Park Manor Suites is a historic boutique-style all-suite hotel. Location = awesome. They are on the edge of Balboa Park West. Next door we find the world renowned San Diego Zoo, the Old Globe Theatre and many fine museums – all within walking distance. Just in case you’ve chosen the Park Manor for your Destination Wedding, see what else is close: San Diego Convention Center, Sea World, The Gaslamp District, Little Italy, the Cruise Ship Terminal, Old Town, Coronado Island and beautiful San Diego beaches - just minutes away.

Park Manor Suites - Breathtaking Views of San Diego

So now, imagine your perfect wedding, with breathtaking views of San Diego and panoramic vistas. Surrounded by your loved ones, you recite your vows and toast to the future, as the sun settles upon the horizon. All your wedding desires are attended to with sophistication and attention to detail, as the magical lights of downtown San Diego twinkle into view.

Romantic Penthouse Wedding Venue 

This sounds lavish…The expert staff of the Park Manor will create the wedding and reception of your dreams in the enchanting, newly renovated Penthouse. (Who would not want to do this?) The storybook character and refined charm of the 1920’s surrounds you, with fine period touches including crystal chandeliers, coffered ceilings and antique furnishings. This renowned San Diego boutique hotel, a registered historic site, creates the perfect romantic atmosphere for your special day.

Park Manor Suites - Romantic Wedding Location in the Heart of San Diego

This award winning wedding reception venue provides the perfect setting for the most intimate, to the most grand of weddings. Suspended above Balboa Park and San Diego Bay, this venue can accommodate up to 200 guests in comfort and refinement. Gourmet continental cuisine service can be customized to suit your tastes, from elegant buffets to formal tableside plated dinners or custom theme and carving stations. Their specialty menus and premium liquor, fine wine and imported beer selections allow you to design your very own wedding reception with sophistication and elegance. Another delightful advantage, they also feature classically appointed suites for your out of town guests.

And best of all, you can relax while the very capable wedding specialist and professional catering staff assist you in tailoring your wedding ceremony and reception down to the finest detail. Their wedding packages include a cocktail reception, hors d’ oeuvres, fine Contemporary American Cuisine, wine with dinner, a champagne toast, your wedding suite, and all taxes and gratuities.  Amazing location, beautiful facility, exquisite cuisine. What more could a bride ask for?

If you can dream it…they can totally do it!

Park Manor Suites - San Diego Wedding Location Perfection

Park Manor Suites - Romantic Penthouse Wedding Venue

Park Manor Suites - Classically Appointed Suites for Your Out of Town Guests.

Park Manor Suites - Historic San Diego Wedding Location

On your wedding day, the facility becomes yours and can be completely private to you and your guests.  There are no time or noise restrictions.  You’ll have a great team of support while planning your wedding and on the big day itself. Executive Chef, Catering Manager, Banquet Manager, bartenders and service staff work for you and your guests for the duration of your event. Whether hosting your rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception or any combination of these events, you’ll find they are devoted to delivering the wedding of your dreams. The Club offers a wonderful, unique and unrivaled sense of privacy and provides the perfect setting to celebrate the important occasions of life.

UCSD Faculty Club - A Charming and Secluded Setting for Weddings

The Faculty Club offers impeccable service, exquisite fare and provides precise attention to all the details of your wedding event. Flanked by a fabulous team of culinary experts, all food and beverage is prepared on site in their state-of-the-art facility by the talented Carriage Trade Catering Chef and culinary staff, a division of Premier Food Service.  They are pleased to offer a wide array of menu options and three wedding packages designed to ensure an elegant and romantic wedding celebration. Custom menus are also available upon request. They’ll even see that the kid’s have foods sure to make them wedding reception fans.

Parking is complimentary on Saturdays and Sundays on the UCSD campus.  Your guests may park in the lot adjacent to the Faculty Club and will not need to purchase parking permits. Facility Fee discounts available for UCSD alumni. 

UCSD Faculty Club - San Diego Wedding Reception Location

Facility Rental

Rental of the Faculty Club is $1,500 which includes:

•           Professional wedding coordination by Club staff

•           Setup and breakdown of your event

•           Tables and chairs for your reception

•           Elegant linens and votive candles for each table

•           All china, flatware and glassware

•           Buffet or hors d’oeuvres table décor

•           Skirted tables for gifts, place cards, guest book and cake

•           Parquet dance floor

 Ceremony Package

 The ceremony package is an additional $500 and includes private interior courtyard or outdoor lawn ceremony site setup with up to 150 chairs. A 50-foot white aisle runner is available for $50.

UCSD Faculty Club - Wedding Options to Assure Your Wedding Wishes Come True

Brides can attest that the Faculty Club made all of their dreams come true… 

“…..thank you, thank you, thank you for a simply wonderful, beyond perfect experience of planning with you for an over the top, simply gorgeous wedding reception celebration.” 

“Dixie was a dream come true and a real find.  She sold us on what she would provide and then delivered superbly.”

 “It was a pleasure working with you.  You have shown great professionalism even to the smallest of details – the venue, the linens, the menu, the napkin folds, the center pieces, parking permits, skirted tables for place cards and the nicely decorated platter of hors d’oeurvres and punch we enjoyed before the luncheon.  You have a special way of reassuring a bride-to-be that everything will turn our splendidly.  And it DID.”

“We loved it.  Everything was great – and so nice to have the peace and quiet of your “house”.  We could not have done it without you  and thank you for all your extraordinary thoughtfulness.”

“You really know who to throw a party”

Check out the UCSD Faculty Club. They’d love to shine for you.

UCSD Faculty Club - San Diego Wedding Location

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs - Breathtaking Ocean Views in San Diego

This spectacular oceanfront property has two outside terraces over-looking the ocean for your ceremony and reception. Notice the proximity to the water. You’ll feel like the waves are crashing right below your feet. Opt for a wedding at dusk as an incredible sunset fills the entire sky and reflects off the vast ocean making. Really romantic.  Guests are able to enjoy the ceremony, reception, and hotel rooms all in the same location which creates a mini community for everyone invited. These great features make this San Diego wedding location a candidate for the most memorable wedding ever – for you and your wedding guests!

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs has complete accommodations for both your wedding ceremony and reception. Observe these fabulous photos and note: your ceremony and reception are right on the ocean.  Imagine your amazing wedding photographs. Can you hear the soothing sound of the waves during your ceremony? Really cool.

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs - Romantic San Diego Wedding at Sunset

The Inn also provides an on-site wedding coordinator to help with organization, timelines, and planning for free! After your breathtaking wedding ceremony, the reception dinner tables will be just a few steps away. The staff at The Inn provides tables and chairs and will take care of setting up your reception area. Light up the fire pit during your reception to give your guests a place to gather. You’ll also find barbecues on site if a finger-lickin’ chicken and rib reception dinner is to your liking. The swimming pool is a nice feature for guests who are staying at the Inn, giving all a chance to chill and relax before and after the festivities. Hopefully, not during, but remember to be open minded and know that if your new husband and his best man jump in during the reception, you’ll laugh about it…someday.

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs - Spectacular San Diego Wedding Ceremony and Reception Location

Getting married at The Inn will feel like you are getting married right on top of the ocean. The booming waves, cawing seagulls, smell of the ocean breeze, and vast glistening waters will hypnotize you into a state of relaxation and utter enjoyment. Please note that in winter months, or when they are at low occupancy, the staff at The Inn is able to charge a site fee for as low as $2,500. When booking with them, the hosting party will receive 10% off on all 24 rooms for their guest’s accommodations. Sounds like your wedding festivities could turn out to be a mini vacation for all!

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs - Fabulous Ocean View San Diego Wedding Location

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs - Breathtaking Pacific Ocean Views

Anthology is basically a really beautiful, upscale supper club. A place you will want to dress up to attend and grace with your stylish presence (yes, even amongst the more common San Diego casual that, honestly, does get old). It has an amazing upscale flavor which I really like. And after looking at these photos Anthology would appear to be an awesome place to consider for your San Diego wedding.  It appears that the groom actually performed for the bride and their guests. I mean, look at her face. You can tell she’s really loving it. So as a San Diego reception venue consideration, here’s what I came away with.

Anthology - The Wedding Reception. The bride and her attendant look on as the groom apparently provides some sweet entertainment.

The Ceremony and Reception Facility is actually Multi-Level. You can have your ceremony downstairs, then move upstairs for cocktails while they transition the floor and set up for your reception, which includes seated dinner and dancing. Anthology has a full service fine dining restaurant to cater the event. There is an on-site event coordinator. Your package will include full use of existing décor, lounge furniture, banquet tables, dining tables, and chairs (Chivarii and White Leather). Now what is really interesting is the built in stage, lighting, plasmas, live–feed video recording and on-site production team for all A/V needs. Sound like fun? I think something awesome could transpire.

So, what they are really offering you is the ability to get married in an awesome stylish environment, be served fabulous cuisine, surrounded by a staff of not only catering professionals, wedding planning professionals, but also an on site production team to create amazing sound, video, whatever and ultimately your groom can perform for you and your guests. Yes? Well, maybe not, but the options are pretty unique and fabulous.

Alternatives to make your wedding ceremony and reception different, exceptional and  customized to make your dreams come true could be:

Get married on a Sunday or Monday or when Anthology is “dark”…flexible pricing and minimums…

Don’t make it completely private…buy out the top floor of the venue (100-150 guests) for your reception and bring down the cost of entertainment and venue rental significantly….

