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011: AI Tools vs. the Power of Personal Connection with Ari Hodges

Podcast

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June 3, 2025

In a world where automation and AI tools are everywhere (yes, even in wedding planning!), there’s still nothing quite like the human touch—and that’s exactly what today’s guest, Ariana Hodges of West Coast Creatives SLC, brings to the table.

Ari is a wedding planner, designer, and all-around creative force who’s known for turning bold, unconventional ideas into effortlessly beautiful events. With a background in graphic design and a passion for helping couples stay grounded during the wedding whirlwind, she knows how to balance logistics with heart—and creativity with calm.

In this episode, we chat about:

  1. The real work wedding planners do behind the scenes (spoiler: it’s not all color palettes and checklists!)
  2. Trendy vs. timeless details—and how to make your wedding stand the test of time
  3. Why human connection will always matter more than automation in a celebration built on love
  4. Navigating family dynamics, stress, and curveballs during wedding season
  5. How to design a celebration that reflects your story, not someone else’s Pinterest board

We also explore what it looks like to protect the personal, meaningful aspects of business and creativity in an age of instant answers, digital shortcuts, and AI-generated everything.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, building a creative business, or just craving a reminder that heart-centered work still matters—this one’s for you.

Connect with Ari

Instagram | Website (designed by me!)

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work with me

howdy!

Abi Gwen

Brand Designer, Web Designer, Podcaster, Wife, Friend, and Email Marketing Lover. I'm stoked you're here. Stay awhile.

Clarity Looks Good on You 🫶🏻 Clarity Looks Good on You  💌 Clarity Looks Good on You 👀 Clarity Looks Good on You 📣 Clarity Looks Good on You 🫶🏻 Clarity Looks Good on You 💌 Clarity Looks Good on You 👀 Clarity Looks Good on You 📣

work with me

howdy!

Abi Gwen

Brand Designer, Web Designer, Podcaster, Wife, Friend, and Email Marketing Lover. I'm stoked you're here. Stay awhile.

Clarity Looks Good on You 🫶🏻 Clarity Looks Good on You  💌 Clarity Looks Good on You 👀 Clarity Looks Good on You 📣 Clarity Looks Good on You 🫶🏻 Clarity Looks Good on You 💌 Clarity Looks Good on You 👀 Clarity Looks Good on You 📣