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Showing posts with label disney photo tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label disney photo tips. Show all posts

Saturday, September 29, 2018

Why I Think Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party is "Worth" it

A question I'm often asked, especially around this time of year, is if shelling out the extra money for a ticket to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party is worth it or not. To put it simply in my not so humble opinion...absolutely. As a cast member I don't pay to get into the Disney theme parks but that does not include the special events...so yes, I do have to pay to go to these parties and even though I'm at Disney all the time I still think it's worth it. 

For those who are unfamiliar with the holiday parties, in a nutshell, they are special ticketed events that are themed to Halloween (Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party) or Christmas (Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party) and they feature things exclusive to that event. An example are the parades and fireworks which are themed to the holiday and aren't shown on normal non-party days. Mickey's "Boo to You" Halloween Parade is my all time favorite parade at Walt Disney World and I think a lot of the reason is because I can't see it all the time so it's extra special. During the party everyone can hit up the trick-or-treat spots and this year I was so happy to see that several treat spots have been added within attraction queues. 

Another benefit is during the parties many of the attractions have incredibly reduced wait times. This is huge for some people but to be honest when we go we try to take advantage of all the special entertainment, character meet and greets, and special treat offerings since we can ride the attractions anytime. 

Now that I've pleaded my case here are the facts in black and white:
  • The party is from 7:00 PM-Midnight but your ticket gets you into the Magic Kingdom as early as 4:00 PM with the park closing for day guests at 6:00 PM.
  • There are two parade viewings and one {incredible} fireworks show each party.
  • Guests can trick-or-treat throughout the park and receive complimentary trick-or-treat bags.
  • You can meet some of your favorite characters decked out in their Halloween best. 
  • Guests are invited to dress up in costumes. 
  • There is specialty merchandise available for purchase during the party.  
Now for the massive photo drop off photos from fun times at Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party!



2018 

2017

2017



Not amused with the characters at all last year

Anna (Stella) and Elsa (Brynn)


The Maleficent Ice Cream (lime soft serve with chocolate horns) was a big hit 


At the end of the day you have to decide what's best for you but I hope this helps guide you to your decision. Comment below with any questions and thanks for stopping by!

Saturday, June 30, 2018

WDW Tips and Tricks: Q&A Round 2

I took to good ole Facebook for the next round of Q&A and I'll try to cover as many as I can so here it goes...

Photo courtesy of Faison Anne Photography

Q: If you have flexibility with your travel dates when is the best time to go for lower crowds?

A: Honestly the best times for low crowds are when kids are in school. In my years of living here the second week of January until President's Day is super slow followed by September after Labor Day until Halloween.

Q: What are you favorite toddler friendly table service locations?

A: We dine at Disney a lot and nearly everywhere is what I consider kid friendly but we LOVE the following places: Ale & Compass at the Yacht Club, Nine Dragons in Epcot, Hollywood & Vine at DHS, Trail's End at Fort Wilderness, 1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian, Rainforest Cafe at DAK and Disney Springs, and lastly the most relaxing meal you'll have...Sci-Fi Drive-in at DHS. The drive-in theater screen entrances kids and they don't talk, fight, or bother anymore...it's the true hidden gem of Disney.

Q: What are some, in your opinion, overrated things that people hype up but aren't really worth it if you're only visiting for a few days?

A: I get this question a lot and all I can only speak on behalf of myself...with that being said I think the Fireworks Dessert Parties are overrated and too rich for my blood. I'd much rather get a treat and watch them among other guests instead of shelling out $80+ per person. Also don't hate me y'all but I'm not a fan of Cinderella's Royal Table. I personally like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall's food and experience better. I'm not saying CRT isn't great I just think it's a bit overrated compared to some of the other fantastic dining options.

Q: What are your favorite spots for parades and fireworks?

A: Magic Kingdom fireworks=train station, Magic Kingdom Festival of Fantasy Parade= across from The Hall of Presidents under the tree for shade or anywhere in along the Liberty Square area and get there early, Epcot fireworks=the space between the Canada and UK pavilions, and my advice for Fantasmic and Rivers of Light is get there about 30-40 minutes before the show so you're higher up in the arenas so you can see better.

Q: Is it worth it to go to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party or Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party?

A: People always ask about this and my answer is always YESSSSSSSSS! They are my favorite thing at Disney and I will do posts on each party later on this year!

Q: What are your must-do attractions for a one year old?