Let us know if you’ve been to Anthology for a wedding or other type of event (I imagine it’s a great party location or perfect place to go for an upscale evening of music and dining). But since I’ve never been, I’d love to hear from you…

Anthology - Gorgeous Wedding Cake Tops Off The Fun

Anthology - Ode to the Bride

Anthology - San Diego Wedding Receptions Made Better

The Abbey - A Beautiful, Historic San Diego Wedding Location

If you love the thought and feeling of a time-honored wedding, this venue offers an amazing slice of history. Step back into the year 1910. William Howard Taft was president, the Panama Canal was near completion, and the country was enjoying the carefree years of la belle époque (I looked it up – “Beautiful Era”). In the small town of San Diego, a burst of architectural creativity produced noteworthy buildings, such as those in Horton Plaza and the U.S. Grant Hotel. In fashionable “Uptown” San Diego horticulturist Kate Sessions was planting trees that would soon shade glorious Balboa Park. On the fringe of this newborn landscape, master architect Norman Foote Marsh unveiled the Park Place Methodist Episcopal Church, an acclaimed structure that would eventually become “The Abbey.” Makes you want to hike your skirts up above your ankles, doesn’t it ladies?

Now a full service event planning company, the consummate professionals at The Abbey easily handle all the details of your wedding day, so you can relax and enjoy it to the fullest. Packages are available for ceremonies and receptions, rehearsal dinners and any other wedding related celebrations. The Abbey provides you with a full service catering company and offers on-site coordination. Your rental is made easy as it includes: tables, chairs, china, glassware, silverware, linens, and chairs, as well as their “crew” to assure your San Diego wedding is smooth. If you do choose this as your wedding venue, your guests will be treated to yummy cuisine; all prepared on site in their 2,400 square foot gourmet kitchen. Mmm,mm,mm. Fresh, hot and delicious.  

The Abbey Features Two Enormous Domed, Stained Glass Skylights

Picture this: Two enormous domed, stained glass skylights bathe the room in a pale yellow glow, while the twelve luminous stained glass windows cast their own heavenly light. Standing in the middle of this former church, you feel as if you’re in a Renaissance cathedral: dark, polished redwood molding and woodwork is everywhere—framing doors, railings, walls and curved balconies. Stunning fixtures made of hand-blown, orange-yellow glass are suspended from 50-foot ceilings. Wedding ceremonies take place where the pulpit used to be, and no matter where guests are seated—on the ground floor or up on the mezzanine—they can easily see the goings-on. 

The Abbey - Full Service Catering Company and On-site Coordination

After a totally romantic ceremony your guests begin to feast on hors d’ouerves, such as Baked Brie in Puffed Pastry with Apricots and Candied Walnuts, Spinach and Artichoke Gratin with Toasted Garlic Crostini. OMGosh!  Trays are passed with Coconut Fried Shrimp with Passion Fruit Dipping Sauce and Mushroom Bruschetta with Fresh Herbs. Then the chef gets serious! The Entrée: Baby Spinach and Radicchio with Crispy Pancetta, Kalamata Olives, Roasted Red Peppers, Asiago and Roasted Garlic Balsamic Vinaigrette, Duet of Pan-Seared Pacific Salmon with Roasted Leeks, Tomatoes, Saffron and Cream, and Grilled Petite Center Cut Filet Mignon sauced with a rich Veal Demi Glace, Truffles and Madeira Sauté of Asparagus, Baby Carrot and Red Bell Peppers with Sage Butter Potato Soufflé with Fresh Rosemary, Rustic Breads with Whipped Herb Butter. Are you getting all of this? And don’t forget dessert of Chocolate Dipped Strawberries and Assorted Chocolate Truffles. (Please invite me to your wedding, because this sounds fabulous!) 

A couple of notes from Real Weddings at The Abbey:

Hi Kristie,

We just got back from our honeymoon and I wanted to take a minute to say thank you for all your help!!  The wedding was perfect! We really could not have asked for anything more!  I have heard from so many people who tell me that it was the best wedding that they’ve ever been to, and the food was wonderful!!

***************************** 

Hi Kristie,
I got your message….but not until we got back from our honeymoon, sorry! We had a blast – it was absolutely amazing! Thank you so much for all of your help! It was exactly what we wanted and totally stress free! So many of our guests commented on how it was one of the best weddings they had ever been to – which is saying a lot since we have a big family and were pretty much the last to get married! 

***************************** 

Dear Kristie;

WOW, what an amazing day. Everything was so perfect. The music was perfect, the flowers were perfect, the food was great, and the service was unimaginable. They were all so great. They were all so polite and willing to make everything just right. That was by far the best day of our whole life and I owe most of it to you and your staff. That was just amazing. With many thanks and appreciation to one of the most memorable days of our life.

***************************** 

We think The Abbey is definitely worth checking into. If you’ve attended a wedding at the Abbey, fill us in. We want the whole story for our San Diego brides-to-be, and love to hear what you think.

The Abbey - Lovely San Diego Wedding Ceremony Location

The Abbey - Step Back in Time at this Historic Landmark Wedding Location

The Abbey - San Diego Wedding Reception Location

Ocean Pearl Weddings - The Perfect San Diego California Wedding Experience

The perfect Southern California coastal wedding experience can be found at Ocean Pearl Weddings at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa.  Nestled just north of San Diego, in the picturesque coastal community of Carlsbad, the Resort offers over 30,000 square feet of flexible indoor/outdoor event space, gorgeously appointed ballrooms, richly scenic outdoor wedding ceremony sites on an expansive lush green lawn dotted with California palm trees and set to a background of lush rolling hills and colorful flower fields.  An outdoor wedding reception area is included with vistas of the Pacific coastline in the distance, as well as pre and post wedding activities for the entire wedding party and guests. 

The Resort is home to Ocean Pearl Spa, a luxe, completely organic, full service spa specializing in decadent marine based treatments perfect for the bride and her court.  Even in the middle of finalizing last minute details, an intimate Spa Happy Hour can quickly but effectively relax and recharge frazzled wedding groups with 15-minute mini treatments such as the Peppermint Foot Treatment with White Chocolate, Aromatherapy Scalp Massage or Quick Fix Hand and Shoulder Massage. Or, let Ocean Pearl provide full service make up and hair services for everyone from the bride to mom to flower girls and bridesmaids.

Twenty/20 Grill & Wine Bar offers the freshest in locally grown coastal cuisine in an elegant yet casual atmosphere reflective of the SoCal lifestyle.  The restaurant has indoor or alfresco dining for pre and post wedding celebrations.  Inside, guests of the airy 5,200 square foot space are treated to ribbons of sunlight through floor to ceiling windows.  And outside, on the 1,700 square foot patio, a roaring fire pit and panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean are the perfect backdrop to any meal.  Twenty/20 is an ideal San Diego location for an intimate rehearsal dinner (in its private dining room); post wedding reception cocktails; or morning after brunch with family and friends.

Ocean Pearl Weddings - The Perfect San Diego California Wedding Experience

Ocean Pearl Weddings offers a full service experience with every detail of your San Diego wedding attended to from start to finish.  Fabulous location options throughout the resort for pre and post celebrations, customizable specialty menus with superb ingredients and stunning presentation, a wedding coordinator to handle everything from flowers to menus to spa treatments for the wedding party, access to our contacts with wedding photographers, make up artists and the best creative wedding cake bakers in the world…our complete staff is here to help with this special day.  Just a few of the areas in which we can help create the San Diego wedding of your dreams include:

Ocean Pearl Weddings - The Perfect San Diego California Wedding Experience

Engagement Parties:
A Catering Manager will assist in planning the perfect engagement party, whether it’s a Beach Themed BBQ outside on our lawn or a Formal Dinner in our beautiful ballrooms.

Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties:
Ocean Pearl Weddings can help plan pre-wedding parties as well. Ladies can indulge in a day of shopping at the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, and melt pre-wedding stress away with a customized group spa package at Ocean Pearl Spa. Make it a memorable weekend with the men teeing off at our neighboring golf course, The Crossings, or personalized surf lessons at Ponto Beach—a great addition to a San Diego travel experience.

Wedding Day Makeup and Hair:
The Ocean Pearl Spa is available for hair and makeup consultations. The “day of” guests can relax in our Spa and Salon while having their hair and makeup done, or have our beauty technicians come directly to your hotel suite. And don’t forget—champagne cocktails are plentiful!

Ocean Pearl Weddings - Be Pampered in the Ocean Pearl Lounge

Rehearsal Dinners:
For an intimate dinner, invite your closest friends and family to join you at Twenty/20 Grill & Wine Bar in the semi private dining room, while you enjoy fresh, local, and seasonal cuisine. For a larger celebration, we have multiple private ballrooms and outdoor venues to accommodate a catered affair.

Anniversary Celebrations:
Whether you are celebrating your 1st or 50th Anniversary, celebrate it at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa with a private dinner or perhaps a renewal of vows on our Ocean Blue Lawn and a luxuriously appointed guest suite, perfect for an overnight celebration.

To extend our service and gratitude for sharing such an important event with us, the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort is happy to start the happy couple off on their honeymoon at any Starwood Hotel Worldwide* with the first two nights paid by Ocean Pearl Weddings. The Honeymoon On Us offer is good from May 1, 2009 through September 1, 2010 and eligible weddings must be for 200-plus people and include the reception at the resort.

Ocean Pearl Weddings - The Perfect San Diego Reception Location

Ocean Pearl Weddings - The Perfect San Diego California Wedding Experience

Ocean Pearl Spa - A Place to Relax and Rejuvenate Before Your Wedding

 CORONADO

Best attributes: Surfing; Shopping; Biking/skating; Romance; Honeymoon destination; Ceremony & reception location.

