Save Room In Your Budget For These Top 5 Disney Souvenirs

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September 12, 2015

There are SO MANY great things about going to Walt Disney World for vacation – the rides, the FOOD, the characters, the magic…I love it ALL! And another thing I always make sure that I do while I am there is some shopping – I love checking out the latest items at all the stores, and I always make sure to save room in my trip budget for some souvenirs. There is a TON of stuff to choose from, so if you aren’t sure what to buy, then maybe you should check out my list of Top 5 Disney Souvenirs:

Drinkware: There’s nothing better than pouring my morning cup of coffee into a gorgeous Disney World mug – it brightens my day! There are a ton of great drinkware options to choose from at the Parks too – travel mugs, wine glasses, drinking glasses, and shot glasses too (those are a personal favorite of mine as they are thick and don’t take up much suitcase space!). They come in a ton of different designs, too – so you’re sure to find something you like

Disney Themed Games: My family and I love playing board games – and Disney has recently started making some “Disney themed” board games – Candyland, “Haunted Mansion” Life, Muppets Yahtzee, and various decks of cards (Disney Parks themed, Haunted Mansion themed, etc) are just some of the things you will find at the Parks to bring home for your family game night

Snacks: There are tons of pre-packaged snacks for sale at the Parks that make great “take home” treats, like bags of Mickey-shaped pretzels or Mickey shaped cheddar crackers (like Goldfish only Mickey-er!), or any of the bagged candy from Goofy’s Candy Company work well too. These are a great thing to pull out a rainy day when the kids (or you!) are really missing that Disney magic

Christmas Ornaments: My family purchases a new Christmas ornament every time we visit Walt Disney World – and when we go to unpack the ornaments and decorate the tree, we get to reminisce about all of our fun vacations over the years. You can buy them at the Disney’s Days Of Christmas Store in Downtown Disney – they are open all year, spreading Christmas cheer! A tip for these – you might want to avoid the large glass ball style ornament – we generally stick with smaller metal ones and that has worked out well for us, they have all returned home in one piece!

Photos: Ok, so I realize this isn’t exactly something you can buy at the Parks, but it’s my favorite souvenir of all! I take TONS of pictures during my WDW trips, and then I also make sure I utilize Disney’s Photopass Service, so that I can have a ton of great shots to pick from once the trip is done. One thing I do plan for in my trip budget is to purchase a frame or album while I am at the Parks – and then when I get home I can select some awesome photos and proudly display the memories we have made at Disney

Souvenir shopping is one of my favorite things to do while at Disney – browsing the offerings, and seeing which items I might like to take home is a tradition that I always uphold. What about you – do you like to souvenir shop? What are your “must have” Disney souvenirs?

Hollywood Studios Very Own Mulch, Sweat, and Shears is Going Bye Bye

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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September 11, 2015

Sadly. Mulch, Sweat, and Shears will entertain us no more. Their last show is October 10th, 2015 at Hollywood Studios. That is also around their 11 year anniversary. If you have ever had the pleasure of seeing them, than you know how awesome they are. I must admit I am a sucker for a sense of humor as well and they have it!

In case you have not heard about them, here is a little background: Their shtick is they are landscapers. They are a cover band, that plays classic rock. They play at Hollywood Studios on The Streets of America. Their shows are high energy and if you are standing in the front they just might invite you to perform with them.

If you will be there before their last show you should check them out at least once. You will not be sorry. So sad to see them go.

If you can’t make it to see them than check this out:

Are you a fan?

Photo Credit: Mulch, Sweat, and Shears Facebook page

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Disney USB Sticker Wrap for iPhone

By

Chip

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September 11, 2015

Decorate your iphone charger with Disney characters these heat Resistant Vinyl sticker wraps fit perfectly on your USB chargers. Suitable for iPhone4, 5 and 6 chargers. Here are the designs I found online:

And many more! Cost is only around $9.99.

Click any of the links above to learn more and to order yours today!

Happy Shopping!

Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights: Celebrate a De-Light-ful Holiday Tradition One More Time

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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September 11, 2015

The holidays will be here before we know it and many of you are in the process of making your plans (some of which include a trip to Walt Disney World). Two more options for holiday fun at the Walt Disney World Resort will soon be open for booking – the Merry & Bright Dessert Party (November 6-December 30) and the Merry & Bright Dinner Reception (Jan 1-3). Both of these special events overlook The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Hollywood Studios.

