Walt Disney World Archives - Page 13 of 22

Disney Sports Solutions At ESPN Wide World Of Sports

Playing in a tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at the Walt Disney World Resort is a dream come true for many athletes, and getting there is often a labor of love for Team Parents! Disney Sports Solutions helps make the process so much easier! From fundraising support to photography to custom event merchandise, they have help for you and your team.

Gene Kousoulas, Head Coach of Tappan Zee Softball Team, has brought several teams to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex over the years, and always looks forward to returning.

“The team is always excited to be traveling away from New York, and the fields at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex are always great” say Kousoulas.

Mr. Kousoulas also encourages teams to communicate as much as they can with their Disney Travel Coordinators, because they are there to help and are always ready with solutions.

At a Team Mom Breakfast held in the ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill, Marybeth, a specialized Cast Member, helped several Team Moms whose teams were playing at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex get to know some of the facilities and services offered at the Complex better. Also, they held some pretty great giveaways that were special bonuses for the teams.

The first thing that Marybeth introduced us to was the Welcome Center. The Welcome Center is really the heart and soul of the ESPN Wide World of Sports. It is centrally located in the Complex, and is available to help in any way that they can. At the Welcome Center you’ll find Cast Members who are solutions oriented with extensive training in Sports Travel, Guest Relations, and Event Planning. If you have questions about what to do before and after your competition, this is your one stop for purchasing Disney Theme Park Tickets, making Disney Dining Reservations, finding Recreation Options, Golf Reservations, Planning Celebration Events, and Transportation Tips just to name a few.

If you are out on the fields and need information, help is never too far from even the outermost field! Welcome Center Cast Members are always at the fields and for larger events there are mobile stations set-up around the complex.

There are several dining options at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, but for busy teams on the go there are several ways to make sure that your team is fueled with healthy food that doesn’t take away from their time at the Complex. The first option available is box breakfasts and lunches. These meals are made fresh daily ($6.99 per breakfast and $7.99 per lunch), can be ordered online prior to arrival, are customizable for team members with allergies, and most importantly can be delivered directly to the field where you are playing.

We got to have a breakfast box during the Team Mom Breakfast, and it was a good amount of food that was great fuel for the day. However, you can also have pizzas delivered to your field, there are several quick service options, and there is always the ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill.

The ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill is a quick-service restaurant located near the entrance of the Complex. The Grill is perfect for large groups, and is a high energy environment with six HD displays playing sports and sports news, a full-service bar, and even a replica of the ESPN SportsCenter Desk for fun photo opportunities for your team! My favorite feature is the bank of Coca-Cola Freestyle Machines…but I am a sucker for Cherry Coke!!!

ESPN Wide World of Sports Gameday Photos provides teams with photo solutions that are extremely unique and high quality!

The Gameday Photos photographers are highly trained to catch just the right moment in your athlete’s game, and are available for individual or team pictures. The best part of the Gameday Photography is that once you purchase the CD of images, which are guaranteed to have at least 150 photos, the rights to those pictures are yours and you can print out and share them as much as you can with friends and family!

If you want to take part in this really personal photography experience, you will want to make arrangements in advance. It is also important to know that the sessions are pre-paid and scheduled by the game, however there are multiple game discounts available. Individual Gameday Photos start at $99 for a single game and Team Gameday Photos start at $169 for a single game.

Events at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex are recorded and broadcasted in several different ways to really make athletes feel like they have really made it to the big leagues!

The dedicated video department at Wide World of Sports is truly a Disney-Sized ESPN with a control room, editing bays, and bustling camera operators. It is truly an amazing thing to see!

Parents, coaches, and athletes are able to watch game highlights on a channel 25 in their Walt Disney World Resort hotel room, often games are broadcasted live on ESPN3.com, and highlights are shown on various ESPN platforms such as ESPN.com, ESPN2, and SportsCenter.

Sharing your video highlights with friends and family at home is also easy, because ESPN Wide World of Sports makes some event games available on their YouTube channel and their Facebook Page.

The Custom Tee Center by Champion® is a way to customize your experience at the ESPN Wide World of Sports! After purchasing an event or customizable t-shirt, visit the Custom Tee Center by Champion® to really make the shirt your own. With more than 50 designs available to commemorate your accomplishments, the Center located inside the entrance to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill is a must-do in the Complex!

