For those with an insatiable sense of wanderlust, Disney Vacation Club® offers Members an incredible roster of hot spots to explore. And if a love for Theme Parks rivals your adventuresome side, then you're in luck. Disney Imagineer Jim Durham sat down with the Insider to discuss some of the newest Resorts – and how unforgettable vacation experiences are created by mixing some of the world's most amazing Resort destinations with the magic of Disney.
Disney Vacation Club features numerous locations, but Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas' Kidani Village, Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort, and the Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa are all located at Walt Disney World Resort® for unique getaways close to all your favorite Theme Park thrills. Jim mentions what goes into the planning phases. "First we select a theme that'll provide an immersive Guest experience. When we're building near an existing Disney hotel, the theme is already in place. So it's important for us to create an innovative environment that complements the Resort. If it's a freestanding area, then we have a blank canvas to develop a brand-new story."
The African-inspired architecture of Kidani Village reflects the vision of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. Guests can view animals in a savanna-style habitat from walls of continuous windows and a large deck area. Again, it's the attention to detail, including African tribal symbols and authentic African art, that sets this popular Resort apart. Imagineers also added an interactive outdoor water play space, complete with a slide, pool, and wet play area.
Kidani Village
The Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa are the perfect back-to-nature hideaways. There's access to shopping, restaurants, waterways, golf courses, and all the amenities of a full resort, but the environment is all about nature.
Treehouse Villas
Guests might not notice all the eco-friendly choices that went into rebuilding the Treehouse Villas. As Jim describes, "We were sensitive to the wetlands and didn't want to disturb nature. Each of the 60 units was prefabricated offsite, then lifted over the trees and 'dropped' into place with cranes – this allowed us to rebuild in a very difficult environment. But the best thing is that we were able to return approximately 70% of the land back to nature." Replenishable materials were used, recycling was key, and more energy-efficient systems were installed.
Aside from addressing environmental issues, the improvements made the interior living space feel more open and spacious. "We knew there was nostalgic value to those that have visited Walt Disney World for 30-plus years, which is why we kept the exterior designs close to the originals. Guests who stayed here as kids are returning with their own children and grandchildren," Jim continues.
Near Magic Kingdom Park, Bay Lake Tower boasts modern architecture blended with visual cues that reflect Disney's Contemporary Resort. "The team drew ideas from the Contemporary, which is an important landmark in Walt Disney World history. It's about what you do with the physical design, accommodations, and details within the space that make it an extension of the story."
Bay Lake Tower
Jim explains. "Even the artwork is filled with clues. There's a mural behind the Top of the World Lounge bar that was printed from a monorail drawing by Imagineer John Hench – it was one of his original concepts for Walt Disney World." Other hints of the Contemporary Resort Guests will find at Bay Lake Tower include the color palette, an emphasis on horizontal lines, an iconic element perched atop the building in a manner similar to that of the California Grill at the Contemporary, and the fact that it stands 15 stories high, making it Disney Vacation Club's first mid-rise destination. Having clear views into the Magic Kingdom – especially when watching the fireworks display – is a big hit with Guests.
According to Jim, learning what's behind details like these is part of the fun of a Disney Vacation Club stay. "Discovery is a great extension of the creative process, and it invites people to get involved. Cast Members can provide info or Guests can search for hidden Mickeys in carpet patterns, artwork, furniture, and even the architecture – everything's an extension of the theme. From a design standpoint, it's intriguing to know there's meaning behind every creative decision that's made." And when Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas in Ko Olina, Hawai'i, opens later this year, Guests can delve into Hawaiian art, culture, and customs for clues while enjoying a premiere tropical paradise.
When asked why he loves his job, Jim doesn't hesitate. "The best compliment is sitting in the lobby of a new Resort and watching the Guests' faces as they walk in – without saying a word, they're thinking 'wow!' They realize they're in a unique environment and have just escaped from their daily lives. We connect emotionally with our Guests – sometimes in ways we don't even understand."
Don't wait to live your dream ... check out Disney Vacation Club destinations and start packing your bags!