With the dessert party guests will be able to enjoy holiday-themed treats while surrounded by the incredible light display. The dinner reception, which is new this holiday season, will feature a selection of small bites including beef, shrimp and turkey plus wine, beer and specialty beverages. You’ll be able to book these experiences beginning September 16th – so make sure to check back around then for even more details!

As you’re doing your holiday planning, this year, please remember that the 2015 season will mark the finale for The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. The display of lights has enjoyed a successful run at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, going all the way back to when it first appeared on Residential Street.

The decision to not present the Osborne Family Lights in the future comes as Disney prepares to add some incredible experiences and attractions to Hollywood Studios – including Toy Story Land and a Star Wars themed land. Here’s to making the 20th and final year of this Disney World tradition the best yet – and one you don’t want to miss!

Sign the Keep the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney Petition here.

Is the Osborne Family Dancing Lights Spectacle a family tradition for you? Maybe you want to see it just once before it’s retired forever? Or maybe you want to experience one of the dining experiences around the event? Let’s get your holiday trip to Walt Disney World planned! I am a Travel Magician with World of Magic Travel, the preferred agency of Chip and Co and the Disney Addicts! Email me today at [email protected] to start planning your “Magical” vacation! –Alissa

Disney Finds – Fun Disney Magnets for your door

By

Chip

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September 11, 2015

Going on a Disney Cruise?! Dress up your stateroom door with these fun Disney Magnets. Available from designer GulfBreezeProduction they have a bunch of cool designs perfect for the Disney Lover in your life. Here are some of the fun designs they have available:

Mickey Mouse (as pictured above)
Pink Polka Dot with Glitter Dress Minnie Mouse
Mickey and Minnie Mouse Kissing Couple
Olaf
The Little Mermaid
Tinkerbell
Belle

Then they have a bunch of themed designs:

and many more. Cost for these designs run between $15 and $20 and they are very durable. To see some of the other fun designs click here.

Happy Shopping!

P.S. – If you are looking for Fish Extenders check out this post!

Top 10 Reasons to Visit the Disneyland Resort During the Holidays

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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September 11, 2015

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort is returning November 13-January 6, 2016. I love Christmas and I love Disneyland so this is my favorite time of year to visit the resort! The weather is perfect, there are low crowds, and the decorations are beautiful! Here’s my top 10 reasons why you should experience the Disneyland Resort during the holidays:

Lower Crowds. Not all days during the holidays will have lower crowds (like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years). But for the most part the parks aren’t very crowded during this time. Less people means shorter lines and more time to experience everything!
Festive Décor. To say that the Disneyland Resort goes big with decorations is an understatement! Just check out the giant Christmas tree on Main St. U.S.A. which boasts over 1800 ornaments. Nearly 10,000 lights, 2,000 feet of garland, and more than 7,400 feet of ribbon add to the holiday cheer. Cars Land is also completely decked out!
Perfect Weather. Living in Alaska for over 8 years now has made it hard for me to handle hot weather. The holiday season in California is perfect weather in my opinion! High temperatures average in the low to mid 70’s and low temperatures average in the high 40’s/low 50’s. Comfortable weather during the day and jacket weather at night.
Ride Themes Change. During the holidays some of our favorite rides get holiday theme makeovers. The classic Jungle Cruise becomes the Jingle Cruise. The animals get a holiday makeover and the skippers will “sleigh” you with their new jokes. The Haunted Mansion is taken over by Jack Skellington and the other characters from The Nightmare Before Christmas. “it’s a small world” also gets a winter wonderland makeover and incorporates holiday tunes.
Special Holiday Treats. Calories don’t count at Disneyland so try as many of the special treats as you want! A couple of classic treats are the handmade candy canes and yule log. Some other sweets include peppermint bark, marshmallow wands, and English toffee. The list could really go on and on! Hopefully we’ll get some more information soon on any new treats coming this holiday season.
Holiday Gifts. Disney is always a great place to purchase gifts for family and loved ones but the holiday season is an especially wonderful time to get a holiday keepsake. Thousands of ornaments, holiday themed mouse ears and many other souvenirs can only be purchased this time of year. (Though there is a smaller selection of ornaments available year-round)
Decked Out Hotels. If you can’t stay at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels, at least take the time to have a look around. The Grand Californian Resort & Spa gets decked out with a beautiful Christmas tree and a 500+ lb gingerbread house in the lobby.
A Christmas Fantasy Parade. You can see some of your favorite Disney characters as well as elves, toy soldiers, and reindeer in this magical holiday parade. The parade ends with everyone’s favorite jolly gift-giver, Santa Claus.
“Holiday Time At Disneyland” Tour. Take a tour back in time to learn how some of the Disneyland holiday traditions started and hear some enchanting tales from around the world. You’ll also get to experience some seasonally themed attractions, watch a parade, and enjoy delicious treats. Included in your tour is a collectable pin and a special personalized button.
Disney ¡Viva Navidad! This is a festive celebration of Latino culture and takes place at Disney California Adventure park. Paradise Pier is decorated in papel picado and the Paradise Garden Grill serves authentic dishes such as pozole, mole and tacos. The “Disney ¡Viva Navidad!’ Street Party includes 12-foot tall mojiganga puppets of Santa and Sra. Claus. Other Street Party entertainment includes mariachi and samba musicians, folklorico dancers and much more.

