Anyone know a lot about Big Bear? I am trying to plan a weekend trip but I've never been!?

I'd like to plan a weekend trip to Big Bear to ski and I've never been there before... I've never been skiing before either. I'm looking for recommendations for a group of first time skiers - instructions or a fun cl and also where to stay. I prefer upscale lodging with either a familiar hotel brand (Marriott, Hilton, etc) or cabin recommendations.