A visit to the Playstation® Pavilionis a great way to keep the game going! These seventeen PS3™ systems on 40-inch HDTVs are fully stocked with new game titles. The cost to play is $5 per 30 minutes, and is a fun way to wind down from an exciting event.

Business Center coming soon, and will provide access to computers, printers, charging stations, etc, for those busy parents and coaches who want to communicate about their team’s competition through email, websites, social media, and keep up with their careers while on the road.

The Disney Parks Mom’s Panel is a great way to get pre-arrival planning advice from two ESPN Wide World of Sports Specialists. These Mom’s Panel members provide team moms and coaches with tips, advice and direction to make their youth sports travel easier.

I got to speak with Angie Gregg from Hummelstown, PA, whose daughters love Disney and have competed in several soccer tournaments, and even won the Disney’s President Day Festival in February 2012, at the ESPN Wide World of Sports!

Angie’s family loves how they can add extra days on to their team stay to make these tournaments into vacation opportunities for the whole family. She also encourages Team Moms to play a year ahead for their fundraising events to ensure that as many team members as possible can make the journey for this amazing sports opportunity.

The ESPN Wide World of Sports team understands how important Fundraising is to teams, and offers a wide variety of Fundraising Assistance Programs.

The Dream Team Donation Program – Teams are given the opportunity to raffle off a Disney vacation as well as keep 75% of proceeds from raffle ticket sales. Teams also have the opportunity to sell ESPN The Magazine subscriptions and keep 75% of all profits. And a rebate program with Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Alamo Rent A Car which allows a team to earn fundraising dollars by gaining 5% of every rental car purchase through the team’s fundraiser site

Equipment Drop-off is a really great service that ESPN Wide World of Sports offers! Coaches can drop off their team’s equipment at the front of ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and it will be delivered to the team’s field of play.

Little Champions program offers fun games and activities available on-site for younger siblings, freeing parents and coaches up so they can stay focus on the competition.

With so many great Disney Sports Solutions, beautiful grounds, and helpful Cast Members at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex it is easy to see why it is a premier sporting destination that you will definitely want to check out!

Wordless Wednesday – Just Before The Drop

Wordless Wednesday – May 29, 2013

The Eat To The Beat 2013 Concert Series Line Up

This year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will return to Epcot this September 27 – November 11, and while the food is spectacular I always look forward to the Eat to the Beat Concert Series which features some great new additions!

While I am SUPER stoked to see that Big Bad Voodoo Dady, Sugar Ray, and Boyz II Men are still part of the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, I am excited for updated series to take to the festival stage this year!

This year the concert series new comers include the Go-Go’s, Edwin McCain, The Manhattan Transfer, Wilson Phillips, Spin Doctors, and Christopher Cross.

Here is the entire Eat to the Beat Concert Series Schedule!

Sept. 27-29 – Starship starring Mickey Thomas
Sept. 30-Oct. 1 – Go-Go’s
Oct. 2-4 – Air Supply
Oct. 5-6 – Sister Hazel
Oct. 7-9 – Sugar Ray
Oct. 10-11 – Edwin McCain
Oct. 12-13 – Manhattan Transfer
Oct. 14-15 – Wilson Phillips
Oct. 16-17 – The Pointer Sisters
Oct. 18-20 – Night Ranger
Oct. 21-23 – Boyz II Men
Oct. 24-25 – Survivor
Oct. 26-27 – 38 Special
Oct. 28-30 – Smash Mouth
Oct. 31-Nov. 1 – Spin Doctors
Nov. 2-3 – Christopher Cross
Nov. 4-5 – Hanson
Nov. 6-8 – Dennis DeYoung
Nov. 9-11 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

I seriously cannot wait!!!

I hope that we see you at one of these concerts!!!

Wordless Wednesday – Living With The Land

Wordless Wednesday – May 22, 2013

Marketplace Fun Finds A Downtown Disney Hidden Gem

I am ALWAYS on the look out for bargains at Walt Disney World, and Marketplace Fun Finds at the Walt Disney World Downtown Disney Marketplace is a great place to find inexpensive souvenirs and special deals in one store!