A: First of all I definitely recommend always going to Magic Kingdom with one year olds because it's the park with the most baby friendly attractions. Here are our favorites at MK: Dumbo, It's a Small World, Peter Pan's Flight, The Carousel, and The Peoplemover. At Epcot we love The Seas with Nemo and Friends, Spaceship Earth, Journey in the Imagination, and Frozen Ever After for the littles and recoomend meeting Mickey Mouse at the Epcot Character Spot over the meet and greet and Magic Kingdom and here's why...Mickey at Town Square Theater at MK talks and honestly it's a recipe for disaster for little ones because it's a sensory overload. If you've seen my social media you know that Brynn LOVESSS meeting characters but even she was scared of Mickey at Magic Kingdom.

Q: Best photo spots around WDW property

A: This is an excellent question and I'm currently working on a post for this very topic so stay tuned!

Q: How should we reveal to our kids that we're going to Disney

A: I gave this idea to a friend years ago and it was a huge hit! Get three boxes for When-How-Where...in the first box (when) wrap a calendar with the date you get there circled. In the second box (how) wrap a toy of how you're getting there...a little plane or car that looks like your's. In the last box (where) wrap something like a Disney shirt, Mickey Mouse plush, autograph, or even a picture of Cinderella Castle. Oh and no matter how you reveal it make sure you video it!

Q: What are your favorite grown up attractions?

A: In no particular order...Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Space Mountain, Soarin', Mission Space, Tower of Terror, Rockin' Rollercoaster, Flight of Passage, Expedition Everest. Also I love going to the videos at the pavilions in Epcot's World Showcase...to a kid they're boring but as an adult they are so inspiring and make you want to travel, Travel, TRAVEL!!!

Q: What shoes should I wear?

A: Comfort over style 100% for the entire family! I recommend something with support that will help your feet because you're going to be walking a ton! The quickest way to spot a local is the shoes...we don't stay in the park as long so we wear more stylish shoes usually lol! Also take the advice of Lt. Dan from Forest Gump and bring a spare pair of socks for everyone because nothing is worse than wet socks.

Q: Is Bippity Boppity Boutique worth it?

A; I haven't had the joy of taking Brynn there yet because the minimum age is three but I'll put it this way...as a grown woman how do you feel after getting your hair and makeup professionally done? Imagine that feeling but times a hundred because it's pure joy from a little girl...so in my humble opinion...YES! It's totally worth it!

Q: What are your can't miss snacks?

A: This is a loaded question because I love so many snacks but here are my top five...Dole Whip Swirl (pineapple and vanilla), Zebra Domes from The Mara at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, The School Bread from the Norway pavilion, The Brioche Ice Cream Sandwich from the France pavilion, and the ever classic Mickey Pretzel and cheese.

Q: If we're going to "splurge" on something what do you suggest?

A: If I've said it once I'll say it a thousand times...A PHOTO SESSION in the parks. It's my favorite souvenir and I'm blessed to call one of the best photographers in Orlando my friend and highly suggest booking her...you can find out more info about Faison HERE.

That's all for this round folks! More questions? Comment below and I'll put it in the next round of Q&A. Thanks for stopping by and stay tuned for more Disney posts about photo spots and seasonal holiday offerings and guides!


Monday, May 14, 2018

Brynn's First Haircut: Harmony Barber Shop

One of my favorite things about having Walt Disney World as our backyard is making Brynn's milestones well MAGICAL! Years ago when I started at Disney I learned about the First Haircut Package at the Harmony Barbershop in Magic Kingdom. I knew when the time came for my little one to have their haircut that is where it had to be. So with Brynn's bangs obstructing her vision I finally made her big appointment. While the barbershop can occasionally accommodate walk-up appointments I highly suggest making a reservation by calling 407-939-PLAY.


An occasion like this calls for all the bells and whistles aka a squad and some paparazzi...enter Brynn's godmother Katie, Uncle Mario, and Photographer of the Disney Instagram Stars Faison. I still can't believe how great of a support system we have here in Florida. They always take time out of  their days for little moments like this and I couldn't be more grateful. We got to the Magic Kingdom, checked in for the appointment, and stood outside of the barbershop and watch the Festival of Fantasy Parade go by. Brynn's name was called and we all ventured inside the {very small} shop.




The stylists are beyond amazing at making the little ones comfortable and more importantly entertained during the haircut. Our stylist had stickers, toys, and light-up spinners to keep Brynn occupied. She was quick yet precise with trimming her bangs and helped me get her hair into pigtails after her bangs were finished. The Baby's First Haircut Package included the haircut, a little keepsake bag with a lock of their hair, a certificate, and a pair of "my first haircut" mouse ears all for a only $25!                                         




 I literally can't even with this cuteness




After a quick outfit change (because someone got cookie icing all over herself) we hopped over to Main Street for a much anticipated...world famous...balloon picture by Faison! Y'all she got these shots in a matter of seconds and I absolutely LOVE them! Her parents were in town and she came all the way over to Magic Kingdom to take these beyond precious photos. If you make a trip to Disney YOU MUST book a park session with her! She is the best of the best!