As of this day, the Walt Disney Company has operated longer without Walt Disney than it did with him. The company was founded on October 16, 1923 and Walt passed away December 15, 1966.
The romance of Valentine’s Day is spreading across the Disneyland Resort, and today we’re revealing some of that romance.
We asked guests in Disneyland park to share some of their romantic stories. One couple told us how they exchanged a ring under the fireworks. We also heard from newlyweds about their honeymoon plan, and another couple shared some tips for romantic dinners and attractions at the Parks.
Red and pink hearts are popping up everywhere for Valentine’s Day – they’re even at Disneyland park.
The Horticulture team at the Disneyland Resort is dressing up floral displays—including pink and red azaleas—with Valentine’s Day hearts, like the display shown here at Minnie’s House in Mickey’s Toontown. You can also see the Horticulture team’s creations at Town Square on Main Street, U.S.A.
If you’re not visiting the parks this week, I’ve heard the horticulture team is planning some other fun surprises for St. Patrick’s Day in March and Independence Day in July.
Even if you’re not visiting on a holiday, take a closer look at the plants and flowers around the Resort. You just might be surprised by what you find.
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it seemed like a good time to share a photo I recently saw for the first time. It’s from a unique anniversary party of two sweethearts: Walt and Lillian Disney. They are photographed with their daughters, Diane and Sharon, around a huge cake inside the yet-to-be-opened Golden Horseshoe on July 13, 1955, just four days before the official opening of Disneyland park.
It was the ultimate celebration. Three hundred guests were invited to celebrate Walt and Lillian’s 30th wedding anniversary. Invitees included Spencer Tracy, Cary Grant and Gary Cooper. Can you imagine getting this invitation?
WHERE: Disneyland . . . where there’s plenty of room . . .
WHEN: . . . Wednesday, July 13, 1955, at six o’clock in the afternoon . . .
WHY: . . . because we’ve been married Thirty Years . . .
HOW: . . . by cruising down the Mississippi on the Mark Twain’s maiden voyage, followed by dinner at Slue-Foot-Sue’s Golden Horseshoe!
Hope you can make it – we especially want you and, by the way, no gifts, please – we have everything, including a grandson.
Lilly and Walt
If you’ve haven’t heard the story, party guests piled into horse-drawn surreys and were taken down Main Street and into Frontierland where they boarded the Mark Twain Riverboat and sipped mint juleps. At the Golden Horseshoe Saloon (as it was called then), guests were treated to the very first, but unofficial, performance of the Golden Horseshoe Revue, created by Wally Boag, the original Pecos Bill.
Next time you visit Frontierland, step inside the Golden Horseshoe and imagine what that anniversary party might have been like nearly 55 years ago.
Happy Valentine’s Day! Our treat for you today is a list of romantic spots around the Disneyland Resort.
Sleeping Beauty Castle – So many fairy tales begin in the forecourt of this iconic castle at Disneyland park. Hardly a day goes by without one or two future grooms leaning nervously on bended knee before his princess-to-be.
Snow White Grotto (adjacent to the Castle forecourt) – Making a wish with your special someone is always a lovely idea, and the wishing well located in Snow White Grotto is perhaps one of the loveliest places to do so – especially if you are the prince (or princess) they’ve been wishing for.
Court des Anges, New Orleans Square – Located between the Blue Bayou Restaurant and the New Orleans Square Railroad Station, this “Court of Angels” is a secluded courtyard with picturesque winding staircases that create a beautiful setting for a quiet interlude.
Disneyland Hotel Rose Court Garden – Often the site of weddings, these romantic gardens are a sweet-smelling locale for a romantic stroll. This semi-secluded getaway spot is near the Wonder Tower.
Main Street, U.S.A. Railroad Station – Many Disneyland guests agree that trains are romantic. The observation deck of the train station affords a spectacular view of Main Street, U.S.A. and beyond, onto Sleeping Beauty Castle.
At Disney Parks, we believe in happy endings – and we’re also fond of fairy tale beginnings. Whether you’re looking for a sweet spot to make a proposal or just a quiet nook to wish upon a star, there are some great places to be with the one you love. Here are five more romantic locations at the Disneyland Resort (we shared five others earlier today).
