{"id":19156,"date":"2026-03-27T22:09:18","date_gmt":"2026-03-27T22:09:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/?p=19156"},"modified":"2026-03-27T22:11:07","modified_gmt":"2026-03-27T22:11:07","slug":"wedding-planning-starter-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wedding-planning-starter-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Wedding Planning Starter Guide (2026)"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"19156\" class=\"elementor elementor-19156\" wpc-filter-elementor-widget=\"1\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-007532f elementor-section-stretched elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"007532f\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;stretch_section&quot;:&quot;section-stretched&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-custom\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-b097915\" data-id=\"b097915\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-677ce53 elementor-widget__width-inherit elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"677ce53\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Table of contents<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-119bb41 elementor-widget__width-inherit elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"119bb41\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1152\" height=\"1513\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ChannelArt-101425-v1-2.png?fit=1152%2C1513&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"img-fluid attachment-full size-full wp-image-17488\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ChannelArt-101425-v1-2.png?w=1152&amp;ssl=1 1152w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ChannelArt-101425-v1-2.png?resize=228%2C300&amp;ssl=1 228w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ChannelArt-101425-v1-2.png?resize=780%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 780w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ChannelArt-101425-v1-2.png?resize=768%2C1009&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1b78029 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1b78029\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"display-6 fs-lg\" style=\"text-align: center;\">Southern California Proposal &amp; Wedding Photographer<\/h2>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c5fce5e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c5fce5e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"h5 fw-bold text-uppercase text-black\">We\u2019re Stephanie and Bryan<\/span>\u2014 a husband-and-wife duo who believe that life\u2019s most meaningful moments deserve to be captured and cherished. Stephanie is the creative force behind the lens, and Bryan, a software engineer by day, is her biggest supporter in every endeavor. Together, we bring a dynamic blend of creativity, precision, and teamwork to every session.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e42edcd elementor-align-center elementor-widget__width-inherit elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"e42edcd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.button-landkit\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t        <div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n            <a href=\"http:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/contact-us\" class=\"elementor-button-link btn btn-primary btn-pill btn-xs lift shadow\" role=\"button\">\n                        <span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n                                    <span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Contact Us<\/span>\n                    <\/span>\n                    <\/a>\n        <\/div>\n        \t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-299580f\" data-id=\"299580f\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-43179ce elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"43179ce\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"2\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How to Plan Your Wedding with Clarity<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ee7ba90 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ee7ba90\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Planning a wedding is one of those rare life moments where everything feels meaningful\u2014and overwhelming\u2014at the same time.<\/p><p>There\u2019s excitement. There\u2019s pressure. There are opinions coming from every direction. And somewhere in the middle of it all, you\u2019re trying to figure out what actually feels right for <em>you<\/em>.<\/p><p>If you\u2019re at the beginning stages of planning, or even deep in decision fatigue, this guide is here to help you slow down, get clear, and move forward with intention.<\/p><p>Not just with a checklist\u2026 but with a sense of grounding.<\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 5c8d8d0b-61c7-4fef-8d60-adb3f4e36fbf --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 09e40dc2-08a6-414b-b814-1efa5e4344d5 --><!-- notionvc: 94c2c8bd-1ff5-469e-9d65-fd357b51368e --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 352d42ea-61f7-480e-b4e0-b1df125b038f --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: a9373979-fb71-4966-9840-0eb10ce66a0a --><!-- notionvc: 889f9829-e732-4987-8158-91ce1c41b157 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: c8cd12ce-5e29-4b7e-8c8d-793080963e33 --><!-- notionvc: 20533097-d649-429e-a4cb-fd4ca857fd0b --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f594bf9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image-gallery\" data-id=\"f594bf9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image-gallery.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-image-gallery\">\n\t\t\t<div id='gallery-1' class='gallery galleryid-19156 gallery-columns-2 gallery-size-large'><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"f594bf9\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Shutters on the Beach-Santa Monica-Wedding, Wedding Planning Starter Guide-4-STEPHANIE IP PHOTOGRAPHY\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNTksInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9TaHV0dGVycy1vbi10aGUtQmVhY2gtU2FudGEtTW9uaWNhLVdlZGRpbmctV2VkZGluZy1QbGFubmluZy1TdGFydGVyLUd1aWRlLTQtU1RFUEhBTklFLUlQLVBIT1RPR1JBUEhZLmpwZyIsInNsaWRlc2hvdyI6ImY1OTRiZjkifQ%3D%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-4-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-4-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C436&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-1-19159\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-4-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-4-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-4-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-4-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-4-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-4-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1366&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-4-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-4-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-1-19159'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"f594bf9\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNjAsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9TaHV0dGVycy1vbi10aGUtQmVhY2gtU2FudGEtTW9uaWNhLVdlZGRpbmctV2VkZGluZy1QbGFubmluZy1TdGFydGVyLUd1aWRlLTUtU1RFUEhBTklFLUlQLVBIT1RPR1JBUEhZLmpwZyIsInNsaWRlc2hvdyI6ImY1OTRiZjkifQ%3D%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-5-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-5-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C436&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-1-19160\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