Marketplace Fun Finds is located between Disney’s Pin Traders & Little MissMatched and isn’t a new store, but it is one that often get overlooked when people talk or visit the Downtown Disney Marketplace!

Whenever I need a little something, this is always the first place that I check since nothing in the store is over $25.00 which mean less temptation!

There are two really unique things at Marketplace Fun Finds that you won’t find anywhere else.

The first is a grab bag for $11.99 that could have absolutely ANYTHING that you find in the store in a cute little red bag. I am always tempted to pick one of these bad boys up, but I haven’t yet! I need to stop being a chicken!

And then there is my go-to shopping spot for stocking stuffers…the 5 for $20 wall of goodies! On this wall you will find anything! In the past I have found Vinylmations (perfect for trading), purses, Christmas Ornaments, Flip Flops, Hats, and phone cases! On this trip I even found some items from Disney California Adventure’s Carsland.

It is important to know that no discounts apply to the 5 for $20 wall of fun!

What I love is that on this trip I bought over $114 worth of merchandise for $20!

Have you ever been in Marketplace Fun Finds? What did you think?

2013 Star Wars Weekends Overview

It’s that time of year again, where fans from all over the galaxy flock to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a chance to celebrate the franchise that they love so much with fellow fans at Star Wars Weekends, held every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday May 17 – June 9, 2013.

During Star Wars Weekends, Hollywood Studios is full of really unique and special ways to meet some of the stars of the series, have your picture taken with some of your favorite characters, learn more behind-the-scenes details, and have a lot of fun.

Here are some things to keep in Mind if you are going to attend Star Wars Weekends!

Star Wars Weekends – Autographs

Every week you can bring in a memento or picture to be signed by an actual Star Wars!

For those wanting to get an autograph, a FASTPASS Ticket Required!

A FASTPASS ticket ensures your place in line at the celebrity autograph kiosk outside the Front Gate entrance. Grab a FASTPASS ticket before the park opens, as quantities are extremely limited and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Once FASTPASS tickets have been distributed, stand-by tickets may be issued, although stand-by tickets do not guarantee an autograph.

Please note that each Guest must be present to receive a FASTPASS ticket. Guests may not get a FASTPASS ticket for other members of their party, nor may Guests save a place in any FASTPASS line for other party members.

Here is a list of who will be appearing each weekend:

Weekend 1: May 17 to May 19, 2013

Ray Park (Darth Maul – Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace)
Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett – Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Dee Bradley Baker (voice of Captain Rex – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Weekend 2: May 24 to May 26, 2013

Ray Park (Darth Maul – Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace)
Warwick Davis (Wicket the Ewok – Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Jim Cummings (voice of Hondo Ohnaka – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Weekend 3: May 31 to June 2, 2013

Warwick Davis (Wicket the Ewok – Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Tim Rose (Admiral Ackbar – Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Sam Witwer (voice of Darth Maul – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Weekend 4: June 7 to June 9, 2013

Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian – Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca – Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi)
Tom Kane (voice of Yoda – Star Wars: The Clone Wars)

Star Wars Weekends – Meeting Characters

You care sure to find your favorite characters from the Star Wars films and Star Wars: The Clone Wars throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

These character interactions are always tons of fun! But, the lines are often VERY long and specific characters aren’t always out and about.

Also, keep in mind that these character meet and greets can be canceled at any time…so happy character hunting!

Wordless Wednesday Star Wars Weekends — Wordless Wednesday takes to a Galaxy far, far away…or Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Star Wars Weekends which start this Friday!

Star Wars characters you may encounter include:

Mickey Avenue

Darth Vader
Darth Maul
Boba Fett
Jango Fett
Zam Wesell
Aurra Sing
Stormtroopers
Tusken Raiders
Gamorrean Guard

Streets of America

Anakin Skywalker
Commander Cody
Captain Rex
Ahsoka Tano
Asajj Ventress
Shaak Ti
Kit Fisto
Jawas
Clone Troopers

Star Tours Area

Queen Amidala
Chewbacca
Ewoks
Cantina Band

Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster Area

Leia
Luke
C-3PO
R2-D2

Hollywood Boulevard

Jedi Mickey
Leia Minnie
Stormtrooper Donald
Vader Goofy

Star Wars Weekends – Shows You Won’t Want To Miss

There are SO many ways to catch your favorite characters and actors during Star Wars Weekends! Laugh along with humorous interviews, parades and motorcades, and immerse yourself in interactive experiences!

