Dempsey & Carroll event curator Austin Ackles sat down with Janel to discuss her event style. 

AA: What’s the most exciting new space in the Los Angeles area?

JG: Millwick is an amazing, modern venue. It’s industrial but chic, with vibrant colors and lots of greenery.

 

 

AA: Is there a classic venue to which you often return?

JG: Yes, The Langham Huntington Hotel & Spa is one of my favorites. I had my wedding there and have planned clients’ weddings there as well. After all these years it still takes my breath away.

 

 

AA: Can you recommend three fabulous champagnes for three different budgets?

JG: Of course! Champagne is the universal drink of choice for so many happy occasions. I like mine extra dry personally. For years, I have loved Jaume Serra Cristalino . It’s not champagne per se, but I had it at a black tie event for Placido Domingo years ago and when I got home and looked it up it was only $6! So of course for taste and price it’s amazing. I do love my Veuve Cliquot, of course, and my favorite is the Brut Rose; you can find it for as low as $59 at some stores. And of course I love Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut — the bottles are just works of art.

 

AA: Next time I’m in the area, where should I go for chocolate?

JG: In Los Angeles, head to Compartes. They have so many decadent flavors, sophisticated shapes, and they’re artistically packaged.

 

 

AA: What is your favorite use of event papers that goes beyond the essentials like escort cards, place cards, menus, or programs?

JG: I’m a sign person. I feel like the more signs the better, even if we are just stating the obvious like “Desserts” or “This way to the party.” I just feel like you can never have enough signage, especially in beautiful or whimsical calligraphy.

 

AA: What locale, if any, would you choose to plan your dream event?

JG: If there’s a region of the world I feel most enamored by, it is the French Riviera. I love French culture and their sophisticated yet simple approach to weddings. It is a style I identify with as well. I’ve been lucky enough to visit a few times and would love to plan a wedding in a luxurious Villa or Chateau overlooking the Mediterranean. Sounds like a dream!