-5-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-5-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-5-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-5-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-5-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-5-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1366&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-5-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Shutters-on-the-Beach-Santa-Monica-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-5-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-1-19160'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"f594bf9\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNjEsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9UZXJyYW5lYS1SZXNvcnQtUmFuY2hvLVBhbG9zLVZlcmRlcy1XZWRkaW5nLVdlZGRpbmctUGxhbm5pbmctU3RhcnRlci1HdWlkZS0xLVNURVBIQU5JRS1JUC1QSE9UT0dSQVBIWS5qcGciLCJzbGlkZXNob3ciOiJmNTk0YmY5In0%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-1-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-1-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C436&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-1-19161\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-1-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-1-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-1-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-1-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-1-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-1-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1366&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-1-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-1-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-1-19161'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"f594bf9\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNjIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9UZXJyYW5lYS1SZXNvcnQtUmFuY2hvLVBhbG9zLVZlcmRlcy1XZWRkaW5nLVdlZGRpbmctUGxhbm5pbmctU3RhcnRlci1HdWlkZS0yLVNURVBIQU5JRS1JUC1QSE9UT0dSQVBIWS5qcGciLCJzbGlkZXNob3ciOiJmNTk0YmY5In0%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-2-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-2-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C436&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-1-19162\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-2-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-2-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-2-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-2-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-2-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-2-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1366&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-2-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Terranea-Resort-Rancho-Palos-Verdes-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-2-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-1-19162'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3153a9e elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3153a9e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Start Here: What Kind of Wedding Do You Actually Want?<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-25624f1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"25624f1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Before you look at venues, pricing, or timelines, pause here. Because one of the biggest mistakes couples make is planning a wedding they think they\u2019re <em>supposed<\/em> to have\u2026 instead of the one that actually fits them.<\/p><p>There are generally three directions couples lean toward:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Classic Wedding<\/strong> \u2013 A structured day with ceremony, reception, and guest list (typically 80\u2013200+ guests)<\/li><li><strong>Micro Wedding<\/strong> \u2013 A more intimate version of a traditional wedding (10\u201350 guests), still thoughtfully planned<\/li><li><strong>Elopement<\/strong> \u2013 A private or travel-based experience focused on just the two of you (or a very small group)<\/li><\/ul><p>This guide is primarily designed for couples planning a classic or micro wedding, where structure, vendors, and logistics play a bigger role.<\/p><p>If you\u2019re unsure which direction fits you yet, that\u2019s okay. The clarity often comes as you move through the next few steps.<!-- notionvc: fcfc6386-3711-41dd-a79c-be51dc216744 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 503c0b4e-4476-4b75-9b6c-1089fd321a7f --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: a72a9496-f655-4e8f-849b-3629776a9327 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 1830808a-1c56-4b44-94dc-29c806083222 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: ba1551ae-7d55-47af-b859-974dd27e18c4 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 60cc6134-f708-47fb-b436-657686706344 --><!-- notionvc: 5acfcfac-c63c-4c4f-bdf1-1e385dce7315 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 34e1d228-44cc-4bc4-a1cc-5054797dab18 --><!-- notionvc: 20533097-d649-429e-a4cb-fd4ca857fd0b --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dbe5241 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image-gallery\" data-id=\"dbe5241\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image-gallery.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-image-gallery\">\n\t\t\t<div id='gallery-2' class='gallery galleryid-19156 gallery-columns-2 gallery-size-large'><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"dbe5241\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNjksInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9XZXN0bGFrZS1WaWxsYWdlLUlubi1XZXN0bGFrZS1WaWxsYWdlLVdlZGRpbmctV2VkZGluZy1QbGFubmluZy1TdGFydGVyLUd1aWRlLTEzLVNURVBIQU5JRS1JUC1QSE9UT0dSQVBIWS5qcGciLCJzbGlkZXNob3ciOiJkYmU1MjQxIn0%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-13-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-13-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C436&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-2-19169\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-13-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-13-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-13-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-13-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-13-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1025&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-13-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1366&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-13-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-13-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-2-19169'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"dbe5241\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNzAsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9XZXN0bGFrZS1WaWxsYWdlLUlubi1XZXN0bGFrZS1WaWxsYWdlLVdlZGRpbmctV2VkZGluZy1QbGFubmluZy1TdGFydGVyLUd1aWRlLTI2LVNURVBIQU5JRS1JUC1QSE9UT0dSQVBIWS5qcGciLCJzbGlkZXNob3ciOiJkYmU1MjQxIn0%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-26-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-26-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C435&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-2-19170\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-26-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-26-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-26-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-26-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-26-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-26-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1365&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-26-