World Celebration Gardens, located in the heart of EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort, provides a dramatic and magnificent backdrop for a private, after-hours wedding ceremony and reception. Surrounded by lush trees and greenery, and of course the iconic Spaceship Earth, this fully immersive outdoor wedding venue is transformed at night by the shimmering lights on the 18-story geosphere.
The enhancement of a unique lighting display on the EPCOT icon, choreographed to music and changing color patterns, creates an epic wedding experience for the happy couple and their guests. This beautiful outdoor venue is now available to book for weddings in January 2025 and beyond.
You can see what World Celebration Gardens looks like during the day in the photos above. The area is transformed into a beautiful wedding venue in a way only Disney can accomplish.
What do you think about the new wedding venue at Epcot?
If you’d like to plan and book your next trip to Walt Disney World, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical and stress-free vacation.
Disney Cruise Line Hosts Career Panel for Florida High School Students
Dozens of local students took a trip outside of the classroom recently to Broward County’s Port Everglades for a career panel with Disney Cruise Line crew members. They learned all about careers in the maritime industry.
While the Disney Dream was docked at the port, Disney Cruise Line partnered with Junior Achievement of South Florida to host an interactive career panel for students participating in JA Career Bound, a program designed to help students build work-readiness skills and gain knowledge of local industries. Students spoke to several Disney Cruise Line crew members and officers who work aboard the ship, in a range of areas, including human resources, guest services, and entertainment. Crew Members shared details with students about their roles, life at sea and tips for pursuing a maritime career.
One of the panelists, Gabe Biser, human resources manager aboard the Disney Dream, is also a former Junior Achievement student. He said he appreciated his mentors in the program who encouraged him to learn about different career paths. “Being part of the cruise industry has been an incredible experience, and I am grateful for the mentors who guided me along my career journey,” said Biser. “It’s an honor to share my experiences with these students, and I hope to inspire them to explore industries they may not be familiar with.”
Following the career panel, students explored Port Everglades, touring unique spaces, and getting a behind-the-scenes look at port and terminal operations. “We appreciated the opportunity to showcase our port’s diverse operations, including cargo, as part of the wealth of maritime careers available to our youth,” said Glenn Wiltshire, Acting Director of Port Everglades.
“I joined the Junior Achievement Career Bound program because I want to learn about how to advance in a professional work environment to pursue my dream jobs,” said Tyler Hilaire, a senior student at McArthur High School and a Junior Achievement Career Bound Ambassador. “I learned today from Disney Cruise Line that there are so many interesting careers in this industry.”
This initiative is part of Disney Cruise Line’s commitment to creating lasting, positive impact in its port communities by investing in youth education initiatives that provide awareness, access, and hands-on learning opportunities. Most recently, Disney Cruise Line announced new community investments with Junior Achievement South Florida in celebration of its arrival into Broward County and the grand opening of its dedicated cruise terminal this past November. Disney’s donation supports the Junior Achievement Career Bound and Pre-Apprenticeship programs, including a special marine service technician track that educates students about the maritime industry, marine basics, and engine fundamentals.
“We’re grateful for Disney Cruise Line’s ongoing support,” said Laurie Sallarulo, president & CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA). “These initiatives play a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce by offering valuable insights and opportunities, and empowering young minds to navigate their career paths successfully.”
DCL and Broward County previously announced a 15-year agreement that includes a minimum 10.6 million passenger movements, and three 5-year extension options that could add another 11.25 million passenger movements. The agreement provides for one ship to homeport in Port Everglades year-round, joined by a second, seasonal ship in 2025.
Ready to book your next Disney cruise? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are FREE!
shopDisney Rebranding as the Disney Store once again
shopDisney is set to undergo a rebranding shift, reverting to its original Disney Store name later this month, as reported on its website.
The change will be officially implemented around February 14, 2024, coinciding with Valentine’s Day, following a brief scheduled downtime for the website. With this transformation, the retailer’s primary URL will switch back to “DisneyStore.com” from shopDisney.com.