Brisa Courtyard at Disney’s Grand California Hotel & Spa – This forested oasis is just steps from the Downtown Disney District, outside the luxurious hotel. If you’re planning a visit to this location, consider including a couples retreat to the hotel spa or a romantic dinner for two at the award-winning Napa Rose restaurant.
Paradise Pier Observation Deck – Located in Disney California Adventure park and overlooking the bright lights and bustling fun of Paradise Pier, this location sits above Paradise Bay and is adjacent to Ariel’s Grotto. If your mind is turning to a proposal, consider popping the question during the Love sequence of “World of Color,” just as the romantic melody of “So Close” from Walt Disney Pictures’ “Enchanted” accompanies a montage of Disney’s most romantic film moments.
Mark Twain Riverboat – If your fancy turns toward the historical, take your loved one back in time aboard this famous steamship at Disneyland park. From the top deck you can share a romantic moment with your First Mate and command a great view of Frontierland and New Orleans Square in the process.
Wine Country Trattoria at Disney California Adventure Park – Indulge your inner foodie with a table for two at this beautiful vineyard-inspired restaurant. If your evening includes a proposal, be sure to let cast members know ahead of time so they can help you make your special moment a perfect pairing.
Blue Bayou Restaurant – Nestled in the world-famous Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, this unique Disneyland park restaurant is romantic and full of ambience. With the soft bayou sounds accompanying your meal, you’ll feel a world away in this cozy corner of Disneyland park.
Here are some great tips if your upcoming trip to the Disneyland Resort includes a special romantic date or popping the question. If you are at a PhotoPass location, alert the attendant to capture your big moment professionally. If you choose a more secluded location, consider alerting the attraction or any nearby cast member to assist you with your personal camera, or help provide you a moment of privacy. Cast members at any of the Resort’s table-service restaurants are a great resource, too. Make your reservations well in advance and then ask to speak with a manager to assist in coordinating a special moment or table-service dinner proposal.
The quiet company of your true love can be the perfect compliment to a savory culinary delight, or step away from the ordinary and into a themed wonderland of the most extravagantly cultural fare. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, the great part about celebrating at Walt Disney World is its endless variety. One moment you can be clutching that special someone while falling 13 stories in a runaway elevator, the next moment you can sip an aromatic Merlot during a romantic, candle lit dinner for two. Here are my suggestions for the most romantic restaurants that Walt Disney World Resort has to offer:
There are over 100 restaurants at Walt Disney World to choose from. Reservations for most restaurants can be made in advance, so be sure to call 407-WDW-DINE to discuss different options and to make reservations. Book now to look forward to the romantic atmosphere and delectable delights that are waiting for you!!
Every February, across the country…candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged in the name of romance. Love is in the air and on the high seas!
You may be surprised to know that there are some very romantic escapes for couples on Disney Cruise Line:
Palo, Disney’s signature restaurant at sea, treats adults to sweeping ocean views and exquisite cuisine. Located high atop both ships, it’s the perfect setting for a romantic dinner. For true indulgence, try Palo’s famous chocolate soufflé.
For the ultimate in luxury, the Vista Spa offers Spa Villas, with an indoor treatment suite, a private outdoor verandah, hot tub and chaise lounge. With incredible ocean vistas and warm tropical breezes, the Spa Villas provide guests with a romantic retreat for two.
On Disney Cruise Line’s private island, Castaway Cay, Serenity Bay is a pristine stretch of beach exclusively for adults. At Serenity Bay, sparkling turquoise waters meet pristine white sand, palm fronds sway in the breeze. Walk hand-in-hand down the beach or relax in a two-person hammock.
Also at Serenity Bay, adults can enjoy a Couples Massage at one of the nearby cabanas overlooking the ocean.
Watch the sunset on Deck 7, aft. A little known spot, this secluded deck is also the location for many onboard weddings and vow renewal ceremonies.