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-26-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-2-19170'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"dbe5241\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNjUsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9SaW8tSG9uZG8tR29sZi1DbHViLURvd25leS1XZWRkaW5nLVdlZGRpbmctUGxhbm5pbmctU3RhcnRlci1HdWlkZS00MS1TVEVQSEFOSUUtSVAtUEhPVE9HUkFQSFkuanBnIiwic2xpZGVzaG93IjoiZGJlNTI0MSJ9\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-41-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-41-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C435&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-2-19165\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-41-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-41-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-41-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-41-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-41-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-41-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1365&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-41-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-41-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-2-19165'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"dbe5241\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNjYsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9SaW8tSG9uZG8tR29sZi1DbHViLURvd25leS1XZWRkaW5nLVdlZGRpbmctUGxhbm5pbmctU3RhcnRlci1HdWlkZS00My1TVEVQSEFOSUUtSVAtUEhPVE9HUkFQSFkuanBnIiwic2xpZGVzaG93IjoiZGJlNTI0MSJ9\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-43-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"435\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-43-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C435&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-2-19166\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-43-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-43-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-43-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C682&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-43-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-43-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-43-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1365&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-43-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Rio-Hondo-Golf-Club-Downey-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-43-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-2-19166'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"dbe5241\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNjcsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9TaGVybWFuLUxpYnJhcnktYW5kLUdhcmRlbnMtTmV3cG9ydC1CZWFjaC1XZWRkaW5nLVdlZGRpbmctUGxhbm5pbmctU3RhcnRlci1HdWlkZS03OS1TVEVQSEFOSUUtSVAtUEhPVE9HUkFQSFkuanBnIiwic2xpZGVzaG93IjoiZGJlNTI0MSJ9\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-79-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-79-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C436&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-2-19167\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-79-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-79-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-79-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-79-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-79-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-79-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1366&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-79-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-79-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-2-19167'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"dbe5241\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNjgsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9TaGVybWFuLUxpYnJhcnktYW5kLUdhcmRlbnMtTmV3cG9ydC1CZWFjaC1XZWRkaW5nLVdlZGRpbmctUGxhbm5pbmctU3RhcnRlci1HdWlkZS04MC1TVEVQSEFOSUUtSVAtUEhPVE9HUkFQSFkuanBnIiwic2xpZGVzaG93IjoiZGJlNTI0MSJ9\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-80-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-80-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C436&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-2-19168\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-80-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-80-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-80-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-80-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-80-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-80-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1366&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-80-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-80-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-2-19168'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"dbe5241\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNjMsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9MaW9ucy1MaWdodGhvdXNlLUxvbmctQmVhY2gtV2VkZGluZy1XZWRkaW5nLVBsYW5uaW5nLVN0YXJ0ZXItR3VpZGUtODgtU1RFUEhBTklFLUlQLVBIT1RPR1JBUEhZLmpwZyIsInNsaWRlc2hvdyI6ImRiZTUyNDEifQ%3D%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-88-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-88-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C436&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-2-19163\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-88-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-88-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-88-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-88-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-88-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-88-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1366&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-88-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-88-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-2-19163'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon landscape'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"dbe5241\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNjQsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9MaW9ucy1MaWdodGhvdXNlLUxvbmctQmVhY2gtV2VkZGluZy1XZWRkaW5nLVBsYW5uaW5nLVN0YXJ0ZXItR3VpZGUtOTQtU1RFUEhBTklFLUlQLVBIT1RPR1JBUEhZLmpwZyIsInNsaWRlc2hvdyI6ImRiZTUyNDEifQ%3D%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-94-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"436\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-94-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C436&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-2-19164\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-94-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=2500&amp;ssl=1 2500w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-94-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-94-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-94-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-94-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-94-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=2048%2C1366&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-94-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-94-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1959&amp;ssl=1 1959w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-2-19164'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fb021b3 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"fb021b3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"3\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Step 1 \u2013 Set Your Priorities (Before You Set Your Budget)<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ec40a86 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ec40a86\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Most people start with numbers. <br \/>But the couples who feel the most grounded in their decisions start with <em>values<\/em>.