This move represents a reversal of the branding alteration made in September 2017 when Disney Store adopted the name shopDisney, accompanied by a modernized store appearance.
The shift back to the original Disney Store branding follows the closure of numerous Disney Store locations in North America in 2021, including the original Glendale, California store. Notably, the reported rebranding aligns with the recent announcement of 150 Cast Members being laid off from The Walt Disney Company, affecting various areas, including online retail support, Disney Parks Merchandise Guest Services, and D23 Guest Services.
Mickey’s loyal companion has been reimagined as part of this pair of ceramic bowls inspired by the traditional Japanese dish. The set includes a yellow bowl featuring Pluto’s smiling face which can nestle on top of the green bowl circled with a bone print, which represents the ramen bowl, although you can use them for anything!
You can take a closer look at this bowl in our Instagram post:
New Mickey Mouse Valentines Day Starbucks Tumbler Spotted At Hollywood Studios!
Fall in love with this Mickey Mouse Valentines Day Starbucks Tumbler available now at Hollywood Studios, as well as, online at shopDisney for $49.99! A perfect tumbler so you and a loved one can share a drink and happy memories of your fun trips to Walt Disney World.
It features a geometric design in a romantic pink color with a red lid. The front features Mickey Mouse in metallic red with the Walt Disney World logo at the bottom, and the back shows the Starbucks logo in metallic pink.
The tumbler also comes with a reusable straw and heart shaped topper. So cute! We are definitely adding this one to your collection, want to see more of this beautiful tumbler? Check out the video in our Instagram post:
Mickey And Friends Love Dooney And Bourke Collection At Magic Kingdom!
Add a romantic touch to your style with this Mickey And Friends Love Dooney And Bourke Collection perfect for Valentine’s Day! We found these products at Magic Kingdom and immediately fell in love with them, take a look:
My personal favorite is definitely the satchel bag, is the perfect size to carry your essentials and looking stylish and chic. It features an all over pattern of Mickey & Minnie, Donald & Daisy, and Chip & Dale with Clarice plus heart doodles all around. So cute!
CROSSBODY BAG
If you prefer a more practical bag, the crossbody style is the way to go! It features the same all over pattern of beloved Disney characters like the rest of the collection.
Celebrate Pixar Cars Month With New Merch And Lightning McQueen Appearance at NASCAR’s Season Opener!
Ka-chow! Pixar Cars Month is here! Celebrate the NASCAR opening season in Los Angeles that will include a special appearance by Lightning McQueen with exciting products inspired by your favorite Radiator Springs friends.
Prep for your racing adventures with toys, apparel and accessories featuring seven-time Piston Cup champion Lightning McQueen, fan-favorite tow truck Mater and more! Take a look at some of them:
Let’s start with some products to look fabulous during the race! The Cars Land Neon Ear Headband Inspired by the popular Disney California Adventure themed area, features the distinctive logo on the front and a glittering red spanner. Lightning McQueen is included in the allover graphics on the padded ears which are edged in a clear piping that glows neon red when turned on. You can get yours online at shopDisney for $29.98.
Then, gear up with this Cars inspired track jacket! It features Lightning McQueen’s signature red, and sports embroidered appliques of the Piston Cup, McQueen’s number, and the racecar himself! His name is embroidered on the white-striped shoulders, and the zippered front and pockets make for easy mobility. Get yours at BoxLunch for $69.90!
Kids will love this Lightning McQueen hoodie and pants set that is super comfy and stylish! It’s available on Amazon for $29.19. There are also Lightning McQueen Swim Sliders for this summer at shopDisney for $16.99.
Your kids will also enjoy carrying around this Lightning McQueen backpack made in the shape of the race car. They will love carrying their most prized possessions like their favorite picture books, snacks, toys . . . and more toys!
