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.

Learn more

arrow

Search

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.

arrow
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…

arrow
How to Choose a Wedding Photographer - Relaxed bride and groom. Black and white image of a groom with his bride thrown over his shoulder barefoot as he's running away with her.

For Brides

How to Choose a Wedding Photographer

If you’re wondering how to choose a wedding photographer, you’re not alone.

Pretty photos are easy to find.
But choosing the right photographer? That requires discernment.

Here’s what actually matters.

arrow
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.

arrow
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.

arrow
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.

arrow
what does it cost cover image with words on top of a flower display and table in the background

For Brides

How much does a wedding cost?

Let’s talk wedding budget. How much will that Pinterest worthy wedding actually cost? Two top-tier SoCal wedding planners weigh in.

arrow

For Brides

Save-the-Dates: Everything You Need to Know

Sending save-the-date cards for your wedding is a great way to ensure that your loved ones have enough time to plan and mark their calendars for your special day. Here is everything you need to know when sending save-the-dates.

arrow

For Brides

8 Must Ask Questions When Interviewing Wedding Vendors

When choosing your wedding vendors, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure that they’re a good fit for your big day. Here are the 8 must ask questions when interviewing prospective wedding vendors.

arrow

For Brides

Wedding Planning Advice and Tips

Today we are going to talk about my top wedding planning advice and tips. My goal in this blog/podcast is to give you bite sized pieces of information and advice to help you plan your wedding just a little bit easier. So let’s jump in!

Hi there! I’m Ariel, Los Angeles wedding photographer and your guide to all things wedding related. Be sure to give me a follow for tips and resources on how to create your dream wedding.

arrow

reader faves

Browse
Categories

browse by category

Weddings

venues

engagements

lifestyle

for photographers

for brides

free download

snag the
magnolia west wedding guide

Coming soon...

get the guide

Let's make magic together

arrow