Stormtroopers at the Gate – Hollywood and Vine Intersection
Boba Fett Patrol
Stormtrooper Patrol
Legends of the Force: Star Wars Celebrity Motorcade

Marvel at a grand motorcade featuring a galaxy of your favorite Star Wars characters and 5 Star Wars Celebrities. The motorcade begins at the front of the park and travels to the Star Wars Weekends Event Stage, concluding with a grand celebrity welcome.

Star Wars Celebrity Welcome

Immediately following the Celebrity Motorcade, Star Wars Weekends host James Arnold Taylor, the voice of Obi-Wan Kenobi in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, along with 4 visiting celebrities highlight the day’s events and give you an exclusive Star Wars Weekends photo opportunity.

Padawan Mind Challenge

Join a pair of wacky intergalactic hosts, and a few other Star Wars surprises, as they provide 2 fun and interactive Star Wars trivia challenges, featuring younglings ages 4 to 11. Watch as they wield their mental force alongside a popular Star Wars character.

Behind the Force: Star Wars Voices

Listen closely as host Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano from Star Wars: The Clone Wars, along with 2 very special Clone Wars co-stars reveal the fascinating art of voice acting utilized throughout the Star Wars saga and beyond.

Stars of the Saga

Kick back with Star Wars Weekends host James Arnold Taylor as he puts on this entertaining and often surprising 30-minute, Star Wars-themed talk show. Experience the fascinating life and movie-making adventures of 2 Star Wars celebrities.

Stormtrooper Pre-Show

15 minutes prior to the Stars of the Saga Star Wars Celebrity Talk Show, a unique and immersive pre-show descends upon the Premiere Theater featuring 4 Imperial Stormtroopers on a special assignment. This interactive and always surprising presentation takes place in the audience and builds to an explosive conclusion.

Obi-Wan and Beyond starring James Arnold Taylor

Feel the force flowing as Star Wars Weekends host James Arnold Taylor takes his audience on a fun and fascinating journey into the world of voice acting. In this Star Wars Weekends exclusive, James performs over 200 popular and iconic characters.

Visit to the Maul starring Ray Park

Learn film and martial arts techniques from the actor who brought Darth Maul to life—the man, the Sith, the legend, Ray Park. In this unique presentation, the martial arts master performs impressive demonstrations as he reveals his journey to action-star fame. Show takes place during weekends 1 and 2 only.

An Ewok’s Tale – My Short Story starring Warwick Davis

Step into the fascinating world of entertainment giant, Warwick Davis. In this hilarious presentation, Warwick doesn’t just tell us about his time in the galaxy far, far away or his smorgasbord of roles leading up to the present—he reenacts his entire life! Show takes place during weekends 2 and 3 only.

Hyperspace Hoopla (My absolute favorite)

Star Wars Weekends shifts into hyperdrive hilarity as characters celebrate the day’s final entertainment: Snig & Oopla’s Hyperspace Hoopla! This over-the-top, end of the day celebration features the most beloved Star Wars characters performing in a number of fun and exciting musical numbers.

Remember that Disney’s Hollywood Studios admission is required for Star Wars Weekends. Availability is limited for some events, which may be cancelled at any time. Check the weekend event map for up-to-the-minute information about entertainment and appearances.

Over the duration of Star Wars Weekends, We’ll be posting about the Star Wars Weeekends merchandise, events, and more, so be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest!

Raglan Road: Tables In Wonderland Dining Experience

Raglan Road Irish Pub Presents: The Tablees in Wonderland

Summer Solstice Signature Dining Experience

with Master Chef Kevin Dundon

Date: Thursday June 20^th 2013
Time: 6.30pm
Dress Code: Smart Casual
Price: $95.00, plus tax and gratuity

Tables in Wonderland Discount Accepted

To book your Reservation please call 407-938-0300

Master Chef Kevin Dundon of Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant has created a tantalizing menu incorporating fresh seasonal flavors for a special Summer Solstice Signature Dinner which takes place on the 20th of June. Enjoy a sumptuous five course menu paired with the finest wines that have been expertly chosen to complement and enhance the delicious flavors of each dish. Chef Kevin adds his unique style and flair to the menu combining his passion for freshness and simplicity.