<\/p><h3>Ask yourselves:<\/h3><ul><li>What moments matter most to us?<\/li><li>What do we want to feel on our wedding day?<\/li><li>What do we want to remember 10 years from now?<\/li><\/ul><h3>For some couples, it\u2019s:<\/h3><ul><li>having all their favorite people in one place<\/li><li>a beautiful, intentional setting<\/li><li>feeling fully present instead of rushed<\/li><\/ul><p>When you\u2019re clear on your priorities, your decisions become easier, and your budget becomes more aligned with what actually matters.<!-- notionvc: 8d84a1dd-9de7-4232-86d1-4ca3c869e4ff --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e29b1e31-6872-4fd8-8292-9c1074a6b076 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9004fd81-b82a-4004-aa48-34ca8ea9cf47 --><!-- notionvc: 06b10830-e398-4f0a-ae85-82b22730a235 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e712b427-e1f3-4da2-af96-b79d870bd6f0 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 77bfb5e0-3524-4bb2-8842-56ba5b6d5df8 --><!-- notionvc: 4829ef97-98d8-49a3-8db1-a41c48337f84 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e1de7aad-6c60-475d-a98d-2519dd931ba7 --><!-- notionvc: 20533097-d649-429e-a4cb-fd4ca857fd0b --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-329e344 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"329e344\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"4\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Step 2 \u2013 Build a Realistic Wedding Budget<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-59d4f90 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"59d4f90\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Once you know what matters most, you can start assigning your budget with intention.<\/p><p>A few things to keep in mind:<\/p><ul><li>Weddings often cost more than couples initially expect<\/li><li>Not every category needs equal weight<\/li><li>Your highest priorities should receive the most investment<\/li><\/ul><p>For example, if your experience and memories matter deeply:<\/p><ul><li>photography and videography may be higher priorities<\/li><li>while decor or favors may be simplified<\/li><\/ul><p>This isn\u2019t about spending more\u2014it\u2019s about spending <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">intentionally<\/span>.<!-- notionvc: 53b978ff-8912-4cce-b981-860c91282d08 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 2e89ef88-9b9b-4134-a346-2272e577bea9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 2d2d7c84-211e-4723-af62-5bee1fb27165 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 4df3dcbb-e4cf-41c1-b5d6-bde1f6ec67a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9f122608-cef0-4a6f-9cd6-1239b6e1e4aa --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e22e3986-5ca1-4350-8b49-d17e20ffbacc --><!-- notionvc: fbe7f4da-0182-42ff-a1cb-9514297eabe0 --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-32c45cb elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"32c45cb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"5\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Step 3 \u2013 Choose Your Location &amp; Date<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-81163bd elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"81163bd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Your venue and date will shape almost every other decision.<\/p><p>Some couples:<\/p><ul><li>choose a <strong>specific venue first<\/strong>, then build around it<\/li><li>others choose a <strong>season or date<\/strong>, then find a location that fits<\/li><\/ul><p>In Southern California especially, a few things to consider:<\/p><ul><li>coastal locations can have unpredictable marine layer (even in summer)<\/li><li>fall and spring often offer the most consistent weather<\/li><li>sunset timing shifts significantly depending on the season<\/li><\/ul><p>Choosing your location isn\u2019t just about how it looks, it\u2019s about how the day will <em>feel<\/em>.<!-- notionvc: 6d23a12e-e566-491b-b8e7-a7ea11039d73 --><!-- notionvc: 7f21d7bc-4ea4-4c03-b72a-964def3f0175 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 43e16d39-3951-469f-8264-dda35feb05a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 2d2d7c84-211e-4723-af62-5bee1fb27165 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 4df3dcbb-e4cf-41c1-b5d6-bde1f6ec67a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9f122608-cef0-4a6f-9cd6-1239b6e1e4aa --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e22e3986-5ca1-4350-8b49-d17e20ffbacc --><!-- notionvc: fbe7f4da-0182-42ff-a1cb-9514297eabe0 --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-abc1a7c elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"abc1a7c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Step 4 \u2013 Book Your Core Vendors Early<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-cd2764f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"cd2764f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Once your date and location are set, your next step is securing your core team.<\/p><h3>Typically, this includes:<\/h3><ul><li>wedding planner or coordinator<\/li><li>photographer<\/li><li>videographer<\/li><li>venue (if not already secured)<\/li><\/ul><p>These vendors often book out months (sometimes over a year) in advance, especially for peak seasons.<\/p><p>More importantly, these are the people who will shape your experience the most.<\/p><p>The right photographer, for example, doesn\u2019t just document your day, they help you:<\/p><ul><li>feel at ease<\/li><li>stay present<\/li><li>move through the day without pressure<\/li><\/ul><p>This is where alignment matters more than just pricing.<!-- notionvc: 482fe416-58d8-49e3-b647-ef3f4640f016 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 6d23a12e-e566-491b-b8e7-a7ea11039d73 --><!-- notionvc: 7f21d7bc-4ea4-4c03-b72a-964def3f0175 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 43e16d39-3951-469f-8264-dda35feb05a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 2d2d7c84-211e-4723-af62-5bee1fb27165 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 4df3dcbb-e4cf-41c1-b5d6-bde1f6ec67a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9f122608-cef0-4a6f-9cd6-1239b6e1e4aa --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e22e3986-5ca1-4350-8b49-d17e20ffbacc --><!-- notionvc: fbe7f4da-0182-42ff-a1cb-9514297eabe0 --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5701b16 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5701b16\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Step 5 \u2013 Create a Flexible Timeline (Not a Rigid One)<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-abd9d2e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"abd9d2e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>A well-planned timeline creates space, not stress.<\/p><p>One of the biggest shifts I encourage couples to make is this:<\/p><h3>\ud83d\udc49 Instead of packing your day tightly\u2026 build in breathing room.<\/h3><p>This allows for:<\/p><ul><li>natural, candid moments<\/li><li>emotional transitions<\/li><li>unexpected delays without panic<\/li><\/ul><p>The most meaningful wedding days aren\u2019t rushed\u2014they\u2019re <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">felt<\/span>.<\/p><p>And your timeline plays a huge role in that.<!-- notionvc: 9030086a-1051-4d16-8848-0860c09ec7a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 482fe416-58d8-49e3-b647-ef3f4640f016 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 6d23a12e-e566-491b-b8e7-a7ea11039d73 --><!