With Valentine’s Day only days away, how many of you are feeling the pressure to find that special someone the perfect gift? If you’re like me, the quickest way to my heart is with sugary treats – and Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to indulge in sweet treats from the Candy Kitchens.
For those with a little more of a sweet tooth, I have the perfect recipe for finding something you’ll love. I took one for the team and taste-tested all of our holiday treats to pick the best for your Valentine. Here are the top five “sweet treats” that are “in store” for you and your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day!
Festively decorated cupcakes (Yum! Need I say more?)
Chocolate-dipped rice crispy treats (Always a crowd pleaser.)
Chocolate-dipped marshmallows and pretzels, topped with candy heart sayings (The perfect way to say I love you!)
Karamell-Küche hand-crafted caramel treats (Delicious doesn’t even begin to describe this delectable treat. Only available at Epcot.)
And, the number one treat to celebrate this special day…
Chocolate-dipped strawberries (Nothing sweeter.)
Keep in mind, while some of these special Valentine’s Day offerings will be available at candy locations at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, selections will vary. Believe me. you’ll be tempted to give these scrumptious treats a try. Do you have any favorite sweets to add to the list?
Special tip for all of you candy lovers out there: Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for an upcoming post with a behind-the-scenes look at the art of candy making.
Flowers or candy? It’s the great Valentine’s Day decision.
I adore chocolate, but on Valentine’s Day I always prefer flowers. That’s why I get to tell you about the new floral displays at the Disneyland Resort this month. (My colleagues will tell you all about sweet treats at the Resort later this week.)
The horticulture team is dressing up Disneyland park with beautiful yellow tulips, pink pansies, red azaleas and more. The floral displays include Valentine-sculpted hearts in the planters at Town Square. The hearts are reminiscent of Victorian Valentine cards, as some have a lace pattern and others have stained-glass highlights.
Here’s what to look for around the park:
At Town Square: pink tulips near the flagpole, yellow tulips and pink pansies in the lawns, pink and red azaleas in the bench planters, and needlepoint ivy climbing up the two-foot high Valentine-sculpted hearts.
At the Hub, on Main Street, U.S.A.: pink double-tulips at the Partner’s Statue; pink, yellow and white tulips with a daffodil mix; and baskets with shades of pink and yellow.
Minnie’s House in Mickey’s Toontown: A three-foot tall Valentine heart sculpture appears to be growing straight up through Minnie’s garden on her front lawn, and it’s surrounded by pink and red azaleas.
If you’re not visiting the parks this month, the horticulture team does amazing work throughout the year with holiday-themed décor, exquisite topiaries and the ever-changing “Floral Mickey” at the entrance to Disneyland park.
Here’s a quick look at some of the beautiful flowers and gardens that celebrate Valentine’s Day and add a festive touch to the Disneyland Resort.
Looking to express your affection in a big way this Valentine’s Day? Take a look at this year’s jaw-dropper.
That’s five feet of roses created with a special touch here at Disney Floral and Gifts. If you’re one of those over-the-top romantics, this will most certainly render your loved one speechless. It’s so big, we use a special delivery truck to transport it to your Walt Disney World Resort room.
Another one of my favorites for Valentine’s Day is our special Disney Dozen bouquet with a special surprise. We add a surprise “wishing rose” sprinkled with pixie dust and showcased in sparkling gold ribbon smack dab in the middle of 12 velvety red roses.
Look close and you’ll notice our rose bouquets have something in common – amazing presentation. It’s one of our secrets to transforming a simple bouquet into a memorable experience.
So, what’s the ultimate presentation? For me, it’s rose petals sprinkled throughout your room. If you’re looking to win a heart this holiday, that’ll do the trick and it’s easy to make happen at the resorts.
I hope I’ve helped you with some rose suggestions this Valentine’s Day.
From an over-the-top romantic cruise to a sublime sundae for two at Ghirardelli at Downtown Disney, we’ve come up with a half-dozen offbeat ways to woo your valentine Disney-style.