The Summer Solstice marks the official start of the summer in the Northern Hemisphere and has long been associated with ancient summer customs and traditions. It is often the time of the first harvest and when plants and herbs planted during the spring equinox were collected hence a celebration of nature’s bounty. In ancient times the Summer Solstice was hugely significant; it was a time when the power of the Sun was at its highest and crops & fields were blessed to ensure a good harvest.

Celebrations take place across many parts of Europe dating back thousands of years. Most involve festivals, maypole dances, lighting of bonfires, feasting and celebrations. The Summer Solstice is such a joyous and magical occasion celebrated for centuries. We hope you can join us for a truly memorable dining experience. For more information, please visit http://www.raglanroad.com/summer-solstice-signature-dinner.

Menu Offerings:

Appetizer

Platter of Chicken Filet Terrine & Duck Liver Pate with Summer Chutney, Assorted Crostini and Pickled Vegetables
Rosenblum Rockpile Vineyard Zinfandel 2009

Soup

Duet of Potato Soup with a Champagne Splashed Oyster
Steffina di Notte & Guinness Black Velvet

Fish Course

Crispy Dungarvan Pale Ale Battered Atlantic Monkfish with Sea Salted Golden Chips
Dungarvan Pale Ale

Main Course

Sage Butter Roasted Poussin with Lemon Scented Potato Puree, Braised Cabbage and Natural Jus
Chorey-Les-Beaune, Domaine Tollot-Beaut, 2010

Dessert

Strawberry Fields Forever
Chandon Rose

18th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Details Released!

Sip, Savor, Repeat! Fresh Global Tastes Tempt the Palate

at 18th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 27-Nov. 11

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2013 — Guests can sample wine, cheese and ethnic tastes from regions around the world Sept. 27 – Nov. 11, 2013 during the 18th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Scotland Marketplace Debuts, Brazil Flavors Return for Encore

Disney guests can sip and savor fresh flavors from six continents during the 18^th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 27-Nov. 11, 2013 at Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney chefs will debut the authentic tastes of Scotland at the celebrated 46-day festival known for innovative food, wine, beer, cocktails, music and entertainment. The sizzling aromas of more than 25 ethnic and specialized marketplaces including Africa, Brazil and Florida Local will tempt guests strolling the World Showcase Promenade. Celebrity chefs like Warren Brown and Jamie Deen will bring culinary cachet to special festival events and demonstrations.

Festival planners will present a delectable menu of premium programming, plus daily wine tastings and mixology seminars. Nightly Eat to the Beat concerts will keep the party rockin’, and five bands will make their festival debut this year. In Future World, the iconic Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog will return for a third year to introduce families to the cranberry’s rich agricultural heritage.

Fresh for the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in 2013:

New marketplace debuts; favorites return -Traditional flavors with a twist will pair with beers, meads and Scotch at the new Scotland Marketplace designed by Walt Disney Imagineering. Scottish officials were so impressed with the hit Disney film, “Brave,” that they contacted festival planners about participating in this year’s festival. The Brazil Marketplace returns by popular demand with an exciting new menu following a one-year hiatus. Hawai’i is back with its flavorful Kalua Pork Slider, and Terra, which debuted last year, returns with vegan favorite Trick’n Chicken Curry.

Fan favorites rock the house at Eat to the Beat! Concerts – “We Got the Beat” with the Go-Go’s (Sept. 30-Oct. 1) and four other musical acts are set to make first appearances at Eat to the Beat nightly concerts. Also new to the festival stage: Edwin McCain (Oct. 10-11), The Manhattan Transfer (Oct. 12-13), Spin Doctors (Oct. 31-Nov. 1), and Christopher Cross (Nov. 2-3) Nineteen bands are slated, with STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas kicking off the concert series Sept. 27-29. Returning fan favorites include The Pointer Sisters, Smash Mouth, Boyz II Men, Sister Hazel, Air Supply, Hanson and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

Celebrity chefs cook and dish – Renowned chefs like Warren Brown, Paula DaSilva, Gale Gand, Jamie Deen, Robert Irvine, Dean Max, Rock Harper, Jeff Henderson, Art Smith, Buddy Valastro, Allen Susser, “Cake Boy” Eric Lanlard, Duskie Estes and John Stewart, Donald Link, Bryan Voltaggio and Emily Ellyn share their talents during culinary demos and premium events.