-- notionvc: 7f21d7bc-4ea4-4c03-b72a-964def3f0175 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 43e16d39-3951-469f-8264-dda35feb05a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 2d2d7c84-211e-4723-af62-5bee1fb27165 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 4df3dcbb-e4cf-41c1-b5d6-bde1f6ec67a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9f122608-cef0-4a6f-9cd6-1239b6e1e4aa --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e22e3986-5ca1-4350-8b49-d17e20ffbacc --><!-- notionvc: fbe7f4da-0182-42ff-a1cb-9514297eabe0 --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a8bbc01 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"a8bbc01\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Step 6 \u2013 Design the Experience, Not Just the Details<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-01e6940 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"01e6940\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>It\u2019s easy to get caught up in:<\/p><ul><li>color palettes<\/li><li>table settings<\/li><li>Pinterest boards<\/li><\/ul><p>But what your guests (and you) will remember most is:<\/p><ul><li>how the day felt<\/li><li>how present you were<\/li><li>how connected everything felt<\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Instead of asking:<\/strong><\/p><h3>\u201cHow do we make this look beautiful?\u201d<\/h3><p><strong>Try asking:<\/strong><\/p><h3>\u201cHow do we want people to feel when they\u2019re there?\u201d<\/h3><p>That shift changes everything.<\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 1563eaca-91dd-4aa6-9b91-7c797cda9b01 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9030086a-1051-4d16-8848-0860c09ec7a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 482fe416-58d8-49e3-b647-ef3f4640f016 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 6d23a12e-e566-491b-b8e7-a7ea11039d73 --><!-- notionvc: 7f21d7bc-4ea4-4c03-b72a-964def3f0175 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 43e16d39-3951-469f-8264-dda35feb05a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 2d2d7c84-211e-4723-af62-5bee1fb27165 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 4df3dcbb-e4cf-41c1-b5d6-bde1f6ec67a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9f122608-cef0-4a6f-9cd6-1239b6e1e4aa --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e22e3986-5ca1-4350-8b49-d17e20ffbacc --><!-- notionvc: fbe7f4da-0182-42ff-a1cb-9514297eabe0 --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-81c5de7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image-gallery\" data-id=\"81c5de7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image-gallery.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-image-gallery\">\n\t\t\t<div id='gallery-3' class='gallery galleryid-19156 gallery-columns-4 gallery-size-large'><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"81c5de7\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNzEsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9DYXNhLUJvbml0YS1Eb3dudG93bi1GdWxsZXJ0b24tRnVsbGVydG9uLVdlZGRpbmctV2VkZGluZy1QbGFubmluZy1TdGFydGVyLUd1aWRlLTQ5LVNURVBIQU5JRS1JUC1QSE9UT0dSQVBIWS5qcGciLCJzbGlkZXNob3ciOiI4MWM1ZGU3In0%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-49-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"979\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-49-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C979&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-3-19171\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-49-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1667&amp;ssl=1 1667w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-49-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-49-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-49-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-49-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-49-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1366%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1366w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-49-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-3-19171'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"81c5de7\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNzIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9DYXNhLUJvbml0YS1Eb3dudG93bi1GdWxsZXJ0b24tRnVsbGVydG9uLVdlZGRpbmctV2VkZGluZy1QbGFubmluZy1TdGFydGVyLUd1aWRlLTU4LVNURVBIQU5JRS1JUC1QSE9UT0dSQVBIWS5qcGciLCJzbGlkZXNob3ciOiI4MWM1ZGU3In0%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-58-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"979\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-58-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C979&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-3-19172\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-58-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1667&amp;ssl=1 1667w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-58-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Casa-Bonita-Downtown-Fullerton-Fullerton-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-58-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, 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\/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-3-19172'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"81c5de7\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNzQsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9MaW9ucy1MaWdodGhvdXNlLUxvbmctQmVhY2gtV2VkZGluZy1XZWRkaW5nLVBsYW5uaW5nLVN0YXJ0ZXItR3VpZGUtOTUtU1RFUEhBTklFLUlQLVBIT1RPR1JBUEhZLmpwZyIsInNsaWRlc2hvdyI6IjgxYzVkZTcifQ%3D%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-95-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"979\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-95-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C979&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-3-19174\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-95-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1667&amp;ssl=1 1667w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-95-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-95-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-95-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-95-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-95-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1366%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1366w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-95-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-3-19174'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"81c5de7\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNzMsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9MaW9ucy1MaWdodGhvdXNlLUxvbmctQmVhY2gtV2VkZGluZy1XZWRkaW5nLVBsYW5uaW5nLVN0YXJ0ZXItR3VpZGUtOTItU1RFUEhBTklFLUlQLVBIT1RPR1JBUEhZLmpwZyIsInNsaWRlc2hvdyI6IjgxYzVkZTcifQ%3D%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-92-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"979\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-92-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C979&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-3-19173\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-92-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1667&amp;ssl=1 