I'm so glad we did Brynn's first haircut here and I would highly recommend it if you're thinking about it. If you're looking for more tips and tricks for your trip to WDW head over to Instagram and follow DisneyMomSquad! Until next time...have a magical day!

All photos courtesy of Faison Anne Photography


Friday, April 21, 2017

WDW Tips & Tricks: Let Me Upgrade Your Souvenir Game

Trust me...I once to was the big eyed Disney fan buying up all the t-shirts, character plush animals, and random knickknacks in the parks but now I'm older and wiser to the Disney game. Today I want to share with you my favorite Disney souvenirs that are anything but basic...


Guided Tours 

I'll go ahead and admit that I'm totally biased when it comes to this one because I was a tour guide at Walt Disney World but I promise you'll love this alternative souvenir. Clearly you're a fan of Disney otherwise you wouldn't be spending your hard earned money on a trip there so why not ditch the $80 sweatshirt and coffee mug in The Emporium for a behind the scenes look at a place you love.

Yours truly giving the UnDiscovered Future World Tour

If you're a big Magic Kingdom fan and have always dreamed about walking through those famous Disney tunnels Disney's Keys to the Kingdom  is the tour for you...find more details on it HERE.

If Epcot is your park of choice I highly suggest The UnDiscovered Future World Tour because it was my favorite tour to give. You learn about the history of why Epcot is designed the way it is and why if Walt didn't have the dream of Epcot the Walt Disney World you know and love today might not exist....you can find more details on it HERE.

Caring for Giants is a great option for families (with kids age 4 and over) over at Disney's Animal Kingdom and you can get all the details HERE because who doesn't want a behind the scenes look at the amazing animals.

I had the pleasure of experiencing the fun and interactive Disney's Family Magic Tour a few years ago with my younger cousin, Will, and my mom. All the kids on the tour had a blast and us adults didn't stop laughing...mostly at each other acting like kids. You can get more information about that tour HERE.

Throwback to Segway tours at Epcot that I also gave that unfortunately are no longer offered at Epcot

Silhouettes

This is something I only started doing once I had my daughter but it's quickly become a must-do for us every visit. At various locations around The Walt Disney World Resort you can have an incredibly talented artist cut a silhouette for you. The fee is practically free compared to how much hand cut silhouettes are anywhere else in the world. So here are the details on the prices...a single is $12, for two people it's $20, for three people it's $24, and for a group of four it's $27. You get two "copies" of each silhouette done (oh hey gifts for grandparents) and you can purchase a frame for a mere $8.95 so you don't have to hunt down one at your local Hobby Lobby. If you have children GET THIS DONE EACH TRIP and I promise you'll love seeing how much they change.



Locations:

Magic Kingdom- Outside the Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe in Liberty Square by the bridge

Epcot- The French Pavilion in World Showcase across from Chefs de France (i.e. the pics above)

Disney Springs- A small kiosk by the carousel near Earl of Sandwich and Once Upon a Toy


Our framed silhouette of Brynn (4 months old)

Professional Photo Session 

You are spending a small fortune on a trip to WDW so why not have some amazing tangible memories captured of you and your crew.

A few years ago (2011) I booked a session with Disney Fine Art Photography for my mom and I for Mother's Day and they were good but the quality has come a long way since then. I'm such a picture person that I want professional photos taken as much as I can. I love having a beautiful memory captured with EVERYONE in the photo.


My favorite "Disney Family" The Brankamps (I met them when I was working at Disney and we have stayed in touch for several years) had a session taken by them during their stay last year and even got a few senior shots for their oldest, Meg.



If you want more custom tailored family portraits check out Faison Anne Photography for an amazing session! I recently stumbled across this central Florida local on IG (you can follow her HERE) and she knows the parks well and is able to capture the most beautiful "in park" photos I have ever seen. She's a mom who takes her adorable son to the parks often so she understands more than anyone on how to capture the magic children have while at Disney. Her sessions provide way more options as far as location and style than the DFAP and you're supporting a small business! To be honest I'm surprised someone from the WDW Media team hasn't snatched her up for some campaign shoots. I for one can't wait for my personal session with her and when you book your session tell her I sent ya! Here are some of my favorite shots of her photography.




So there are my two cents on my favorite Disney souvenirs. Have you done any of these? What are your favorite Disney souvenirs? Comment below!