Hotel del Coronado - Beautiful San Diego Beach Wedding

Coronado Highlights 

Coronado has some of the most perfect beaches San Diego has to offer, whether you want to spend an entire day or weekend sprawled out under an umbrella until the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, swim, surf, sail, bodyboard, fish, or just fall asleep in the sun. Other activities include beach volleyball, tide pool exploration, and kite flying. There is also a bike path south of the Hotel Del Coronado. Additionally, in early winter, watch for migrating whales.

For some, the elegant Hotel Del Coronado— a cultural centerpiece of San Diego — is the primary reason for visiting the City of Coronado. One of the most picturesque locations in all of San Diego, this facility is a perfect location for your wedding ceremony, reception and even honeymoon. But this tiny upscale island city, separated from downtown San Diego by bridge, also boasts flat sandy beaches, stately homes, boutiques, restaurants, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego.

Logistics  Beach areas have fire rings, restrooms, showers, and lifeguards. Also, there is an off-leash dog area to the north. Park free on Ocean Boulevard, but plan to arrive before 11 a.m. on summer weekends to beat the crowds. Also, try the free parking lots on Avenida Lunar and Avenida de las Arenas.

Getting to Coronado Coronado is a short ferry ride or car trip across the San Diego Bay Bridge from downtown San Diego. From the Bay Bridge, travel several blocks on Third Street. Turn left onto Orange Avenue. Turn right onto R.H. Dana Place, which will take you to Ocean Boulevard. Coronado Municipal Beach runs along Ocean Boulevard from Avenida Lunar in the south to Naval Air Station North Island Gate 5 to the north. For those making their way leisurely across the bay, the ferry departs from downtown San Diego at the Broadway Pier. Bicycles are allowed onboard. You can get to Silver Strand State Beach by traveling south on I-5 from San Diego and exiting at Palm Avenue / Highway 75. Then go west on Palm and follow signs to Highway 75 and Silver Strand State Beach.

Hotel del Coronado - Weddings on the Beach

Insider Tips For walking and biking, visitors will discover that Centennial Park (near the ferry landing at the end of Orange Avenue) is an excellent starting point. A wide concrete pathway runs east-west, affording dramatic views of downtown San Diego. You can rent bicycles near the Coronado Ferry Landing. Bike riders looking for a more challenging route can follow the same path south and east. At Tidelands Park, follow the pathway under the bridge, continue to Glorietta Boulevard, turn left, and continue until you see Pomona Avenue. Turn left on Pomona and continue to Silver Strand Highway, where you’ll soon see an asphalt pathway on the bayside. This pathway runs all the way to Imperial Beach! Riders of all abilities will enjoy this path. Stop along the way at Silver Strand State Beach. Round trip is over 20 miles, so be prepared with water and snacks.

While visiting Coronado, be sure to take a gander at the upscale restaurants and shops at the corners of Orange and Pomona Avenues… and if you’re not already staying at the Hotel Del Coronado, drop by at sunset for drinks on the water.

 
 DEL MAR

 Best attributes: Surfing; Shopping; Romance; Honeymoon destination; Ceremony & reception location.

Del Mar Highlights The City of Del Mar, world famous for its horseracing (July – September at the fairgrounds), has one of the most popular beaches in North County San Diego. Located just north of Torrey Pines State Beach, Del Mar’s beach is perfect for families, tourists, and surfers who enjoy its wide expanse of sand. Swimming, walking, surfing, body boarding, and even grunion hunting are just some of the activities you can enjoy at this beach.

The Sheraton Hacienda - Breathtaking San Diego Beach Weddings

Del Mar also has two seaside parks — Seagrove and Powerhouse — both great for picnicking, stunning ocean views and seaside wedding ceremonies and receptions. Often referred to as “Malibu South,” the community of Del Mar features expensive real estate, luxury hotels, perfect for honeymooning, and high-end boutiques, trendy cafes, and restaurants (along Camino Del Mar / Highway 101). The Del Mar Fair, one of the largest county fairs in the U.S., runs from mid-June through July 4 and has carnival rides, games, entertainment, and exhibits.

Logistics  Del Mar has restrooms, showers, and wheelchair accessibility. Lifeguards are stationed year-round. Paid parking is available across from Powerhouse Park or try street parking near 15th Street and Coast Boulevard (metered). You can find free street parking on 17th Street; however, like most beaches during the summer, spaces fill early. At peak times, parking is scarce and traffic backs up along Coast Route 101, but it’s not a problem if you arrive a little early in the day.

Getting to Del Mar From the north, take I-5 south and exit at Villa de la Valle. From the south, take I-5 north to Del Mar Heights Road.
 
Insider Tips For good reason, Del Mar is one of the most popular beach communities in San Diego County. Great beaches, fairgrounds, horseracing, and a quaint, upscale village provide plenty of activities for everyone. Powerhouse Park, with a full children’s playground, is especially nice for families with young kids. Beachgoers can also find good, cheap eats at Roberto’s taco stand on Carmel Valley Road, overlooking Los Penasquitos Lagoon.

Coast Highway which runs through Del Mar is one of San Diego County’s best cycling routes. Start your bike ride in Del Mar and head south to Torrey Pines or north to Solana Beach, Encinitas, Leucadia and Carlsbad. Parking can be sparse in Del Mar, especially on weekends and during the fair and horse racing season. Best to arrive early and/or park along Coast Highway either north or south of the village.

LA JOLLA

Best attributes: Surfing; Shopping; Romance; Honeymoon destination; Ceremony & reception location.

La Jolla Highlights La Jolla (Spanish for “the jewel”) has European elegance, a sunny Mediterranean climate, and some of the most picturesque beaches in the world. La Jolla offers world-class hotels, restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. It is a hot spot for spa goers, surfers, tourists, nature lovers and has many perfect ceremony and reception locations. Fill your honeymoon with a massage and facial at a day spa or stroll the coast and take in the stunning emerald blue beaches and coves.

La Jolla beaches offer endless hours of fun and relaxation… from the pretty sandstone cliffs towering high above the Pacific at Torrey Pines State Beach to the crystal clear water at La Jolla Cove, an ideal snorkeling spot.

Marine Street and Windansea beaches are intimate coastal retreats perfect for romantic getaways or a quiet day at the beach with a good book. Whatever activity you enjoy, La Jolla beaches offer something for everyone:

Picturesque Windansea Beach – An Amazing San Diego Wedding Location

Windansea Beach
Down the hill, past La Jolla’s ritzy homes, hotels, boutiques and restaurants, lies Windansea Beach, flanked by surfers and sunbathers on hot summer days. With its sandstone cliffs, sandy beach, and incredible surf breaks, Windansea has been a popular surfing haunt as far back as the 1940s and a gathering spot of the Windansea Surf Club since the 1960s. The shack on the beach, built by surfers during World War II, is now a San Diego Historic site.

Marine St. Beach
Marine Street Beach is near the upscale community of La Jolla, a small cluster of high-end clothiers, hotels, shops, and galleries. It’s legendary to body surfers and body boarders because of its thunderous waves, which crash right at shoreline. However, this beach may not be ideal for families, as there are no pubic restrooms or picnic areas and the rough surf is not well suited to children.

La Jolla Cove
Not far from downtown La Jolla — an upscale hamlet of hotels, boutiques, and galleries — lies La Jolla Cove, a swimming and diving paradise. This tiny beach nook, part of the San Diego La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, is sheltered by picturesque cliffs and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean in an intimate setting. La Jolla Cove has some of the clearest water of all San Diego beaches, making it ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.

La Jolla Shores
Think palm trees next to the Pacific, green lawns dotting hillsides, and bougainvillea blossoms — pink, white, and orange — complementing the Spanish-style architecture of some of the most expensive real estate in all of California. La Jolla Shores, home to world-class resorts, is a 1 mile stretch of shoreline with parks and picnic areas. It also features a boardwalk that spans a length of the beach and is great for walking, jogging, bicycling, or rollerblading.

MISSION BAY

Best attributes: Water sports; Biking/skating; Honeymoon destination; Ceremony & reception location.

Mission Bay Highlights Mission Bay has more than 4,000 acres of bay, bike paths, and parks to play in and on. First named “False Bay” by explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542, Mission Bay supports all types of boating activities and has boat docks and launches. Other water sports include sailing, waterskiing, windsurfing, jet skiing, rowing, and swimming.

The Dana on Mission Bay - One of San Diego's Most Romantic Wedding Locations

For an adventurous honeymoon, rent a sailboat and cruise the bay or bicycle around the bay on the bike paths that wind for miles. Picnickers and sunbathers will revel in the endless supply of green grassy knolls at Mission Bay. The sports-minded can enjoy basketball, volleyball, and over-the-line games. If you’re bringing kids to the bay, take them to the playground at Tecolote Shores (1500 East Mission Bay Drive), which was designed to accommodate physically challenged children. Also see Mission Bay’s plant and animal life at the nature reserve near Crown Point to the north.

Logistics  Mission Bay has picnic shelters, barbecues, public restrooms, and showers. Lifeguards are seasonal and usually watch Mission Bay between spring and November. There’s lots of free parking at Mission Bay. Most lots are near the swimming beaches. But, beware, lots fill quickly during the summer. It’s best to come early.

Getting to Mission Bay From the north or south, take I-5 to the East Mission Bay Drive, Grand Avenue, Clairemont Drive, or Sea World Drive exits.