1667w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-92-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-92-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-92-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-92-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-92-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1366%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1366w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Lions-Lighthouse-Long-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-92-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-3-19173'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"81c5de7\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNzYsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9TaGVybWFuLUxpYnJhcnktYW5kLUdhcmRlbnMtTmV3cG9ydC1CZWFjaC1XZWRkaW5nLVdlZGRpbmctUGxhbm5pbmctU3RhcnRlci1HdWlkZS04Mi1TVEVQSEFOSUUtSVAtUEhPVE9HUkFQSFkuanBnIiwic2xpZGVzaG93IjoiODFjNWRlNyJ9\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-82-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"979\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-82-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C979&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-3-19176\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-82-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1667&amp;ssl=1 1667w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-82-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-82-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-82-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-82-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-82-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1366%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1366w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-82-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-3-19176'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"81c5de7\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNzUsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9TaGVybWFuLUxpYnJhcnktYW5kLUdhcmRlbnMtTmV3cG9ydC1CZWFjaC1XZWRkaW5nLVdlZGRpbmctUGxhbm5pbmctU3RhcnRlci1HdWlkZS02Ny1TVEVQSEFOSUUtSVAtUEhPVE9HUkFQSFkuanBnIiwic2xpZGVzaG93IjoiODFjNWRlNyJ9\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-67-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"979\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-67-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C979&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-3-19175\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-67-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1667&amp;ssl=1 1667w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-67-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-67-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-67-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-67-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-67-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1366%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1366w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Sherman-Library-and-Gardens-Newport-Beach-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-67-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-3-19175'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"81c5de7\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNzcsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9XZXN0bGFrZS1WaWxsYWdlLUlubi1XZXN0bGFrZS1WaWxsYWdlLVdlZGRpbmctV2VkZGluZy1QbGFubmluZy1TdGFydGVyLUd1aWRlLTEwLVNURVBIQU5JRS1JUC1QSE9UT0dSQVBIWS5qcGciLCJzbGlkZXNob3ciOiI4MWM1ZGU3In0%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"979\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C979&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-3-19177\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1667&amp;ssl=1 1667w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1366%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1366w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-3-19177'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure><figure class='gallery-item'>\n\t\t\t<div class='gallery-icon portrait'>\n\t\t\t\t<a data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"yes\" data-elementor-lightbox-slideshow=\"81c5de7\" data-elementor-lightbox-title=\"Wedding Getting Ready Natural Light\" data-elementor-lightbox-description=\"Documentary-style wedding photography capturing a bride getting ready in soft natural light, emphasizing calm and anticipation.\" data-e-action-hash=\"#elementor-action%3Aaction%3Dlightbox%26settings%3DeyJpZCI6MTkxNzksInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOlwvXC9waG90b2dyYXBoeS5zdGVwaGFuaWVpcC5jb21cL2pvdXJuYWxcL3dwLWNvbnRlbnRcL3VwbG9hZHNcLzIwMjZcLzAzXC9XZXN0bGFrZS1WaWxsYWdlLUlubi1XZXN0bGFrZS1WaWxsYWdlLVdlZGRpbmctV2VkZGluZy1QbGFubmluZy1TdGFydGVyLUd1aWRlLTE5LVNURVBIQU5JRS1JUC1QSE9UT0dSQVBIWS5qcGciLCJzbGlkZXNob3ciOiI4MWM1ZGU3In0%3D\" href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-19-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?ssl=1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"653\" height=\"979\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-19-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=653%2C979&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"attachment-large size-large\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" aria-describedby=\"gallery-3-19179\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-19-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1667&amp;ssl=1 1667w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-19-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-19-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-19-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-19-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-19-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1366%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1366w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-19-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/><\/a>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<figcaption class='wp-caption-text gallery-caption' id='gallery-3-19179'>\n\t\t\t\tThe people who make your day meaningful.\n\t\t\t\t<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1a3cfab elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1a3cfab\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Do You Actually Need a Big Wedding?<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-519fb63 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"519fb63\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Somewhere along the way, many couples start questioning:<\/p><h3>\u201cDo we really want a big wedding\u2026 or are we just used to the idea of one?\u201d<\/h3><p>If you\u2019re feeling that tension, you\u2019re not alone.<\/p><p>Micro weddings have become a meaningful alternative for couples who want:<\/p><ul><li>a more intimate experience<\/li><li>deeper connection with each guest<\/li><li>less pressure and more presence<\/li><\/ul><p>And for some, an elopement offers even more freedom.<\/p><p>If you\u2019re exploring those options, check out our dedicated guides to help you navigate each path with clarity.<!-- notionvc: d992e783-6f8c-4562-bef4-276312f37989 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 1563eaca-91dd-4aa6-9b91-7c797cda9b01 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9030086a-1051-4d16-8848-0860c09ec7a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 482fe416-58d8-49e3-b647-ef3f4640f016 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 6d23a12e-e566-491b-b8e7-a7ea11039d73 --><!-- notionvc: 7f21d7bc-4ea4-4c03-b72a-964def3f0175 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 43e16d39-3951-469f-8264-dda35feb05a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 2d2d7c84-211e-4723-af62-5bee1fb27165 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 4df3dcbb-e4cf-41c1-b5d6-bde1f6ec67a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9f122608-cef0-4a6f-9cd6-1239b6e1e4aa --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e22e3986-5ca1-4350-8b49-d17e20ffbacc --><!