Disneyland becomes a winter wonderland from the beginning of November until the beginning of January. It’s really a time not to be missed! If you’d like to visit the Disneyland Resort during the holiday season, contact me today to start planning your next magical adventures.

Dining Reservation Services Are Making it Harder Than Ever to Get A Reservation

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Disney News

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September 10, 2015

I am sure you have heard about these services that are popping up that claim they can get you that hard to get Disney Dining reservation. There seems to be more and more of these services popping up everyday. Well, Disney fans are not happy about these services because they are hoarding reservations and making it even harder for us to get a dining reservation.

They charge a small amount, somewhere around $1 to $10. They will watch for the dining reservation that you want but the client has to call and actually get the reservation. The catch is they make false reservations in order to hold your spot. That is where the big problem comes in.

Disney is not affiliated with these services and they are aware of the situation and they are looking into it.

Disney World Security Officer Wins her Civil lawsuit Against Disney

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Disney News

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September 10, 2015

We recently told you about some discrimination lawsuits that were filed against Disney. Well, Camelia Joseph, recently won her case against Disney. A jury recently ruled that Disney did in fact discriminate against Camelia Joseph based on her Haitian origin.

It is said that she became very emotional in court as she testified. She said that she tried to get promotions many times over her 20 year career in security at Disney World. She felt she was denied because of her nationality. Joseph also said that there we employees less qualified than her that were getting promotions and making more money.

Disney issued the following statement:”We have a longstanding policy against workplace discrimination and believe none occurred here. We are pleased the jury awarded no damages.” Disney also denies that there was any discrimination even though there was more than one suit filed against them.

Photo Credit: www.wesh.com

Top 5 Disney Bags to bring with you to the parks

By

Chip

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September 10, 2015

Working on another article here on Chip and Co I was looking at Disney bags online. The design below seems to be very popular when I have posted it in the past. I had no idea it came in a diaper bag design, this would have been nice when my girls were going to Walt Disney World when they were little.

Here are my Top 5 Disney Bags to take with you to the Disney Parks:

My first pick is the Mickey Polka Dot design. It comes in a Tote Messenger Bag or Disney Polka Dot Bottle Bag for $24

Next up is the 5 and 1 Disney Diaper Bags series. They come in Mickey, Minnie, Winnie The Pooh, and more. All of the bags above only run $22!

The Minnie Polka Dot design is similar to the Mickey Design above. You can get the Minnie Polka Dot Bottle Bag and Minnie Dot and Bow Tote for under $25 each.

Next up is the super popular Disney Mickey Mouse Drawstring Backpacks. You can get both for $13.95.

Finally the Disney Hobo bags. They come in Lilo & Stitch , The Little Mermaid Ariel Stained Glass, Alice In Wonderland Tattoo, The Little Mermaid Ariel Tattoo and many more designs. Great news these designs are only $19.50!

So did we miss any? Let us know in the comment box below.

The Halloween Spooktacular at Seaworld Orlando is Fun for the Whole Family

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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September 10, 2015

Halloween meets the sea during weekends in October at SeaWorld Orlando’s Halloween Spooktacular. This family-friendly event will immerse and surround guests in an underwater “fantasea” with trick-or-treating, whimsical pumpkin fish, sea-themed arts and crafts, and up-close animal encounters.

SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular® takes place from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. weekends, October 3-31. Like all special events at SeaWorld, Halloween Spooktacular is included with park admission.

Spooktacular Highlights Include:

· Waves of Trick-or-Treat Fun – Costumed youngsters can trick-or-treat for ghoulish goodies. Each sea-themed, trick-or-treat station features an assortment of candy favorites including Tootsie Roll®, Jelly Beans®, Airheads®, just to name a few.

· Penelope’s Party Zone – This dynamic “underwater” environment comes to life each weekend with a live DJ, a variety of craft opportunities, bubbles floating overhead and colorful sea-themed characters. The zone is located on SeaWorld’s Bayside Pathway.

