magnolia west

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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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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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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The Wally Bag--best garment bag for your wedding dress and your groom's tux

For Brides

How to Fly with Your Wedding Dress

Traveling to your destination wedding should feel calm — not like a last-minute crisis about stains or crushed tulle. Below is a practical, airline-aware, step-by-step guide (with real airline examples and tested garment-bag picks) so your gown arrives hangable, wearable, and as close to perfect as possible.

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