Insider Tips  If you like to bike, Mission Bay offers some of the best riding in San Diego. There are miles of paved bike paths, which are easily accessible from the many parking lots circling the bay.

Hilton San Diego Resort and Spa on Mission Bay - Bayside Wedding Ceremony Location in San Diego

Mission Bay is also great for kayaking, kite-flying (east side near Hilton), fishing, bird-watching and any other activity that works best in large, grass-covered areas.

Mission Bay hotel, package and attraction ticket reservations are provided by Advanced Reservation services of San Diego (ARES). ARES has developed a reputation for offering some of the cheapest San Diego travel and vacation rates found anywhere on the internet. We encourage you to compare our prices with other national travel resellers–we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised! 

SOLANA BEACH

Best attributes: Surfing; Shopping; Romance; Honeymoon destination 

Solana Beach Highlights  Solana Beach, situated north of Del Mar and south of Cardiff by the Sea, is a modest, mostly residential beach community offering uncrowded, family-friendly beaches and some of the best antique and art shopping in San Diego County. Like other beach communities in north San Diego County, the cultural heart and soul of Solana Beach is Coast Route 101. Along 101, you’ll find an interesting mix of surf shops, restaurants, hotels, arts-and-crafts galleries and everyday grocery and drug stores.

The beach lies below the wind- and water-sculpted sandstone bluffs that run the length of this community west of 101. Fletcher Cove Beach Park, a small beach with public parking, restrooms, and seasonal lifeguards, dissects the bluffs. This cove was constructed years ago by cutting out a portion of the bluffs with hydraulic water hoses and steam shovels. A 2-mile, paved walking and bike path has recently been constructed on the east side of 101. This path offers a comfortable course, safe from traffic, with benches to sit on and enjoy the unique flavor of this pleasant San Diego, California beach community.

Logistics  Fletcher Cove has public parking. From there, you can access the entire Solana Beach coastline if you don’t mind walking and the tide isn’t too high. More beach access is available along Pacific Avenue between Ocean Avenue and Solana Vista Drive, as well as along Sierra Avenue.

Getting There  From San Diego, take I-5 north to the Lomas Santa Fe exit and head west. Lomas Santa Fe intersects Coast Route 101, which you can take north or south for beach access. Easier yet, cross 101; Lomas Santa Fe turns in Plaza Street, which dead ends at Fletcher Cove Beach Park. The Solana Beach Regional Transportation Center is Solana Beach’s very own train station. Offering parking and a daily schedule of train and bus service, the Center is located on North Cedros Avenue just north of Lomas Santa Fe.

San Diego Beach Weddings - Solana Beach, California

Luckily for you, there are many qualified wedding photographers in the San Diego area. Nevertheless, you’ll need to do your homework and conduct some research before choosing the San Diego wedding photographer that’s right for you.

The following list details some of the questions you’ll want answered, and some of the information you’ll want to obtain, before choosing your wedding photographer:

Select a Wedding Photographer Familiar With San Diego Wedding Locations

1. How much experience does the photographer have?

In other words, how many weddings has this person photographed? Has this photographer taken wedding photographs in the same wedding reception location as you have chosen? There are so many fantastic locations for weddings and wedding photography in the San Diego area. Places that even those of us who live here in San Diego might not think about or be aware of. And the location within the location is extremely important. Balboa Park has some amazing places for engagement photos and bridals. But do you know from where those shots originate? Fabulous beach bridals would be amazing, but what beaches – and at what time of day will you get the best shots? Your wedding photographer should know the answers to these questions. Hiring someone who has knowledge of these great San Diego wedding photo locations is key.

2. What is the photographer’s style? Scrutinize the San Diego wedding photographer’s samples and determine if he or she meets your expectations for your wedding photographs. Some photographers specialize in photojournalism, formal, classic and candid, just for starters. Take the time to review the photographer’s books so that you can determine if he or she can accommodate your needs.

3. Who will be photographing your wedding? You may hire a well-qualified, experienced photographer only to find out that he or she has sent an assistant or associate to cover your wedding. Therefore, it is best to make certain that the photographer you hire is the person who will show up for your wedding.

4. Do you have a good rapport with the wedding photographer? You may have found the most talented of San Diego wedding photographers, but you simply do not get along with the individual. If this is the case, you may want to consider choosing a alternative photographer. A good rapport with all of your wedding vendors is essential, but especially when choosing a photographer, as he or she will be with you for the better part of your special day.

5. Is the contract clear and understandable? A clear, concise contract is especially important when hiring a San Diego wedding photographer, as misunderstandings and confusing contract language can result in an inflated bill, unwanted services or a less-than-cohesive wedding photography package. Be sure you clearly understand what you are signing. And do not be afraid to ask questions.

6. Can the photographer provide you with references? You should always check a wedding photographer’s references before signing a contract, as past customers are often the easiest way to determine if the photographer can provide you with excellent photography and great customer service. There are so many well established San Diego wedding photographers, it may be hard to know where to begin your search. Some of the questions you may want to ask previous brides and grooms when checking references include: Was the wedding photographer professional? Did he/she show up on time? Did he/she take all requested photographs? How was the quality of the work? Is there anything that you didn’t like about the photographer? Did he/she provide you with proofs in a reasonable amount of time? Are you happy with your wedding photographs? Would you refer this photographer to your best friend?

Choosing the picture perfect San Diego wedding photographer is an important decision. Taking your time to research your choices and asking each photographer you interview the above questions will ensure that your memories are beautifully preserved for years to come.

Choose a Wedding Photographer Who Understands the Style of Photography You Desire

 Learn How to Manage Tasks and Make Surviving Wedding Stress a Breeze

Relax - Planning a Wedding Can Be a Stress Free Experience

It’s down to the wire, and you find yourself pulling out your hair because the florist is slow at returning your calls, the tailor is taking too long to alter your gown, and you can’t decide which dish to serve at the reception. It’s enough to make any bride go crazy, but surviving wedding stress is possible.

Even if you have a wedding planner, you’re still facing hurdles of your own when it comes to surviving wedding stress, trying to make sure that everything flows smoothly on the big day. But what do you do when unexpected issues arise? Have you considered your plan of action and which stress-free wedding tips you’ll rely on if something goes wrong? In these instances, a hands-on approach to the problems you’ll encounter will solve everything right then and there.

So, with all the potential problems that can happen before and during your wedding day, how do you handle, manage, and overcome wedding planning stress? Here are a few of the best stress-free wedding tips that brides swear by to get them through the wedding planning stages.

Relax - Planning a Wedding Can Be a Stress Free Experience

Stay in Control with These Stress-Free Wedding Tips

1. Surviving wedding stress involves giving yourself enough time to plan. Your wedding is what you make of it. If you allot no more than six or seven months for an extravagant affair, chances are it may look like it was rushed. With extra time, you can plan, make changes, hire the right vendors the first time around, and choose the best venues that match your budget (because you can shop around). And if you’re in a rush to get married, opt for a simpler wedding ceremony and reception – one that’s affordable but doesn’t cause you stress in the long run.

2. Remember that a holiday wedding, while beautiful, is more stressful. Not only do you have a wedding to plan, but you have to worry about the added stress from the holidays. At Thanksgiving, for instance, you’ll have wedding guests coming in from out of town, and you’ll worry about a big dinner, while at Christmas, you’re focused on buying gifts and decorating–all at the same time. This is not to say that surviving the wedding stress (and holiday stress) can’t be done; holiday winter weddings are some of the most elegant, joyous events. But you need to keep in mind that you will have added stress to deal with. Make sure you have a dependable wedding planner who can offer valuable stress-free wedding tips, as well as many helpful friends who have the time to help you plan your big day.

3. Hire the right wedding planner – and get knowledgeable stress-free wedding tips. This is a given when it comes to surviving wedding stress. Of course, some brides do not hire a wedding planner, and that’s fine. Planners simply provide a sort of stress buffer for you and your family so that you can concentrate on other elements of the wedding. You’ll have the opportunity beforehand to interview wedding planners in your area to see if they can accurately align with your wishes and carry them out as you see fit. Plus, you can evaluate his or her personality to see if it’s someone you can work with on a regular basis.

4. Surviving wedding stress when one of your vendors goes MIA. Yikes! This is a tricky situation. You’ve planned for months that your wedding vendor will show up at the time agreed upon. But it’s the day of the wedding — what can you do now? If at all possible, try to find a replacement; this may not be feasible since it’s truly last minute. A missing vendor does not spell immediate doom however. Here’s your chance to save the day – if the florist doesn’t show up, make a pit stop at the local grocery store and buy all the flowers you can. If the DJ cancels, enlist a friend to bring along an MP3 player with music everyone can dance to. And if the minister calls out sick, there’s a possibility a notary (in some states) can marry you, or you can have an eloquent guest perform the ceremony. After all, once you have that license in hand, you’re officially married regardless.

5. One of the best stress-free wedding tips for you (and your family) is to avoid being a ‘bridezilla.’ Stress can bring out the worst in anyone, and tackling and surviving wedding stress is the most difficult. And no one knows it better than the friends and family of the bride, who may witness a change in her demeanor over time. There’s no need to subject your loved ones to your emotional outbursts. Always give yourself time to reflect and relax. You don’t have to spend every waking moment making plans. Trust your friends to help you when it comes to planning the wedding and surviving the wedding stress; don’t go it alone.

Begin with the End in Mind - Stress Free Planning Results in a More Relaxed Wedding Day

Proper Planning Means Surviving Wedding Stress

Managing and surviving wedding stress is not easy. There are so many things that might make you want to call the planning off! Just remember that one of the most helpful stress-free wedding tips out there is to make sure that you allow yourself enough time to plan and make the day right. This is, after all, your wedding day, and while everything will not go the way you planned, keep a smile on your face and appreciate the many people who made the time to celebrate with you.