If the sky’s the limit, book Grand 1, the 52-foot yacht at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. You’ll float around Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake – with a front-row seat for the Magic Kingdom “Wishes Nighttime Spectacular” fireworks if you book that magical hour. Call 407-WDW-PLAY for reservations. Cost for rental is $520 plus tax. Dining aboard (additional cost) is arranged through private dining at the resort.
Victoria and Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa takes top prize for fancy-schmancy. Men, if you want to wear a jacket and treat your date to a formal dining affair, this is the place. A harpist sets the tone for the 6-course prix-fixe menu that changes almost nightly. Plan on at least two hours to dazzle your date with fab tastes from around the globe. $125 per person, wine pairings $60. Call 407-939-3862 for reservations.
How about caviar and lobster for two? Book your table at Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. Tucked along the waterfront, you can step out on the back deck for a view of the dazzling Magic Kingdom fireworks. For meat lovers, Chef Joe Wilson is offering filet mignon Oscar for two with jumbo lump crab, asparagus and béarnaise. End with a couple of luscious chocolate crepes. Narcoossee’s has a fabulous wine list and will do the pairing for you.
On a budget? Book a table for lunch between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Tutto Italia Ristorante at Italy Pavilion in Epcot World Showcase and be whisked away to a boisterous Italian trattoria for a three-course lunch for just $19.75 each (and not just on Valentine’s Day). Start with a salad, minestrone or fresh mozzarella, then spaghetti alla carbonara, veal saltimbocca or cheese ravioli with prosciutto and cream sauce. For a sweet ending, it’s a crispy cannoli with candied fruit. Take a stroll through the shops and maybe splurge on a Murano glass necklace.
For absolute decadence, we splurge on a bowl of the oyster and Brie soup finished with Champagne at The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You can share a Famous Brown Derby Cobb Salad, or continue the feast – Madeira braised lamb shank…butter brown almond-crusted black grouper…short ribs braised in Samuel Adams beer…but whatever you choose, save room to share a slice of the legendary Grapefruit Cake.
And if your sweetheart has a real sweet tooth, cut to the chase with a gargantuan sundae from Ghirardelli at Downtown Disney. Wild horses couldn’t us drag away from The Gold Rush, a peanut butter hot fudge sundae with vanilla ice cream, peanut butter melting throughout. Add a topping of whipped cream, chopped almonds, a cherry and Ghirardelli milk chocolate squares. Call it a cheap date.
What Disney characters inspire love? That question is something Denise Edelmaier, Product Developer for Dolls and Plush, asked as she began developing this year’s Valentine’s Day plush. I’m thinking she also asked how much cuteness she could add this year as these plush are adorable. I particularly love all of the details to which I learned is all part of storytelling.
“Each year, I like including Mickey and Minnie in our Valentine’s Day plush assortment,” explained Denise. “They are the quintessential Disney couple. Mickey and Minnie have a retro look this year which complements their festive attire well. That retro or vintage look is very popular in the marketplace right now.”
The colorful pink and red fabric that Denise mentions is found in elements on all four plush – from Duffy’s shorts to Minnie’s hat to Bolt’s collar. I particularly like the rose in Bolt’s mouth (then again, I’m a romantic).
“Last year, we created Marie from ‘The Aristocats’ for Valentine’s Day,” explained Monty Maldovan, the Disney Design Group artist responsible for developing artwork for plush. “This year, it made sense to have a dog like Bolt. I added some fun details to him like a heart with lightning bolt or the collar tag that says, ‘Love Struck.’”
Now that is funny. I enjoyed discovering those details once I got past the initial “he is so cute” reaction I first had while photographing him.
Another detail I liked finding was the quiver of arrows on Duffy’s back. I’m guessing that Cupid now carries a quiver of Duffy the Disney Bears like the one pictured at the top. Once again, he is too cuddly and cute (who wouldn’t fall in love holding him?).
Monty continued his thoughts about development.
“We started developing these items around Valentine’s Day last year,” said Monty. “The challenge for me was finding ways to incorporate that unique fabric print. We didn’t want any of the print to go to waste. I’m happy with the results as the plush look great together. Yet they are even stronger as individual items.”
I asked Denise if she had a glimpse into Valentine’s Day 2012.