Festival Welcome Center buzzes with activities – Guests can make the most of complimentary Authentic Taste seminars. Culinary demonstrations and wine seminars feature new tastes and sips for a nominal fee.

Reserved culinary events draw foodies — Special culinary programs showcase a lineup of renowned winemakers, guest chefs and speakers like Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson as they participate in elegant dinners, luncheons, seminars and wine schools.

Other festival highlights include:

More than 270 chefs including Disney chefs and culinary stars from across the country
A complimentary Marketplace Discovery Passport to be stamped at each international marketplace visited for the perfect scrapbook souvenir.
Party for the Senses grand tasting events Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26, and Nov. 2 featuring tempting bites from eminent chefs, more than 50 wines and beers and live entertainment.
Premium events including “3D” Disney’s Dessert Discovery on select Fridays, Cheese Seminars on Saturdays and Sweet Sundays on Sundays.

What’s Included with Epcot Admission:

Authentic Taste seminars, Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog, special book signings, Eat to the Beat! concerts, cultural adventures, Marketplace Discovery Passport and all attractions and park entertainment are included with regular Epcot admission.

Special Programming by Reservation:

The Party for the Senses grand tasting events and other special wine and culinary programs require reservations and separate event admission. Guests will be able to call 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378) to make reservations after an August date is announced. Information and reservations for select events and programs will be at www.epcotfoodfestival.com.

Wordless Wednesday: Star Wars Weekends Coming Soon

Wordless Wednesday – May 15, 2013

Merida Coronation At The Magic Kingdom

This morning the Magic Kingdom played host to the Merida, from Disney/Pixar Brave, Coronation making her Disney’s 11th Princess .This was an especially exciting event, because this was the first time Disney held a Coronation of a new Princess publicly.

Cinderella Castle was all decked out in special banners for the Coronation, and it was even more beautiful than usual!

For this exciting event, 2 time Olympic Gold Medal Winner Gabby Douglas and her mother, Natalie, served as emcee, and spoke about their special relationship.

“I admire Merida for being determined and courageous as these are qualities that have had a big impact on my own life and helped me achieve my goals as an athlete,” said Gabby Douglas, gymnastics gold medalist. “And like Merida, I have a strong relationship with my mom, whose support and belief in me has helped me recognize my own inner princess qualities. It’s really special for us to be here and share in Merida’s celebration, especially on Mother’s Day weekend.”

Then it was time for the Merida Coronation!

Merida was led to the forecourt of Cinderella Castle on the back of her trusty friend Angus, and followed by banners, a troop of Scottish dancers, and an authentic pipe and drum band. It was amazing!

After the processional, Merida was joined on the castle stage by the members of the Royal Disney Princess Court which includes Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Jasmine, Belle, Mulan, Pocahontas, Tiana, and Rapunzel for the reading of the Royal Proclamation. It is always a treat to see them all in one place!

To me, the most special part of Merida’s Coronation was that Queen Elinor had the honor of placing the tiara on Merida’s head making her Disney’s 11th Princess! The celebration of Mother and Daughter was such a touching way to start Mother’s Day Weekend at Walt Disney World! This was the first time that Queen Elinor has appeared at Walt Disney World! I am not going to even try to say that I didn’t cry.

“As a Disney Princess, Merida sets an admirable example for all, being brave, strong, passionate, determined and confident,” said Katherine Sarafian, “Brave’s” producer. “When Queen Elinor placed the crown on Merida’s head, it signified a moment of deep connection, as a mother recognized the spirit, heart and true personality of her daughter. It’s moments like these that encapsulate what is special about being a princess, but also resonate with mothers across the world.”

What an amazing & fun way to spend the morning!!!

I hope that you enjoy our pictures of the Merida Coronation!