-- notionvc: fbe7f4da-0182-42ff-a1cb-9514297eabe0 --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ebfda5f elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"ebfda5f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Final Thoughts: Planning Should Feel Grounding, Not Overwhelming<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8e9e74a elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8e9e74a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>There\u2019s no \u201cperfect\u201d way to plan a wedding.<\/p><p>But there <em>is<\/em> a way to plan one that feels aligned, intentional, and true to you.<\/p><p>If you take anything from this guide, let it be this:<\/p><p>You don\u2019t have to rush decisions.<\/p><p>You don\u2019t have to follow every tradition.<\/p><p>And you don\u2019t have to figure it all out at once.<\/p><p>Start with clarity.<\/p><p>Move with intention.<\/p><p>And trust that your day will come together in a way that reflects you.<\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e6f8b738-2ab0-4564-adeb-964f8d897e01 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: d992e783-6f8c-4562-bef4-276312f37989 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 1563eaca-91dd-4aa6-9b91-7c797cda9b01 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9030086a-1051-4d16-8848-0860c09ec7a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 482fe416-58d8-49e3-b647-ef3f4640f016 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 6d23a12e-e566-491b-b8e7-a7ea11039d73 --><!-- notionvc: 7f21d7bc-4ea4-4c03-b72a-964def3f0175 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 43e16d39-3951-469f-8264-dda35feb05a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 2d2d7c84-211e-4723-af62-5bee1fb27165 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 4df3dcbb-e4cf-41c1-b5d6-bde1f6ec67a9 --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: 9f122608-cef0-4a6f-9cd6-1239b6e1e4aa --><\/p><p><!-- notionvc: e22e3986-5ca1-4350-8b49-d17e20ffbacc --><!-- notionvc: fbe7f4da-0182-42ff-a1cb-9514297eabe0 --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-65df856 elementor-section-stretched elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"65df856\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;stretch_section&quot;:&quot;section-stretched&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-ecedc80 col-12 col-md-6 \" data-id=\"ecedc80\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;,&quot;_aos_animation&quot;:&quot;fade-up&quot;,&quot;_aos_animation_delay&quot;:300}\" data-aos=\"fade-up\" data-aos-delay=\"300\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-87e05c2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"87e05c2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" id=\"letschat\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title display-4 default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Planning Your Wedding in Southern California?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-95e0ae7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"95e0ae7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p style=\"text-align: center;\">If you\u2019re in the early stages of planning and looking for a photographer who brings a calm, grounded presence, <br \/>while capturing your day in a natural, documentary style, we\u2019d love to connect.<\/p><p style=\"text-align: center;\">Whether you\u2019re planning a classic wedding or something more intimate, let\u2019s chat! <br \/>We can help guide you through the process with clarity and care.<\/p><p style=\"text-align: center;\"><!-- notionvc: e17a5f45-99d8-432d-a13d-7c4b2c8cc9c1 --><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d6db145 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"d6db145\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.button-landkit\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t        <div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n            <a href=\"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/wedding\/index.html?utm_medium=social&#038;utm_source=blog\" class=\"elementor-button-link btn btn-primary btn-pill btn-sm lift shadow\" role=\"button\">\n                        <span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n                                    <span class=\"elementor-button-text\">See Offerings<\/span>\n                    <\/span>\n                    <\/a>\n        <\/div>\n        \t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-da075fe elementor-section-stretched elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"da075fe\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_aos_animation&quot;:&quot;fade-up&quot;,&quot;_aos_animation_delay&quot;:300,&quot;stretch_section&quot;:&quot;section-stretched&quot;}\" data-aos=\"fade-up\" data-aos-delay=\"300\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-2e17def\" data-id=\"2e17def\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ba2cf15 e-transform elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"ba2cf15\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_transform_rotateZ_effect&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:-4,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_rotateZ_effect_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;deg&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;_transform_rotateZ_effect_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;deg&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"landkit-elementor-heading__title display-4 default elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">More from the Journal<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1ddfbb4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-lk-posts\" data-id=\"1ddfbb4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"lk-posts.landkit-card\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">            <div class=\"col-12 col-md-6 col-lg-4 d-flex has-post-thumbnail\">\n            <div class=\"card shadow-light-lg lift lift-lg mb-6\">\n\n            \n            <!-- Image -->\n        <a class=\"card-img-top\" href=\"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/25th-wedding-anniversary-photoshoot-manhattan-beach\/\">\n            <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1707\" height=\"2560\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Manhattan-Beach-Pier-Manhattan-Beach-WeddingAnniversary-c-Stephanie-Ip-Photography.-All-Rights-Reserved.-19-scaled.jpg?fit=1707%2C2560&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"card-img-top wp-post-image\" alt=\"25th wedding anniversary photoshoot Manhattan Beach couple walking hand in hand\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Manhattan-Beach-Pier-Manhattan-Beach-WeddingAnniversary-c-Stephanie-Ip-Photography.-All-Rights-Reserved.-19-scaled.jpg?w=1707&amp;ssl=1 1707w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Manhattan-Beach-Pier-Manhattan-Beach-WeddingAnniversary-c-Stephanie-Ip-Photography.-All-Rights-Reserved.-19-scaled.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, 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https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Manhattan-Beach-Pier-Manhattan-Beach-WeddingAnniversary-c-Stephanie-Ip-Photography.-All-Rights-Reserved.-19-scaled.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/>        <\/a>\n\n                    <!-- Shape -->\n            <div class=\"position-relative\">\n                <div class=\"shape shape-bottom shape-fluid-x svg-shim text-white\">\n                    <svg viewBox=\"0 0 2880 48\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M0 48h2880V0h-720C1442.5 52 720 0 720 0H0v48z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n\n            \n            <!