The Lightning McQueen Pillow is so cute and fluffy! It will quickly become part of the family providing a cozy pal, whether in the car, at school, or in your home.
Cars Month will launch with Lightning McQueen’s stellar appearance at NASCAR’s season-opening celebration, Clash at the Coliseum! On February 3 and 4, fans of all ages can make a pitstop for photos with #95 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and visit Mattel’s booth for product giveaways and the chance to test drive some of the latest Cars-inspired toys.
Big news for all you talented performers out there: Universal Orlando is currently looking for talented individuals to be part of something truly epic – the all-new Universal Epic Universe them park! Whether you’re an actor, dancer, musician, or have some other amazing talent, this could be your big break!
For full details on the audition requirements, head on over to the Universal auditions site for more information.
This is a golden opportunity for anyone dreaming of performing in a world-class theme park. Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe is set to be a phenomenal place, and you could be part of the magic! Good luck to all of you who audition!
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!
Universal has always been a name synonymous with extraordinary experiences and thrilling adventures. True to its reputation, Universal has announced something truly epic for its fans – the Epic Universe theme park. In an exciting revelation on January 31st, Universal shared some tantalizing details about the all new park that is slated to open next year. Luckily, guests don’t have to wait until 2025 to explore the park further, as Universal also announced an interactive preview center is set to debut at Universal CityWalk later this year!
While many of the full details of Epic Universe are still shrouded in a veil of mystery, Universal has promised to lift the curtain gradually over the coming months. The centerpiece of this gradual reveal is the Epic Universe Preview Center. This center aims to offer a tantalizing sneak peek into what promises to be an unparalleled theme park experience. Though Universal has not confirmed the exact location of this preview center, the buzz is that it will be housed in the space of the recently closed Legacy Store at CityWalk.
The preview center is not just a mere showcase; it is an experience in itself. Visitors can expect a blend of interactive exhibits that will offer a taste of the thrills and innovations Epic Universe promises to bring. This immersive experience will serve as the perfect appetizer for the grand feast that is Epic Universe.
In addition to the interactive exhibits, the center is likely to be a treasure trove for merchandise collectors. An array of Epic Universe-themed merchandise will be available, giving fans a chance to take home a piece of the excitement.
Epic Universe is not just another addition to Universal’s already impressive roster of theme parks. It’s a statement, a testament to Universal’s commitment to innovation and excellence in entertainment. The 5 themed lands brought to life in Epic Universe will be unlike anything we have ever experienced in a theme park. The preview center is the first step in this exciting journey, offering a glimpse into a world that promises to redefine our understanding of theme parks.
As we eagerly await more details about Epic Universe and its preview center, one thing is clear – Universal is gearing up to offer an experience that transcends the ordinary. The Epic Universe Preview Center at CityWalk is just the beginning of this thrilling adventure. Keep your eyes peeled for more updates in the months to come, as Universal is set to unveil more secrets and surprises about Epic Universe.
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!
Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings Unveils New Princess-Inspired Gowns, New Venue and More
Love is in the air as Valentine’s Day approaches, and Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons team is set to make hearts flutter with a collection of enchanting new products and experiences that even Cupid would envy. Among the highlights are the 2024 princess-inspired gown collection by Allure Bridals, a novel wedding venue at EPCOT, and the introduction of a platinum, horse-drawn coach at Disneyland Resort in California. Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of romance with these captivating offerings.
“The new gown collection, EPCOT venue, and coach continue our tradition of bringing fairy tales to life for couples,” said Korri McFann, marketing director, of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons. “Immersive, one-of-a-kind wedding venues set the stage, and we add to that with countless experiences and details that allow us to tell each couple’s unique love story in enchanting and magical ways.”
The 2024 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings gown collection is available starting February 1, 2024. It is inspired by Disney’s Ariel, Aurora, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Rapunzel, Snow White, and Tiana. Each dress evokes the spirit of its namesake princess to capture the bride’s own style and personality. It’s a blend of elegance and fun that can make each bride feel like a princess on the wedding day.