UPDATE!

** We’ve posted several additional pictures on our Facebook Page! Take a peek! **

TrenD Report: All The Little Details

This week’s TrenD Report I was glad to find some new pieces, but I thought it would be a lot of fun to take a look at the little details of TrenD.

I really liked the new Aztec print dress, the watercolor Tink tank, and the long sleeve Minnie Mouse tissue shirt!

The iPhone 5 Bling Cases are a lot of fun! While I wasn’t a fan of the more stylized Princesses, they seem to work on these cases. And the ‘One Shoe Can Change Your Life’ case might be one of my new favorites and the next case that I buy!!!

I also chose a few of my favorite pieces of jewelry to share with you all, too!

Walking around TrenD, I also found the new Alice in Wonderland Tea Pot, cups, plates, and wine glasses. The new pattern is really playful and fun!

And while I am patiently waiting for the Summer LeSportsac Purses to arrive at TrenD, I found the HARVEYS Disney Patchwork purses to hold me over! They are ADORABLE in person! I was really worried that the mish mash of prints would really be too much, but I was really glad I was wrong!

I hope that you enjoy joining me on this TrenD Report!

TrenD Report: May 7, 2013

LeSportsac It’s A Small World Announces It’s Summer 2013 Print

Arriving this may, the newest It’s a Small World LeSportsac print called Around the World will debut!

This summer’s newest print was inspired by Mary, who can be found in the Disneyland and Walt Disney World hidden in one of the many beautiful scenes of It’s a Small World.

This print on a beige background really captures the true spirit of the attraction which Mary envisioned for Disney, and all of these LeSportsac bags come with a Mary Charm.

The Around the World print features many countries you will recognize from It’s a Small World! You will find children from India, Egypt, Holland, Great Britain, Morocco, and Japan featured on the bags!

The LeSportsac Around the World print will be available in 16 styles: Rectangular Cosmetic, Travel Cosmetic, Lily Wallet, Kasey, Small Cleo Crossbody, Classic Hobo, Deluxe Shoulder Satchel, Deluxe Everyday Bag, Small EveryGirl Tote, EveryGirl Tote, Carryall Tote, Medium Weekender, Large Weekender, Mini Basic Backpack, Basic Backpack, and Voyager Backpack.

In June, two more styles of LeSportsac embroidered bags will be available!

The World of Laughter Basic Backpack and Share Your Hope Classic Hobo, the carefully placed embroidery of each little lady adorn both of these solid black bags with a simple message, provoking one simple gesture from the one who wears it.

Mary’s Tote and the Floating Dreams Rectangular Cosmetic similarly feature Mary’s character with a fistful of balloons, a characterization of Mary’s eternal message of hope and unity.

The LeSportsac Around the World Summer Collection will also have a very special piece that will be available in June! I have to say that I am OBSESSED with this piece, and I am going to HAVE to have it!!!

The Hopes and Dreams Globe Pouch and Charm Set is embroidered on a soft beige pouch with gold and silver embroidery and piping, and is inspired by the It’s a Small World clock tower face.

On the chain of this pouch, has a charm set that has some of the ride’s iconic pieces and characters. It’s beyond adorable

This piece is the perfect anchor to this summer’s It’s a Small World message!

Wordless Wednesday: The Look Of Love

Wordless Wednesday May 1, 2013

Disney Twenty-Three Summer 2013 Issue

Disney Twenty-Three Summer Issue is now available

exclusively to D23 Memebers

Insider Glimpses of Monsters University, Iron Man 3, The Lone Ranger and Disney’s Planes

Plus an Extensive Feature Saluting 60 Years of Walt Disney Imagineering

The summer issue of Disney twenty-three, the flagship magazine of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, features a mega summer movie preview of Disney’s upcoming theatrical releases. D23 gets readers back in the saddle with filmmakers Jerry Bruckheimer and Gore Verbinski for Johnny Depp’s upcomingThe Lone Ranger; Billy Crystal talks about scaring up big laughs for Monsters University; the masterminds behind Marvel’s newest film, Iron Man 3, offer an inside look at how they’re bringing Iron Man back to basics; and John Lasseter shows us how the upcoming animated film Disney’s Planes will soar.

