charcuterie at a destination wedding welcome party in Santa Barbara, CA

For Brides

Destination Wedding Weekend: An Itinerary Guide for Couples in the Early Stage

Planning a destination wedding weekend? Here’s how to design a multi-day wedding weekend itinerary for 100 guests with ease and elegance.

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soft ivory table linens with ivory, blush and blue flowers with greenery with blush taper candles, crystal glassware, gold flatware, ivory plates, and blue napkins

For Brides

White Linens vs. Ivory Linens: Choosing the Perfect Table Setting for Your Wedding Reception

Discover the difference between white and ivory table linens, how each photographs, and which best complements your reception style and color palette.

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glowy golden hour portrait of an Indian groom in a blue suit with a pink tie and a Jewish bride in a white ballgown posed on the walkway in the garden of The Gardland Hotel in front of the fountain during golden hour

For Brides

The One Thing Your Wedding Photographer Should Give You (Beyond Beautiful Photos)

Discover why the most valuable thing your wedding photographer can offer isn’t just beautiful photos—but calm, connection, and unwavering support on your most meaningful day.

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los angeles wedding photographer magnolia west photography showing the bride and groom how beautiful thier portraits are in the back of the camera

For Brides

How to Choose Your Wedding Photographer

Looking for tips on how to choose your wedding photographer? Discover 7 expert-backed steps to help you find the right wedding photographer who will beautifully capture your love story.

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