I got married last December and like most brides, I wanted my wedding to be perfect. The photography, food, venue, accomodations..you name it. It's hard to have a Platinum Wedding like the ones you see on TLC when you're planning it solo. The best lesson I learned from my experience of wedding planning: it helps to have someone coordinate and organize your wedding. There are so many little details and no bride should have to worry from the beginning to the end of her big day.

I've worked for ResorTime and have booked reservations for quite a few people at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa (http://www.resortime.com/resorts/profile.asp?resortid=620) for over a year. I've also read a lot of testimonials from guests who've stayed at our resorts. And it turns out that a lot of people have had or experienced a memorable wedding at Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa. Not only does this resort have a group of highly trained professionals on their 5 Star property (from valets, to chefs, to concierages), but what they offer is beyond compare. They fall into the category of  " all inclusive wedding packages" for a bride and groom. 

The beach is minutes away so guests can have something to do after they check in to their rooms, There is Legoland and Sea Life Aquarium next door for anyone with children. The Crossings golf course (http://www.thecrossingsatcarlsbad.com/layout10.asp?id=182&page=3854) is located next to the property for the groom and his groomsmen or any other guys who'd like to play a few rounds.The Ocean Pearl Spa (http://www.oceanpearlspa.com/) is located within the resort and is full service so the bride will know that she and her ladies will be pampered before the big day. I've actually been to the Ocean Pearl Spa numerous times and the women are very helpful and highly skilled in what they do. There are plenty of massage, pedicure, manicure and facial options to choose from. In addition, the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa has several ballrooms that range in size from 602 square feet to 7,875 square feet.This gives the bride and groom options of where they would like to have their reception and/or rehearsal. There is also a listing of possible officiants for the bride and groom but they are also flexible with the couple's preferences.

My favorite part of the whole resort is the restaurant, of course. The chefs are amazing and the Twenty/20 Grill & Wine Bar (http://twenty20grill.com/) on site will provide custom designed menus based upon client needs and their gourmet selection is beyond compare. Not only will they provide a sit down meal, they will also cater with a buffet and take care of the wedding cake and drinks as well. I've been to this restaurant quite a few times and have been amazed at how wonderful the staff has been.

Yes, I know there are plenty of places to get married in and around America's Finest City. San Diego is a beautiful place period. But for anyone who wants to have everything organized and perfectly designed in one central location, I would highly recommend the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa: http://southerncalifornia.destinations.starwoodhotels.com/weddings/sheraton_carlsbad/index.html. The location is perfect and I know quality when I see it. And believe me, this resort is a diamond in the rough...no pun intended.