“There will be two items next year featuring some beautiful nighttime dogs,” answered Denise. “But that is all I can say for now.”
David Tutera and Kirstie Kelly just released the book Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings, published by Disney Editions, an imprint of Disney Book Group. Just Click Here to see it at Amazon.com.
Many little girls begins dreaming about her wedding before she has even developed her first crush. She imagines herself walking down a flower-adorned aisle, eating a scrumptious cake, wearing a beautiful white gown, and dancing with a dashing groom. When the time comes for a bride-to-be to start planning her wedding, she often has a detailed vision of what it will look like.
Disney certainly knows a thing or two about making dreams come true, so what could be better than a wedding planned by the professional event coordinators at Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings?
In 1991 Disney created the Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings services to couples at Disneyland, Walt Disney World and Cruise Lines.
In the beginning, only couples with a valid California or Florida marriage license could purchase its wedding packages but, since 2007 even gay couples can have a commitment ceremony and they added the Honeymoon service.
People propose at Disney Parks all the time, so… nothing is more natural than get married there too.
I made 3 videos to show how those proposals happen and how Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings and Honeymoons can help your dream come true!
Disney's Weddings Part I
Disney's Weddings Part II
Disney's Weddings Part III
According to wedding industry experts, Walt Disney World Resort is Recognized as a top-ranked honeymoon destination and destination weddings venue.
The sky is the limit for themed weddings - from an enchanting Cinderella-like wedding in Magic Kingdom or a Hollywood extravaganza in Disney’s Hollywood Studios to international-themed nuptials at Epcot or a safari-themed reception at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
More than 1,600 couples from every state in America and from international locations wish to tie the knot at Florida or California every year.
The most widely used location for weddings, vow renewals and commitment ceremonies, is the Disney’s Wedding Pavilion on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, inside the Grand Floridian Resort.
The first wedding at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion was televised live June 18, 1995, on Lifetime Television as part of its “Weddings of a Lifetime” series.
The Imagineers designed it in a special way… you can see Cinderella’s Castle behind the altar and through a arch outside the chapel.
“The pavilion gives couples an elegant indoor setting with the romance of Cinderella Castle visible in the distance,” said George Aguel, vice president resort sales, planning and development, Walt Disney Attractions.
“Through the years, hundreds of couples have requested to get married in the theme parks,” said Randy Garfield, executive vice president of sales and travel operations, Walt Disney Attractions. “We have expanded our offerings and designed a one-of-a-kind wedding program to fulfill those special requests.”
Weddings at Walt Disney World Resort’s most famous venues are limited only by the imagination of the couples. Here are several possibilities:
Magic Kingdom
The romance of the fairy tale is captured as a bride, dressed in a specially designed Cinderella gown, arrives in a horse-drawn carriage. A fairy tale major domocarries the wedding rings in a glass slipper, a trumpeter heralds the bride’s entrance with favorite Disney fanfare and an elegant string quartet sets the scene. Couples exchange vows at the Rose Garden with Cinderella Castle as the backdrop for the ultimate fairy tale celebration in a place where dreams really do come true.
Epcot
Couples can choose from several venues around World Showcase -- The American Adventure, United Kingdom, France or Italy -- for an international festival featuring specialized food and entertainment. At The Seas with Nemo and Friends, a 5.7-million-gallon tank featuring more than 200 varieties of sea life is the backdrop for couples.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Screaming fans and autograph hounds set the scene. The bride arrives in a star motorcade down Hollywood Boulevard for an official handprint ceremony at the Chinese Theater. A reception follows in the Great Movie Ride attraction. The evening can end with “Sorcery in the Sky” fireworks featuring a personalized pyro show. Couples can even “take the plunge” -- literally and figuratively -- on The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Weddings are exotic at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. Couples can take their guests on an adventure into the wild with a safari-themed reception. Imagine African music, food and décor to inspire a beautiful African celebration.
DISNEY'S CAKE
This is the Mad Hatter Cake and you can choose the color combination... this one is for the Tea Party Brunch lovers.