Posted by Cherie Johnson of Creative Bride for The Wedding Source.com

The spirit of romance in Rancho Santa Fe began when Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford rode horseback across the valley at the beginning of their great romance in the 1920’s. This romance continues today at Rancho Valencia Resort. Dramatic views, impeccable service and award winning cuisine are the hallmarks of Rancho Valencia. This intimate and unique setting is the perfect backdrop for your San Diego wedding day celebration.

Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa - Lavish Outdoor Wedding Receptions in Sunny San Diego

Each wedding ceremony and reception, shower or rehearsal dinner receives the personal attention of a dedicated catering manager who will work with you to oversee every detail of your event. Relax and enjoy your wedding day as these consummate San Diego wedding professionals are intent on creating the wedding of your dreams.  

Rancho Valencia offers a myriad of wedding services for San Diego couples.  Our staff was amused that Rancho Valencia included “Elopements” in their list of services, although, after viewing these photographs we think those not anxious for a large lavish wedding reception are certainly going to love this venue for an intimate wedding ceremony. Following is a list of services provided by this fabulous San Diego wedding location:

-          Ceremonies

-          Receptions

-          Elopements

-          Full service catering

-          On site coordinator

-          Rehearsal dinners

-          Brunches

 Ideally set in Rancho Santa Fe, just 25 miles north of downtown San Diego, and 5 miles from the beautiful beaches of Del Mar, Rancho Valencia is truly one of Southern California’s premier luxury resorts, as recognized by its place on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2007 Gold List. The resort’s all-suite accommodations and world-class spa, tennis and golf offer all of the amenities to pamper the bride, groom and bridal party before and after the big day.

Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa - Elegant San Diego Wedding Receptions

Rancho Valencia, like every Auberge resort, delivers a completely immersive experience. We think you’ll enjoy the absolute essence of your destination and discover a staff committed to delivering every service and amenity with an unrivalled sense of passion. It’s a unique sense of luxury and classic sophistication, refined, yet always relaxed.

Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa - Idyllic San Diego Wedding Location in Rancho Sante Fe

Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa - Lavish Wedding Receptions in Sunny San Diego

Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa - Luxury Accomodations in Sunny San Diego

Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa - Luxury and Classic Sophistication

The winery was built with weddings in mind and the facility allows your event to take full advantage of what Temecula wine country has to offer. Enjoy your wedding ceremony surrounded by lush vineyards and celebrate at your reception with unforgettable food and wine in Wiens fully enclosed event pavilion, vineyard patio or intimate barrel room. Bride and groom suites are available on-site for your wedding party to use in preparation for the big day.

Wiens Family Cellars - Unique Winery Wedding Location in San Diego County

The food and wine at Wiens Family Cellars has gained a reputation for being superb. They are actually known for having superior red wine. “Taking special care to pair the wine with high-quality food to bring out the best in both the food and wine” is a talent taken seriously by the professional chef’s at Wiens. Your wedding reception at Wiens will be a memorable experience for all of your guests, especially if they appreciate fine cuisine!

We think the wedding packages at Wiens seem very inclusive of lots of valuable amenities. This San Diego County wedding location offers tons of value for your money.  Wiens also offers discounts on off-season events and reduced pricing, should you elect to have a Friday or Sunday wedding.

Wedding Packages include the following:

Wedding Ceremony

Ceremony Site Overlooking the Vineyards with Seating for up to 300 Guests

Use of Scenic Sprawling Vineyards for Wedding and Engagement Photos 

Private Dressing Rooms for Bride and Groom

Complimentary Bottle of Sparkling Amour De L’Orange and Refreshments in each dressing room

Complimentary Ceremony Rehearsal

Private Parking with Separate Entrance for the Wedding Party

Complimentary Parking for your Guests 

Professional Event Coordination

Wedding Reception

Use of Event Pavilion, Barrel Room, or Outdoor Patio

Tables and Chairs for up to 300 guests: 72” rounds or 6’ banquet tables

Your choice of floor length linen, up to 40 color choices available

China, Glass, and Flatware

Head Table for the Bridal Party

Gift and Guest Book Table, Placecard Table, DJ Table

Wedding Cake Barrel with Complimentary Cake Cutting

Dance Floor

Premier, Organic, Four-Course Meal Prepared with Local Ingredients
Vegetarian and Children’s Meals Available

Plated, Buffet, or Family Style Meal Service

Appetizer Hour including complimentary Sparkling Amour De L’Orange and Gourmet Cheese Display

One bottle of Wiens house red and white wine per 10 guests

Choice of Two Centerpiece Options and Votive Candles

Wiens Wine Cork Placecard Holders

Dramatic Up lighting Indoors

Umbrellas or Heaters Outdoors

Complimentary Sparkling Amour De L’Orange for Toast

Set-up and Clean-up

Exclusive Pre-Wedding Tasting Event

Professional Event Coordination

Wiens Family Cellars Celebrates with Frank and Anna Choi on April 18, 2009.

Real Weddings

Frank and Anna Choi had a fabulous winery wedding at Wiens on April 18, 2009. Here is what they had to say: 

“We absolutely loved having our wedding at Wiens! We looked into a few places in San Diego, but nothing stood out. I had considered looking into wineries but we weren’t sure we could afford a winery wedding. I emailed a few wineries for pricing information, and everything was over our budget. But then you did what no one else did, you followed up with me! After you offered a few discounts, you were in our price range, so we decided to visit Wiens and check out the location. After we saw everything Wiens had to offer we were sold! The property is gorgeous! Also, you were so friendly and easy to work with, my family fell in love with you! We knew we wouldn’t have anything to worry about the day of the wedding.”

Wiens is a family owned winery and their promise to you is this: “We hope when you have your wine country wedding at Wiens, you feel like you’ve been taken care of like you’re a member of our own family.”  This wedding location is worth checking out if you’re looking for a fabulous winery wedding in San Diego County!

Wiens Family Cellars - San Diego County Winery Wedding Location

Wiens Family Cellars - San Diego County Winery Wedding Location

Photography as follows: Frank and Anna Choi photos – Trailbrook Photography; Barrel Room – Hulse Photography; Event Pavilion – Miguel Pola Photography; Front of Winery – Hulse Photography

This lovely San Diego wedding location has professionally trained staff to take care of everything for you: They offer beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites with the luxury accommodations you desire for your guests and wedding party. Hotel Solamar features the exceptional outdoor Solamar Terrace for your San Diego wedding ceremony or their beautiful ballroom for a grand wedding reception which can accommodate up to 250 guests. Hotel Solamar also offers smaller spaces which make an ideal setting for a rehearsal dinner, post-wedding brunch or any of the many wedding parties surrounding the Big Day.

Hotel Solamar - Solstice Ballroom

Hotel Solamar only hosts one wedding at a time so they guarantee you receive the attention you deserve. Hotel Solamar’s pièce de résistance is the 8,550-squarefoot Solamar Terrace offering LOUNGEsix. Hotel Solamar’s glistening Shore Pool, private Shell Cabanas and 3,800-square-foot outdoor reception and banquet space overlooking Petco Park and cosmopolitan San Diego. It is San Diego’s premier rooftop deck venue, where function and personality blend to create a versatile space for any occasion. Solamar Terrace is ideal for out-of-the-ordinary wedding receptions.

Additionally, if you’d like any background information on the hotel itself, you can find it at Hotel Solamar’s Press Kit:

Photography by Tim Otto of Tim Otto Photography

Hotel Solamar - Stylish San Diego Weddings

Hotel Solamar - Stylish San Diego Weddings

Hotel Solamar - Stylish San Diego Weddings

Hotel Solamar - Downtown San Diego Weddings

Hotel Solamar - Solamar Terrace - Out-of-the-Ordinary Wedding Receptions

Hotel Solamar - Honeymoons Overlooking San Diego

Hotel Solamar - Refine Your Vision

It’s the day of your wedding, and the tips and advice you received from your mother, friends, and loved ones have paid off and you look and feel beautiful. Time has been spent arranging your hair just so, making up your face perfectly, and getting you ready for your big day. Many times, however, brides just consider the big picture – and often forget how uncomfortable they may be during the ceremony or reception in a hot, heavy dress with four-inch heels. It’s a bad scenario, but it happens. To keep you up, dancing, and mingling with your guests, here are a few of the most essential bride must-haves for your wedding day. With a little forethought and a carefully packed cocktail bag, you can be prepared for whatever the day has in store with these wedding tips!

The Top 10 Bride Must-Haves 

Essentials for Brides - Comfortable Shoes!

1. Comfortable shoes: One of the most essential bride must-haves is comfortable shoes. Imagine having to dance and walk around in those four-inch heels for a few hours. Sounds painful, doesn’t it? Not buying comfortable shoes is the reason that many brides switch to flip-flops during the reception. Though a quick wardrobe change is one option, consider testing out the shoes you buy well in advance. One of the more routine wedding tips that experts suggest is to walk around your home to break the shoes in and ensure you don’t get any annoying blisters in the process. After all, squinting and wincing in your pictures will not be pretty. And if you’re insistent on those pretty, but painful four-inch heels, bring along another pair of more comfortable shoes for the after party – some simple flats will do the trick! 