Disney twenty-three also celebrates 60 years of Walt Disney Imagineering with a special commemorative back cover. Imagineer Tony Baxter discusses his work on some of the world’s most iconic attractions, including Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, SplashMountain, and Star Tours. “You Do What?” profiles some of the most unusual jobs Imagineers have had over the years, from rock designer to castle architect. “Imagineering Fact? Or Fiction!” debunks some of the long-time myths and legends of the Disney Parks. And there’s much more, including “23 Imagineering Game Changers” and a salute from Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Tom Staggs to the thousands of creative individuals whose contributions have changed the way guests experience Disney around the world.

Beginning with the summer issue, Disney twenty-three, hailed by critics for its superlative fan content and collectability, will be offered exclusively to D23 Gold Members who will continue to receive the magazine as a benefit of their membership. Disney twenty-three is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, and this issue contains a special member gift—a metallic D23 keychain, signifying how members hold the key to unlocking the magic of Disney through D23.

Disney twenty-three’s favorite sections are back with new images and content, too. In this issue:

An image of Walt and Lillian celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary just prior to the opening ofDisneyland in “PHOTOfiles”
“A Walk with Walt” takes readers back to 1946, the year following the end of World War II—a transitional one for Walt and his company
In “D Society,” Ne-Yo, Rod Stewart, and Tina Fey are among the stars shown visiting the parks

The Disney discoveries don’t stop with the end of the summer publication. In conjunction with the summer issue of Disney twenty-three, www.D23.com will feature original and exclusive stories that complement the contents of D23’s glossy magazine. Beginning May 14, only on D23.com you’ll find an exclusive video interview with Imagineer Tony Baxter.

About D23

D23: The Official Disney Fan Club celebrates the remarkable past, present, and future of Disney, taking its name from 1923, the year Walt Disney founded his world-famous company. D23 brings its members a host of exclusive benefits, including a weekly e-mail newsletter; an array of discounts and special offers; and exclusive, member-only special events.

Disney fans can join the world’s only Official Disney Fan Club by visiting www.D23.com or www.DisneyStore.com/D23. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow “DisneyD23” on Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, and Facebook.

RunDisney Princess Half Marathon Weekend Adds New Race, Challenge, And Medals!

RunDisney Princess Half Marathon New Additions For 2014

Women-focused event to offer 10K, new challenge and special-edition medals fit for a Princess;

Special Princess and Tinker Bell half marathon registration available June 11

Building on the success of its women-focused events, runDisney is broadening the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend at Walt Disney World Resort next year by adding a 10K and a new two-race challenge.

The Princess 10K gives runners of various levels more opportunities to run through Disney theme parks and receive a specially-designed finisher medal. And runners looking for an even bigger challenge can sign up for the 10K on Saturday and the Half Marathon on Sunday (19.3 miles total) to earn the inaugural Disney Glass Slipper Challenge Medal to go along with medals from each individual race.

The Princess Half Marathon Weekend, scheduled for Feb. 20-23, is one of two women-focused runDisney events. The other is the Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend in January at Disneyland Resort in California. Both races are among the largest women-specific running events in the country and focus on healthy active lifestyles for women and girls. For instance, after nearly 7,500 runners ran in the inaugural Princess Half Marathon event in 2009, the popularity of the race has grown considerably with more than 26,000 registered runners for last year’s race.

Also new in 2014 is a special edition runDisney Coast-to-Coast Race Challenge Medal for runners participating in the 2014 Tinker Bell Half Marathon at Disneyland in January and the 2014 Princess Half Marathon five weeks later at Walt Disney World. Finishers receive the coveted medal featuring the likeness of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse with a pink overlay and lanyard.

Registration for the 2014 Princess Half Marathon opens June 11 at www.runDisney.com. A limited number of runners will have the opportunity to register for both the Princess and Tinker Bell Half Marathon at that time. Those not securing an early registration for the Tinker Bell Half Marathon will have a second chance when on-line registration officially opens on July 9.

Both the Princess and Tinker Bell Half Marathon weekends include signature runDisney events including a health and fitness expo geared towards women, kids races, a family fun run 5K, as well as featured half marathons for both weekend.

For more information and to register for runDisney events, visit www.runDisney.com.