· Returning Fan Favorite: Sesame Street’s Countdown to Halloween – Celebrate a Spooktacular Halloween at SeaWorld with The Count, Elmo, Abby, and the rest of everyone’s Sesame Street friends! The Count is feeling lonely this Halloween, and it’s up to you and the loveable monsters from Sesame Street to get him into the Halloween spirit. Batty bats and spooky skeletons join the fun in a song filled stage show that invites you and your family to dance, play, and sing along.

· Spooktacular Dance Party – Children join Princess Penelope and her under-the-sea friends for a Spooktacular Dance Party where they can participate in line-dancing favorites as clouds of bubbles fill the evening air. The party will kick off at the Village Square in the front of the park every event night one hour before park closing.

Spectacular Spooky Add-Ons:

· Dine With Shamu® Halloween Spooktacular Brunch – Guests can celebrate with an immersive and memorable brunch experience at Dine With Shamu®. They will enjoy seasonal items and reserved tables that bring them up close to majestic killer whales. There also are some Halloween surprises including a family photo in a decorative frame and a free cookie decorating kit. Prices begin at $28 plus tax for adults and $16 plus tax for kids.

· Sweet Treat Decorating – Kids and parents alike can have a “splash” decorating their own sweet treats at the cookie decorating stations. The kits include a cookie, frosting and toppings and are available for $7.

For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit www.SeaWorldOrlando.com.

I have been to this and we loved it. Have you been?

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria

Hauntingly Cute Jack & Sally Tsum Tsum Decal

By

Danielle

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September 10, 2015

Have you seen the Princesses and Villains decals we did last month? Well DenileArts has given us something adorable, and perfect for the upcoming Halloween season this time! Introducing the new Jack and Sally Tsum Tsum vinyl! Now on sale for only $5!

Being a lover of The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Tsum Tsum, this sticker is a perfect combination! DenileArts is also offering this one in White or Black, so you can choose your preferred color. These not only look great on car windows, but laptops, tablets, folders and more!

To learn more and to order yours check out her store here or click any of the links above. There’s lots of other great to choose from Disney Vinyls to choose from too!

Happy Shopping!

You Can Now Follow Minnie Mouse on Instagram

By

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends

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September 10, 2015

Disney is bringing all things Minnie Mouse-inspired to Instagram with the launch of @MinnieStyle, a new account showcasing her style and ongoing influence on the world of fashion, beauty and pop culture. Minnie’s iconic style including polka dots, bows and instantly recognizable color palette will also be celebrated this month with events at both New York and London fashion weeks.

@MinnieStyle will showcase Minnie-inspired looks from the global fashion community, every day fashion inspiration, couture and ready-to-wear designer collaborations, celebrities, bloggers and more. The first portfolio on @MinnieStyle will feature a series of inspirational fashion images as well as a behind-the-scenes look at events during September’s international fashion weeks.

At New York Fashion Week, Disney is collaborating with Refinery29, the leading digital lifestyle media company for millennial-minded women, and CONFETTISYSTEM, to create a Minnie Mouse-inspired room, as part of 29Rooms, Refinery29’s interactive funhouse celebrating style and culture, which is open to the public in Brooklyn, NY on September 11 and 12. Then from September 18 to 20, during London Fashion Week, Disney and the British Fashion Council will host the Minnie: Style Icon exhibition. The exhibition, which has been curated with the help of model and photographer Georgia May Jagger, will bring together photographs from the 1930’s through present day including archive imagery and sketches, celebrity portraits and fashion spreads. Images from the event will also be shared on the @MinnieStyle Instagram.

Georgia May Jagger said: ‘I’ve always been a Minnie fan so I’m really excited to be working on this campaign, showing how pop culture can influence fashion in a way that encourages excitement and creativity.’

The character of Minnie Mouse was created by Walt Disney and she made her debut alongside Mickey Mouse in Disney’s Steamboat Willie animation in 1928. Patterned after the 1920’s flapper as portrayed by actress Colleen Moore, her trademark polka dot skirt was inspired by Coco Chanel and her “Easy Jersey” collection. From her early pillbox flower hat, which inspired ladies hat trends to her famous bow and ears, Minnie has been looked to for style inspiration since her inception and has celebrity fans all over the world including Victoria Beckham, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kourtney Kardashian and Lady Gaga to name a few.

Follow @MinnieStyle on Instagram and visit the Disney Style blog for more updates on all things fashion and Minnie-style inspired.

I love this!

Wishing you Faith, Trust, and Pixie Dust

Maria