Essentials for Brides - A Comfortable Wedding Dress

2. Breathable gown: Much like your shoes, one of the best bride must-haves is a wedding dress that moves with you. A constricting dress will make you cringe as much as those shoes do, and tugging and jerking the fabric will damage it, not to mention alert everyone to the fact that you’re extremely uncomfortable. Try your dress on beforehand. When trying it on at the shop, if it feels too tight, then your wedding day will be no different. Move around and get a feel for the dress to ensure that you are at ease on your big day.

3. Waterproof mascara: Oh, there will be lots of tears shed – by you, your mother, your close friends, and family. But, you’ll be heartbroken when you see your mascara making bee lines all over your face. One of my favorite wedding tips is to wear waterproof mascara to combat the ‘raccoon look.’ Wearing waterproof mascara on your wedding day will keep your makeup looking fresh, and you’ll rest assured that you have no smudges to worry about. 

Essentials for Brides - Waterproof Mascara

4. Long-lasting lipstick: From eating to kissing, your lipstick has many opportunities to fade or smear away. Before deciding on one brand or color, try it out for awhile. Wear it while doing all the things you normally do to see if it has the possibility of fading, smudging, or smearing. And make sure you pack the tube of lipstick in your ‘bride must-haves’ bag!

5. Durable antiperspirant: Whether your dress is sleeveless or not, antiperspirant that stands the test of time is an absolute necessity. You want to stay clean, fresh, and sweet-smelling throughout the ceremony and reception, and one of the many wedding tips that experts suggest is to use long-lasting antiperspirant. The only way to guarantee this, of course, is with durable and/or prescription strength deodorant/antiperspirant. This extra layer of protection will give you more confidence in whatever you’re doing.

6. Small compact mirror: Throughout the ceremony and reception, you’ll be relieved that you had your little compact mirror on hand. Tucked away in a small cocktail purse with your other bride must-haves, it’s just a little bit of added confidence. You can quickly check for makeup smudges and reapply as needed or see if any food particles have become lodged in visible places.

7. Aspirin or Ibuprofen: Headaches happen. And so do aching limbs – usually at the most inopportune times. And as far as valuable wedding tips go, be prepared by adding a little tube of aspirin or ibuprofen to your ‘bride must-haves’ cocktail purse. Even if you don’t need it, someone else just might.

8. Stain removal pen: You can find these handy, little pens everywhere. Plus, they’re small enough to be tucked into your cocktail purse filled with your other ‘bride must-haves.’ Just make sure to spot test the pen on a discreet part of your dress before applying it anywhere during the actual event. Some contain bleach, which may harm the fabric. For quick removal of a tiny, but noticeable stain, however, these pens are a god-send. 

Essentials for Brides - Pack a Foldable Brush in Your Bag

9. Hairbrush/comb: Tame those frizzies and stay beautiful throughout the day. Another of my favorite wedding tips is to purchase a fold-up brush, which is ideal for a small purse with precious space. A quick dab of lipstick and one or two brushes through your hair will have you ready to meet and greet with guests.

10. Emery board: There is nothing more annoying than a jagged nail. Keep your freshly manicured fingers looking lovely by taking a quick swipe of the emery board (or nail file) across it should one break or chip.

More Than Just Wedding Tips – Valuable Advice

These ten bride must-haves and wedding tips will ensure that you are prepared for your big day. Weather the day effortlessly by testing out your wardrobe, makeup, and hair in advance as well as by packing a little cocktail purse with some of the essential bride must-haves listed above, like that tube of lipstick, compact mirror, aspirin, stain removal pen, comb, and emery board. Even if you don’t need them, you’ll be glad you had them. Think of these bride must-haves and wedding tips as a little helpful layer of extra protection.

Posted by Cherie Johnson of Creative Bride for The Wedding Source.com

Essentials for Brides - Plan and Prepare to Glow!

The following list highlights five of the hottest new trends in San Diego wedding décor.

· Accent and event lighting – Lighting is being used in so many different ways when it comes to stylish San Diego wedding décor. Instead of the usual up-lighting behind plants and trees, event lighting has gone high-tech. Couples are now using accent lighting to illuminate centerpieces and other key areas in the reception hall, thereby adding a whole new dimension to San Diego wedding décor. Many couples are incorporating LED lighting into their wedding décor as well because of its low energy consumption, low heat and long life.

Stylish San Diego Wedding Décor - Lighting Adds a New Dimension

· Ethnic Décor – A hot new trend for 2009 in San Diego wedding décor is the use of ethnic decorations and themes. Spanish couples are using Spanish-inspired design and mariachi bands, while Asian couples are incorporating beautiful tapestries and special Asian customs into their San Diego wedding décor.

· Lots of color – Bold, vibrant colors are making their way back into San Diego wedding décor. Expect to see bright yellows and blues, and black and white is expected to remain strong as well. Prints are on their way out, as is the chocolate trend of the last few years.

· Monograms – Elaborate monogramming, on everything from the invitations to the napkins and tablecloths, will be a big trend in 2009.

· Unusual centerpieces – Brides seem to be abandoning the idea of identical flower arrangements on each table in favor of unique arrangements. Some brides are now switching up containers for each table, and some are looking to group small assortments together to create a centerpiece. There is also a popular trend of small groups of centerpieces that can be broken down and given as wedding favors.

Wedding Trends - Floral Centerpieces Make Lovely Focal Points

· Layered table cloths – Instead of the plain, white tablecloth that has graced many a reception table over the years, many couples are looking to spice up their San Diego wedding décor by layering tablecloths of different colors over each table in such a manner as to produce a beautiful, multi-layered effect. The layered tables reflect the bold color trend being introduced into San Diego wedding décor.

 · Balloons – Although balloons at weddings are a far cry from the tacky balloon bunches of days past, couples are still using balloons to add whimsy to a modern or casual wedding. As San Diego wedding décor, balloons can be anything but tacky. In fact, many balloon companies are able to make stunning balloon sculptures and backdrops, and the use of iridescent balloons adds depth and dimension to any San Diego wedding décor.

Wedding Trends - White Balloons Make Elegant Accents

· Candy bars and dishes  Many San Diego couples are abandoning traditional floral centerpieces for candy dishes. These practical centerpieces can be filled with candies that can either be eaten during the reception, or taken home as wedding favors. Another new favorite is the candy bar. What could be better than a buffet table with delicous and colorful assortments of candy?

San Diego wedding trends for 2010 include bold, stylish designs and décor options that truly illustrate the unique personality, culture, and interests of the couple.

Wedding Trends - Earthy Table Setting

Wedding Trends - Candy Buffet

San Diego wedding ceremonies can be whimsical, awe-inspiring or jaw-droppingly beautiful. If you are exploring non-traditional ways to celebrate and commemorate your special day, then it may be time to look beyond the church and out into the beautiful surroundings of San Diego.

San Diego Zoo - Alternative Wedding Locations in San Diego

San  Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park

Many couples have shared vows at the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park – and for good reason. This exciting venue, aside from being unique and whimsical, provides beautiful backdrops against which to celebrate San Diego wedding ceremonies. What could be more breathtaking than saying your “I do’s” with an expansive savannah, dotted with graceful gazelles, towering giraffes and herds of rhinos at your back? Or perhaps a beautiful, lush setting amidst the tropical bird-filled lagoon is what you had in mind. Whatever your dreams, the San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park can make it happen.

Hot Air Balloon Rides above San Diego – With the beautiful San Diego area at your disposal, a hot air balloon ride may be just what you had in mind for a soaring way to say “I do.” Many San Diego couples have exchanged vows in a hot air balloon, while others have lifted off right after the ceremony. Whatever your dream may be, there are many great ways to incorporate hot air balloons into San Diego wedding ceremonies.

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego - Spectaculat Oceans Views and Distinctive Architecture

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

The spectacular ocean views are just the beginning of what the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego has to offer brides and grooms. San Diego wedding ceremonies are welcome here among the distinctive architecture and the open exhibition spaces. Imagine exchanging vows in the middle of a pristine gallery, filled with the ambience that is the Museum of Contemporary Art. From intimate receptions to large San Diego wedding ceremonies, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego can accommodate any type of wedding plans.

NTC Promenade – The NTC Promenade has hosted many San Diego wedding ceremonies. The unique indoor and outdoor spaces provide the beauty and splendor that so many brides and grooms are looking for in a wedding venue.

Consider the McMillin Event Center which boasts 8,700 square feet wedding ceremony and reception space, all of which showcase the historic grandeur of this event center. The Legacy Plaza is an outdoor plaza which is ensconced by beautiful, lush gardens and landscaping. The Luce Court is another outdoor wedding ceremony site that features a grand, 1,700 square foot water fountain as its showpiece. The Sybil Stockdale Rose Garden is an expansive, 5,000 square foot outdoor garden that showcases spectacular rose bushes, a large fountain and a terrace which serves as an ideal spot for San Diego wedding ceremonies.

For the creative couple, the possibilities for a San Diego wedding ceremony are endless. Whether you want your love to be surrounded by packs of wild animals or the most celebrated works of art, it’s all possible in San Diego.

The Beautiful Luce Court - A Spectacular San Diego Outdoor Wedding Location

From wineries in the mountaintops to luxury yacht receptions along the San Diego Bay, your imagination is your only limitation regarding the magnificent San Diego wedding locations at which you can celebrate your special day.

· Yacht Receptions – What better way to celebrate your nuptials than on a beautiful yacht? Sail up and down the beautiful San Diego Bay with picturesque views of the downtown San Diego skyline when you choose the Maritime Museum as your wedding reception site.