-- Body -->\n        <a class=\"card-body\" href=\"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/25th-wedding-anniversary-photoshoot-manhattan-beach\/\">\n\n            \n                        <!-- Heading -->\n            <h3 class=\"card-body__heading d-box box-orient-vertical post__title overflow-hidden\">\n                25th Wedding Anniversary Photoshoot in Manhattan Beach | A Silver Wedding Story            <\/h3>\n                        \n                        <!-- Text -->\n            <p class=\"card-body__excerpt post__excerpt overflow-hidden mb-0 text-muted\">\n                Manhattan Beach \u2022 California            <\/p>\n            \n        <\/a>\n            <!-- Meta -->\n        <a class=\"card-meta\" href=\"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/25th-wedding-anniversary-photoshoot-manhattan-beach\/\">\n\n            <!-- Divider -->\n        <hr class=\"card-meta-divider \">\n            <!-- Avatar -->\n        <div class=\"avatar avatar-sm mr-2\">\n            <img loading=\"lazy\" data-del=\"avatar\" src='https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/011721-StephanieHeadshots-3.jpg?fit=256%2C256&ssl=1' class='avatar pp-user-avatar avatar-256 photo avatar-img rounded-circle' height='256' width='256'\/>        <\/div>\n            <!-- Author -->\n        <h6 class=\"text-uppercase mr-2 mb-0 text-muted\">\n            Stephanie Ip Photography        <\/h6>\n            <!-- Date -->\n        <p class=\"h6 text-uppercase mb-0 ml-auto text-muted\">\n            <time datetime=\"2026-03-29T04:57:41+00:00\">Mar 29<\/time>\n        <\/p>\n        <\/a>\n        <\/div>            <\/div>            <div class=\"col-12 col-md-6 col-lg-4 d-flex has-post-thumbnail\">\n            <div class=\"card shadow-light-lg lift lift-lg mb-6\">\n\n            \n            <!-- Image -->\n        <a class=\"card-img-top\" href=\"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wedding-planning-starter-guide\/\">\n            <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1667\" height=\"2500\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?fit=1667%2C2500&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"card-img-top wp-post-image\" alt=\"Bride and groom embracing during golden hour wedding portraits in Southern California\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1667&amp;ssl=1 1667w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=200%2C300&amp;ssl=1 200w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 683w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?resize=1366%2C2048&amp;ssl=1 1366w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/Westlake-Village-Inn-Westlake-Village-Wedding-Wedding-Planning-Starter-Guide-10-STEPHANIE-IP-PHOTOGRAPHY.jpg?w=1306&amp;ssl=1 1306w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 653px) 100vw, 653px\" \/>        <\/a>\n\n                    <!-- Shape -->\n            <div class=\"position-relative\">\n                <div class=\"shape shape-bottom shape-fluid-x svg-shim text-white\">\n                    <svg viewBox=\"0 0 2880 48\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M0 48h2880V0h-720C1442.5 52 720 0 720 0H0v48z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n\n            \n            <!-- Body -->\n        <a class=\"card-body\" href=\"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wedding-planning-starter-guide\/\">\n\n            \n                        <!-- Heading -->\n            <h3 class=\"card-body__heading d-box box-orient-vertical post__title overflow-hidden\">\n                Wedding Planning Starter Guide (2026)            <\/h3>\n                        \n                        <!-- Text -->\n            <p class=\"card-body__excerpt post__excerpt overflow-hidden mb-0 text-muted\">\n                To all couples around the world.            <\/p>\n            \n        <\/a>\n            <!-- Meta -->\n        <a class=\"card-meta\" href=\"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wedding-planning-starter-guide\/\">\n\n            <!-- Divider -->\n        <hr class=\"card-meta-divider \">\n            <!-- Avatar -->\n        <div class=\"avatar avatar-sm mr-2\">\n            <img loading=\"lazy\" data-del=\"avatar\" src='https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/011721-StephanieHeadshots-3.jpg?fit=256%2C256&ssl=1' class='avatar pp-user-avatar avatar-256 photo avatar-img rounded-circle' height='256' width='256'\/>        <\/div>\n            <!-- Author -->\n        <h6 class=\"text-uppercase mr-2 mb-0 text-muted\">\n            Stephanie Ip Photography        <\/h6>\n            <!-- Date -->\n        <p class=\"h6 text-uppercase mb-0 ml-auto text-muted\">\n            <time datetime=\"2026-03-27T22:09:18+00:00\">Mar 27<\/time>\n        <\/p>\n        <\/a>\n        <\/div>            <\/div>            <div class=\"col-12 col-md-6 col-lg-4 d-flex has-post-thumbnail\">\n            <div class=\"card shadow-light-lg lift lift-lg mb-6\">\n\n            \n            <!-- Image -->\n        <a class=\"card-img-top\" href=\"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/romantic-malibu-calamigos-ranch-wedding-marcia-brenden\/\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/306-021724-StephanieIpPhotography.jpg?fit=%2C&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"card-img-top wp-post-image\" alt=\"Romantic Malibu Calamigos Ranch Wedding | Marcia &amp; Brenden\" \/>        <\/a>\n\n                    <!-- Shape -->\n            <div class=\"position-relative\">\n                <div class=\"shape shape-bottom shape-fluid-x svg-shim text-white\">\n                    <svg viewBox=\"0 0 2880 48\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M0 48h2880V0h-720C1442.5 52 720 0 720 0H0v48z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n\n            \n            <!-- Body -->\n        <a class=\"card-body\" href=\"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/romantic-malibu-calamigos-ranch-wedding-marcia-brenden\/\">\n\n            \n                        <!-- Heading -->\n            <h3 class=\"card-body__heading d-box box-orient-vertical post__title overflow-hidden\">\n                Romantic Malibu Calamigos Ranch Wedding | Marcia &#038; Brenden            <\/h3>\n                        \n                        <!-- Text -->\n            <p class=\"card-body__excerpt post__excerpt overflow-hidden mb-0 text-muted\">\n                Calamigos Ranch \u2022 Malibu \u2022  California            <\/p>\n            \n        <\/a>\n            <!-- Meta -->\n        <a class=\"card-meta\" href=\"https:\/\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/romantic-malibu-calamigos-ranch-wedding-marcia-brenden\/\">\n\n            <!-- Divider -->\n        <hr class=\"card-meta-divider \">\n            <!-- Avatar -->\n        <div class=\"avatar avatar-sm mr-2\">\n            <img loading=\"lazy\" data-del=\"avatar\" src='https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/photography.stephanieip.com\/journal\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/011721-StephanieHeadshots-3.jpg?fit=256%2C256&ssl=1' class='avatar pp-user-avatar avatar-256 photo avatar-img rounded-circle' height='256' width='256'\/>        <\/div>\n            <!-- Author -->\n        <h6 class=\"text-uppercase mr-2 mb-0 text-muted\">\n            Stephanie Ip Photography        <\/h6>\n            <!-- Date -->\n        <p class=\"h6 text-uppercase mb-0 ml-auto text-muted\">\n            <time datetime=\"2026-02-02T08:30:00+00:00\">Feb 2<\/time>\n        <\/p>\n        <\/a>\n        <\/div>            <\/div><\/div> <!-- \/ .row -->\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>To all couples around the 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