Vow-Friendly Venues
by Shawn Miller

In ancient times, weddings would last days, the venue shifting with each traditional celebration from parents’ to in-laws’ to the abode of the newly wedded. These days, couples have but one day to call their own, so the site selected for murmurs of “forever” and “I do” — it is rare in our modern times for these celebrations to occur in the family home — must enable the gathering together of not just hearts and minds, but floral arrangements, linens, and fashion ensembles in a style reflecting a couple’s truly unique vision. Taste and definitions of perfection among betrothed are limited only by the number of couples themselves, so it’s a good thing that whether you prefer to exchange vows amidst clusters of vines, on seaside bluffs, or in sophisticated luxury, it’s all attainable in San Diego.

La Costa Resort & Spa
One manifestation of this world class resort’s recent extreme makeover is a new, 18,000-square-foot ballroom. And of course, one of the greatest advantages to choosing a locale that boasts two PGA championship 18-hole golf courses, a spa that sets international standards for quality and quantity of services offered, and award winning cuisine, is that you don’t have to settle for just a special day. Book an entire week before the wedding to relax and play with family and friends, then arrive at your wedding relaxed, refreshed, and with relationships renewed.

The Inn At Rancho Santa Fe
Intimate, private, and elegant are perhaps understated descriptions of this 20-acre property that emanates an ambience more country estate than glitzy resort. The Inn offers the utmost in flexibility — there are no packages that must be adhered to. Instead, choose from among several banquet, sit-down, or even appetizer only reception menus to truly customize your event. A couple things to note: outdoor weddings need to end by 10pm due to local noise ordinances; indoor weddings by midnight.

The Lodge At Torrey Pines
The 10,000-square-foot Arroyo Terrace is a particular highlight of this award-winning — including San Diego’s only 2003 and 2004 AAA Five Diamond rating — location’s myriad indoor and outdoor settings. Accommodating 250 with ease, the sounds of nature and smells of the ocean mingle with declarations of forever and mouthwatering scents of the resort’s award-winning cuisine in this outdoor space in spectacular fashion. World class golf, spa services, unmatched cuisine, and all the amenities La Jolla has to offer make reserving a room here for several days leading up to the ceremony a truly indulgent option.

El Cortez Hotel
If history and tradition are important, the El just might be ideal. Built on the site of Ulysses S. Grant, Jr.’s former home, the property’s 10,000-square-foot outdoor garden terrace with wood burning fireplace is a warm, sophisticated setting and is adjoined through traditional architectural arches by the property’s 3,300-square-foot Don room, an ultra-classy, 24-carat gilded ballroom. Both choices, either separately or together, provide an ideal blend of history and urban refinement. Choose among the hotel’s preferred list of caterers or use your own favorite.

Callaway Winery
Lush acres of vines, fields of wildflowers, and panoramic mountain views are signatures of the Temecula wine country, and nestled amidst this serenity is Callaway Winery. Choose one of three wedding packages — one buffet or two seated dinner menus — that include a limited quantity of wine and champagne, linens and centerpieces, setup and clean up. On-site wedding consultants are available to absorb stress and present a wide range of services, including complete coordination of all vendors, answers to etiquette questions, catering services, and rehearsal attendance.