Outdoor San Diego wedding receptions usually focus on the beautiful sites of San Diego, and the San Diego Maritime Museum of San Diego is no exception. Set off on the 1898 Berkeley Ferryboat or the 1863 Star of India and discover their open-air sundecks, large dance floors and stunning, sunset views.

Hornblower Dining Yachts is another fine yacht company which boasts more than 25 elegant yachts for a variety of San Diego wedding receptions. The yachts of the Hornblower Dining Yachts can accommodate up to 475 guests.

· Vineyard Receptions – San Diego wedding receptions are at their best when celebrated amongst the serene mountaintops of some of San Diego’s finest wineries. From rustic, Tuscan-inspired San Diego wedding receptions to modern, sleek venues, San Diego’s vineyard reception locations are second-to-none in terms of quality, service and ambience.

San Diego Winery Wedding

The Bernardo Winery and the Ponte Family Estate Winery are two popular wineries for San Diego wedding receptions. The countryside location of the Ponte Family Estate Winery offers beautiful, panoramic views from either the garden courtyard or the amphitheater, both of which have been the site of many fine San Diego wedding receptions.

· Historic Receptions – San Diego boasts many buildings that feature plenty of history and loads of charm. Many of these locations serve as San Diego wedding reception venues, thus providing couples with beautiful surroundings and lots of ambience.

The Junipero Museum, for example, which is located in Presidio Park, is a mission-style building that was built in 1929. Many of the receptions of the Junipero Serra Museum extend from the museum and onto the beautiful, lush grounds.

The Darlington House is another popular site for San Diego wedding receptions, as it features a Mediterranean-style architecture that is both warm and romantic. This building, which was built in 1925, enjoys a close proximity to the beach, making it an ideal spot at which to host a San Diego wedding reception.
 
From sparkling views of the stunning Pacific Ocean to the secluded romance of wineries, San Diego wedding reception centers can make your dreams a reality!

The following list details the top 10 San Diego wedding reception locations (in no particular order):

1. Kona Kai Resort – Your perfect San Diego wedding reception begins at the Kona Kai Resort. Located at the top of Shelter Island in San Diego Bay, Kona Kai boasts a Mediterranean atmosphere and 13,000 square feet of banquet space. An additional, 20,000 square feet of outdoor space can make your outdoor San Diego wedding reception a reality!

2. The Star of the Sea – A spectacular, waterfront location provides the perfect backdrop to the Star of the Sea. This premier, waterfront venue is ideally situated above the San Diego Bay, and the spacious floor plans and expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows further add to the ambience of The Star of the Sea. Since 1966, the Star of the Sea provides space for both large and small weddings, as well as other events.

The Star of the Sea – A spectacular San Diego waterfront location

3. Hotel del Coronado – Known as the premier San Diego wedding reception site, Hotel del Coronado boasts an exquisite, beachfront location accentuated with romantic and grand Victorian architecture. From the ballroom to the garden to the beachfront, the San Diego wedding reception sites of Hotel del Coronado suit every type of wedding style or size, from casual to formal and intimate or grand. Hotel del Coronado has also been named the “Number One Wedding Destination in America” by the Travel Channel.

Hotel del Coronado – Known as the Premier San Diego Wedding Reception Site

4. El Cortez – El Cortez, in particular the El Cortez Don Room, sets the scene for a truly lavish San Diego wedding reception site. From the room’s 24-karart, gold-carved ceiling to the 10,000 square foot urban terrace, the El Cortez Don Room offers a spectacular site for both small and large wedding receptions.

5. Hotel Solamar – Hotel Solamar enjoys a beautiful, San Diego location and plenty of amenities to suit San Diego wedding receptions of any size or formality. From the boutique hotel’s rooftop swimming pool to the exquisite, formal ballroom that can accommodate up to 250 people, Hotel Solamar gives couples plenty of options and more than enough splendor for their San Diego wedding reception.

6. Grande Colonial Hotel – A beautiful, ocean view location sets the scene for a grand San Diego wedding reception at the historic Grande Colonial Hotel. Located in La Jolla, the Grande Colonial is an AAA four-diamond resort hotel recipient. With beautiful views of both the Pacific Ocean and the pristine beaches of San Diego, the Grande Colonial provides a romantic spot at which to exchange wedding vows.

7. Hilton San Diego/Del Mar – The Hilton San Diego/Del Mar is a premier San Diego wedding reception site which enjoys an enviable position in the heart of the area’s beauty. It boasts 17,000 square feet of event space and can accommodate up to 400 guests. From its two garden settings to its beautifully adorned ballroom, the Hilton San Diego/Del Mar is ideal for any San Diego wedding reception.

The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

8. Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego – The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is a stunning, waterfront hotel which boasts formal ballrooms and beautifully appointed accommodations. With the San Diego Bay as a backdrop, the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel is the ideal spot at which to host a formal San Diego wedding reception.

9. San Diego Maritime Museum – The San Diego Maritime Museum has become a popular San Diego wedding reception venue for the beautiful, downtown San Diego views, open-air decks and Victorian-era surroundings on its 1898 Berkeley ferryboat. The San Diego Maritime Museum offers a truly unique location for a San Diego wedding reception.

10. Paradise Point Resort & Spa – The island resort setting of Paradise Point Resort & Spa provides both indoor and outdoor San Diego wedding reception locals, as well as 44 lush acres of land. From indoor ballrooms to outdoor gardens, Paradise Point Resort & Spa is an idyllic location at which to host a San Diego wedding reception.

Top Ten San Diego Reception Locations

The El Cortez Don Room - A Truly Lavish San Diego Wedding Reception Location.

Dockers Waterside - Weddings at Sunset

The exceptional head chef and experienced staff are attuned to make your New York wedding day a memorable one from start to finish. Specializing in custom wedding events, their knowledgeable catering staff and chefs will work with you to create a menu which suits the needs of your event and guests. The friendly and experienced staff will handle everything, making sure your wedding reception will be seamless and relaxing. Dockers easily offers one of “The Most Beautiful Views in the Hamptons” and this spectacular wedding location will only help to make your event even more special and memorable. 

If an outdoor wedding reception is what you are looking for, Dockers offers an amazing, fully enclosed tent seating up to three hundred guests, ensuring that your wedding ceremony and reception will go on, rain or shine. For an even larger wedding event, Dockers has the ability to seat up to five hundred guests on their deck, outdoor patio and indoor tables. 

The possibilities are endless at Dockers. They always go above and beyond the expectations of their customers. Visit them online today for details.

Dockers Waterside - Amazing Wedding Location in the Hamptons

 I first spoke with the owner of The French Gourmet, Michel Malecot, a few months before our son’s wedding. Scheduled for Saturday, July 18^th, we had originally intended to prepare the food ourselves (yes, I am blond and half crazy) for what we anticipated would be about 150 people. As the date approached I realized the great amount of work, not to mention stress, this would cause leading up to and on the day of the wedding. I began my search for the best San Diego wedding caterer I could find.

The French Gourmet - Catering to San Diego County

When I first called the French Gourmet, the voice directing me to the catering department was very French. I was pleasantly surprised and remember thinking, “wow, maybe they do know a thing or two about French cuisine”. Many of the management and catering staff of the French Gourmet are indeed from France.

Michel spent some time with me on the phone to determine what we were looking for in the way of cuisine for our wedding reception. When we were contemplating doing the catering ourselves, we had decided upon croissant sandwiches and cool, refreshing salads. I asked if he would be able to do the same. He assured me they would create something lovely and had the proposed menu to me the same day.

Within minutes he had transformed my vision of our San Diego wedding event from of a bunch of ladies from our church sweating over turkey sandwiches and mixing fruit salad in Tupperware to an exquisite presentation of exceptionally fine and delicious cuisine. And he made it seem effortless. When I read the menu, I began to relax and developed a feeling of confidence about the outcome of this special day. 

The French Gourmet - Catering to San Diego County

We then received a call from our catering manager, who would be overseeing the preparation and presentation of our food on the day of the wedding. The moment I spoke with Edith (she also has a lovely French accent) I knew our event was in extremely good hands. I had the opportunity to speak with Edith a few times on the phone, finalizing details. She was always available to take my calls and always assured me everything would be lovely. When planning a wedding all of the details can be overwhelming and finding a good wedding caterer is one of the biggest concerns. She would continually offer assurance and say “Don’t worry, this is what we do…It will be lovely, I promise”.

Edity met me at the reception site a few days before the wedding and knew exactly what she needed to do within minutes to create the perfect wedding reception cuisine, buffet and ambiance we desired. She configured her plans to set up the display and buffet tables and even came up with a few helpful ideas for our reception. She was kind enough to offer to bring large umbrellas to cover the food and our guests, which had not occurred to me.   

The day of the wedding large coolers arrived at the reception venue. Edith and her staff arrived as planned at about 3:00 p.m. and immediately set about creating fresh and beautiful trays of fruit, delicious salads and delectable appetizers. The wedding ceremony would begin at 5:30 p.m. Edith had arranged for the display table to be ready with drinks and appetizers at the conclusion of the ceremony. Dinner would be served at 7 p.m.

The French Gourmet - Fresh Fruit Platter

 I cannot tell you what a wonderful feeling it is to pass by your caterers in the kitchen and see that they are creating cuisine for your wedding reception which is not only going to be tasty – as it smelled delicious, but so beautiful. Everything was prepared fresh on site. While I was focused on last minute details throughout the afternoon, I would pass through the kitchen often and watch as amazing platters of fresh fruit, beautiful varieties of croissant sandwiches, the most amazing green bean salad parmentier (very French), and spinach salad with strawberry vinaigrette were being skillfully prepared by Edith and her fine staff from The French Gourmet…all exquisitely delicious. We had guests who, admittedly, stood at the buffet table for 10 minutes sampling the artichoke fondue – while their small children ran unattended. And they didn’t care! The food was not only delicious, but the presentation was lovely. Our guests thoroughly enjoyed everything!