For Princesses Brides, this is the Castle Cake. It's beautiful for her and huge enough for him :)
Disney launched a line of wedding diamond rings inspired by the Princesses, including: Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Princess Jasmine from “Aladdin,” Ariel from “The Little Mermaid,” and Belle from “Beauty and the Beast.”
The sparklers retail for $1,200 to $6,000.
Wedding prices begin at $4,500 for an Escape Wedding Collection gathering for two. Wishes Wedding Collection ceremonies start at $10,000 for 20 guests or more. An average wedding at Disney is approximately $20,000 for 50 people.
Disney’s Honeymoon Registry, which launched Feb. 14, 2007, is a complimentary online service that allows couples to create a gift registry for components of an all-inclusive honeymoon to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship, or at select Disney Vacation Club Resorts.
Have you ever attended a Disney’s Fairytale Wedding? I did about 11 years ago when a dear friend was married at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. It was such a magical event – I mean, who wouldn’t want to get married in the happiest place on earth? With Valentine’s Day approaching, I figured there may be some of you ready to tie the knot (or at least ask “that” big question). If you have been reading Korri McFann’s articles, then you are aware of the many opportunities we offer to create special wedding moments. But what do you give the happy couple? I walked the hallways of Disney Theme Park Merchandise and found several items with one common theme – a bride and groom Disney Ear Hat.
Megan Kachur, developer for ear hats, said the hats have been around forever (perhaps they were married long ago). These hats served as the inspiration for an entire art program developed by David Whitaker, Product Developer for Home and Décor.
“I chose the ear hats as I wanted a wedding message that was related to our Disney Parks,” said David. “I’ve seen many honeymoon couples at Disney who love wearing those hats, so it made sense to have an assortment featuring those icons.”
For the ear-hat art program, there are a variety of items including pins (the ultra portable item to inform others you are the happy couple); photo albums and wedding frames to capture memories from the special day; and my favorite item – coffee cups. Those cups sure make it easy to identify who gets what cup in the morning (especially when one is a little sleepy).
Another common theme I discovered was Minnie and Mickey portrayed as a bride and groom. There are some new figurines that look incredible (especially Minnie’s wedding gown). David shared some additional details.
“Minnie’s wedding gown has a pearlescent finish which makes it shimmer,” explained David. “I think the ‘over the threshold’ figure is my favorite. It is not only a great gift but I’ve seen people use it as a cake topper.”
My final (possibly favorite) thing I found was sitting on Maria Clapsis’ desk at Disney Design Group. Maria is one of our artists who designs Vinylmation figures. She created a one-of-a-kind custom Vinylmation set for her friends who were tying the knot. Talk about a personalized gift – wow!
So now it is your turn. Have you given a special Disney gift to a recently married couple? I’m sure there are others out there looking for some inspiration.
When I walked into our shop this morning, I took time to “smell the roses.”
Valentine’s Day is my favorite holiday. And even though I have been here at Disney Floral & Gifts for 8 years, I’m always so impressed with the volume of beautiful Disney bouquets we create. Disney has perfected the art of designing and delivering mass bouquets to guests all over Disney property – it’s really quite impressive. So with you in mind, I quickly got a hold of one of our Disney Fine Art photographers, Regina Blaney, to shoot some images to share with you.
As you walk into our shop, the room is filled with roses, mixed floral and rose bouquets that are being prepped and designed for delivery today to the resorts. As we get closer to Valentine’s day, it will get even busier…and it’s wonderful.
In a recent post, I featured our “Disney Dozen” rose bouquet. It’s our most popular floral gift which features the wishing rose in the center.
Here are the wishing roses, freshly sprinkled with pixie dust by Tinker Bell. Yes, she really does visit our shop each day.
And take a look at these adorable Minnie Mouse floral bouquets. Guests love these clever designs set in a Minnie Mouse “mug”. Did you notice her skirting. So Disney!
What makes Disney Floral & Gifts “magical”… one of our secrets is that each bouquet which leaves our shop includes an exclusive card and hidden surprise…
Overall though, we truly enjoy creating a one of a kind special moment just for you…. so you feel special.