 We highly recommend The French Gourmet to cater any San Diego event you may have.  They not only cater wedding receptions, but are also available for holiday catering, corporate catering and all types of social events. These San Diego catering experts worked with us to create a menu and style which complimented our event and stayed within our budget. As a local catering company, they are able to provide china, glassware, place settings, skirted tables, party equipment rentals, waiters and bartenders, and references for many of San Diego’s top event specialists.

Here are a few of our favorites from our reception menu:

Artichoke Fondue: Artichoke hearts in a cheese fondue, lightly seasoned with pepper and garlic and garnished with fresh chopped chives ~ exquisite!

Assorted Mini Croissant Sandwiches: Freshly baked Croissants filled with a choice of: smoked ham and Swiss cheese; Turkey and Avocado; Roast Beef, Vegetarian, Chicken Salad and Seafood Salad ~ I think I tried them all!!!!

Green Bean Salad Parmentier: Tender, steamed Blue Lake green beans mixed with julienne of Swiss cheese, new steamed potato, purple onion and whole grain mustard vinaigrette ~ fabulous!

Fruit trays: The fruit they prepared was all fresh, sweet and delicious. Lovely melons, sweet pineapple, huge ripe strawberries and unbelievable sweet, bing cherries ~ amazing! 

The French Gourmet - Fine French Bakery

These San Diego catering experts worked with us to create a menu and style to compliment our event and stayed within our budget. As a local catering company, they can provide china, glassware, place settings, skirted tables, party equipment rentals, waiters and bartenders, and refer you to many of San Diego’s top event specialists.

Keep in mind The French Gourmet also creates amazing wedding cakes. We hired another fine bakery, but with what we experienced with the French Gourmet’s savory catering talents, I am sure their cake bakery must create the most perfect wedding cakes, as well!

We highly recommend The French Gourmet for any event requiring amazing cuisine prepared by an excellent staff! Many thanks Michel, Edith and the talented French Gourmet staff!

The French Gourmet Restaurant in La Jolla California

The French Gourmet - Sea Shell Wedding Cake

Tommy and Chelsea's San Diego Wedding

The wedding venue was a lovely private home north of San Diego, California. Tucked in to a peaceful valley in the small community of Poway, the back yard of a friend’s home has been designed to accommodate the perfect wedding ceremony and reception. A rock paved path bordered on both sides with colorful flowers, begins at their driveway and winds around the side of the gracious home through a beautiful arched trellis. There our guests were greeted by Chelsea’s Uncle Scott and future sister-in-law, Alyssa, and beckoned to sign the wedding guest book. The guest book table was adorned with several photos of the bride and groom. Gifts were left on a large table adorned with fuchsia kalanchoe plants and tulle. Proceeding a bit further down the path, wedding guests walked through the fabulous gazebo which sits on the north side of the yard. Following the winding path around the perimeter of the yard they were taken to the stone dance floor bordered by a waterfall and pond. The coy fish were happy to be a part of our wedding festivities and swam smoothly through the cool water. The grass area of this beautiful San Diego backyard is huge and makes the perfect outdoor reception location. It allowed us plenty of room to set up chairs for the wedding ceremony, as well as the tables for the reception. While it was still warm – about 85 degrees by then, as it had cooled down considerably – the breeze was soft. Our wedding guitarist Rob Szajkowski, seated in the gazebo, strummed a selection of beautiful hymns and classical pieces, thus lovely melodies filled the air as the guests arrived. The view from this yard is truly beyond spectacular, as it overlooks a golf course and other lovely Poway homes. We were blessed with the most perfect outdoor wedding venue imaginable and have much of it captured in photographs by our wonderful and amazing wedding photographer, Kate Jeppson of Jeppson Studios.

Tom & Chelsea's San Diego Wedding - Alexis, our flower girl heading down the aisle

The wedding ceremony began at 5:30 p.m. The grandmothers were seated first, as tradition was followed. I came next and was seated by my son – the groom – which was a very tender moment for me. He then took his place up front to await his bride. Chelsea’s mother, Suzi Camp, was then seated by her son, Casey who was a groomsman for Tommy. Bridesmaids followed, dressed in lovely champagne beige dresses with bright bouquets of fuchsia roses. Tiffany Wright, Chelsea’s sister, followed by Tiffany Jones, Tommy’s sister, Casey Long, Kira Riches and Kindall Fernando, the maid of honor. Next came the flower girl – Tommy’s two year old niece, Alexis. She was not happy to be the center of attention, but made it successfully down the aisle with the assistance of her mother, Robin Toth.

As our bride entered the ceremony venue, coming from the south end of the house, she may not have noticed the rows of chairs covered in classic white chair covers, or the fuchsia organza sashes adorning each chair blowing softly in the breeze. She may not have noticed the carpet of fragrant pink, white and fuchsia rose petals covering the aisle upon which she walked. She may not have noticed the smiling warm faces of her friends and family which had gathered to share her wedding day, or even heard the guitarist as he played Pachelbel’s Canon in D.  The bride only had eyes for her groom – and how they sparkled. Chelsea was the most beautiful bride. I found out later that one of our 3 year old wedding guests had inquired of her father if Chelsea was Princess Aurora, from the Disney film Sleeping Beauty. She truly looked like a princess.

Tommy and Chelsea's San Diego Wedding

The wedding ceremony was lovely. Performed by the Bishop of our church, a perfect blend of smiles and tears, laughter and joy, as well as beautiful and meaningful vows were exchanged. After the recessional, the newly pronounced husband and wife and their bridal party retired to the house while we geared up for the wedding reception. The first order of business was to move tables and surround them with the chairs which had been originally set up in rows for the wedding ceremony. A little confusing but it was accomplished within about 5 minutes. The disc jockey began to play Michael Bublé. Guests were invited to indulge in the appetizers as well as the wonderful chocolate fountain! Yum! Set up and provided by my wonderful husband Rick Muir. He is the owner and CEO of Sephra, the top manufacturer of chocolate fountains in the world. Yes, I am a lucky woman – chocolate is a big part of my life…

Our disc jockey staged an amazing Grand Entrance for the entire wedding party, bride and groom. He invited all of the guests to form two lines creating a large aisle leading up to the dance floor. Each couple of the wedding party was then announced and came up the aisle lined with clapping wedding guests. Music played. It was really fun to see all of our guests and bridal party having such a good time. The maid of honor, Kindall Fernando and best man, Cory Bookman, actually skipped up the aisle! The bride and groom were announced and entered while the DJ played “Its Not Unusual” by Tom Jones – get it?

Tommy and Chelsea's San Diego Wedding - catered by The French Gourmet

The rest of the evening was absolutely perfect. Guests mingled and dined on amazing cuisine prepared by The French Gourmet of La Jolla. I cannot tell you what a wonderful feeling it is to pass by your caterers in the kitchen and see that they are creating cuisine for your wedding event which is not only going to be tasty – as it smelled delicious, but so beautiful. Everything was prepared fresh on site. While I was focused on last minute details throughout the afternoon, I would pass through the kitchen often and watch as amazing platters of fresh fruit, beautiful varieties of croissant sandwiches, the most amazing green bean salad parmentier (very French), and spinach salad with strawberry vinaigrette were being skillfully prepared by Edith and her fine staff from The French Gourmet…all exquisitely delicious. We had guests who, admittedly, stood at the buffet table for 10 minutes sampling the artichoke fondue – while their small children ran unattended. And they didn’t care! It was really delicious.

The weather in San Diego this time of year is warm – especially in Poway, so we made sure we had plenty of refreshing punch and water. We served the usual punch and citrus garnished water, but my favorite was the cucumber and mint water. Our catering manager, Edith, sliced cucumbers and fresh mint sprigs and added them to beautiful glass beverage dispensers filled with cold water and ice. It was delightfully refreshing.

Tommy and Chelsea's San Diego Wedding - Wedding Cake by Edelweiss Bakery

The evening commenced with dancing. First the Father – Daughter dance was lovely, as Chelsea danced with her father Roger Wright. Then, the highlight of my evening was dancing with my son, while Il Divo sang one of my favorites, “Mama.” It was a very tender and emotional experience for me, as my son and I have always had a close loving relationship. It was nice for me to be able to share a few moments with him before he begins this beautiful new chapter of his life. He told me repeatedly, “It’s perfect, mom, everything is just perfect”.

As the afternoon turned to dusk, lamps which adorned the perimeter of the yard and candles on each of the tables were lit, and reception continued amidst the soft glowing lights.

The bride and groom cut the cake – a beautiful creation by Edelweiss Bakery, located in the Rancho Bernardo area of San Diego. Shortly thereafter it was time to for Tom and Chelsea to head off on their honeymoon. Guests lined the driveway and blew thousands of bubbles to send them off. They spent their honeymoon night at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in downtown San Diego, before heading off to Maui the following day.

Now after all is said and done, my son is a married man. I cannot imagine a more perfect or beautiful wedding. If we had it to do over again, I am happy to say – we wouldn’t change a thing. To all of you planning a wedding, enjoy every minute!

Tommy and Chelsea's San Diego Wedding - Bridal Party Jumping for Joy!

Tommy and Chelsea's San Diego Wedding - Here's to Us!

Tommy and Chelsea's San Diego Wedding - Our Lovely Reception Venue