The 18 gowns, two for each princess, are adorned with countless details and feature innovative fabrics, including a signature sparkle tulle on a Jasmine-inspired gown and a
laser-cut whimsical lace design on soft satin to adorn a Rapunzel-inspired style. A Cinderella-inspired ballgown offers a unique platinum colorway, with metallic-backed Chantilly lace and unique beaded lace appliques. For those looking to capture the spirit of the Jazz Age, the Tiana-inspired look emphasizes a glamorous style, shimmering with thousands of beads and sequins.
Disney and Allure Bridals launched their first sophisticated bridal line in 2020, offering stunning, on-trend gowns that showcase the style and spirit of beloved Disney Princess characters. Four years later, Allure Bridals offers options that can transform a bride’s look, such as the detachable overskirts available on a selection of gowns. In addition, the Aurora and Tiana gowns both feature detachable sleeves for a chic, transitional option from aisle to reception. With exquisite details such as ethereal puff sleeves, and dreamy accessories like custom veils and delicate tulle flowers, this new Disney collection offers a dress for every bride’s style.
All bridal gowns are available in sizes 0 to 30, starting at $1,799, and are available to purchase at all authorized Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection retailers.
Couples can now experience the enchantment of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons at a new wedding venue in World Celebration Gardens at EPCOT. It is a lush wedding oasis set against the backdrop of Spaceship Earth, the park’s dramatic 18-story geosphere. At night, the iconic silver sphere transforms with a dazzling nighttime lighting display that can be customized for weddings. Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings offers a variety of stunning wedding venues at Disney destinations around the globe. (Claire Celeste, photographer)Couples can now experience the enchantment of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons at a new wedding venue in World Celebration Gardens at EPCOT. It is a lush wedding oasis set against the backdrop of Spaceship Earth, the park’s dramatic 18-story geosphere. At night, the iconic silver sphere transforms with a dazzling nighttime lighting display that can be customized for weddings. Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings offers a variety of stunning wedding venues at Disney destinations around the globe. (Claire Celeste, photographer)Couples can now experience the enchantment of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons at a new wedding venue in World Celebration Gardens at EPCOT. It is a lush wedding oasis set against the backdrop of Spaceship Earth, the park’s dramatic 18-story geosphere. At night, the iconic silver sphere transforms with a dazzling nighttime lighting display that can be customized for weddings. Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings offers a variety of stunning wedding venues at Disney destinations around the globe. (Claire Celeste, photographer)
Dazzling New EPCOT Wedding Venue
For couples seeking an extraordinary wedding venue, the possibilities are virtually limitless with over 100 immersive themed locations across Disney theme parks, resorts, cruise ships, and other global destinations. Among these enchanting options is the latest addition, World Celebration Gardens, nestled in the heart of EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. This captivating venue is now open for bookings, allowing couples to host private, after-hours ceremonies and receptions starting from January 2025 onward.
Transforming from stunning to awe-inspiring, World Celebration Gardens boasts a distinctive lighting display that casts a radiant glow on iconic landmarks like Spaceship Earth, the towering 18-story geosphere, and the EPCOT icon itself. Serving as the picturesque backdrop, the gardens come to life with a custom lighting enhancement featuring dazzling lights and dynamic color patterns choreographed to music. This creates a magical moment, ensuring that the memories made in this unique setting will be cherished by the newlyweds and their guests for a lifetime.
The Cinderella Platinum Coach, a new addition to the fleet of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings carriages, is now available at Disneyland Resort in Southern California. It features details inspired by the classic Disney love story, Cinderella, and will allow couples to elevate their wedding experience with a special touch of Disney magic. (Jenna Henderson, photographer)The Cinderella Platinum Coach, a new addition to the fleet of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings carriages, is now available at Disneyland Resort in Southern California. It features details inspired by the classic Disney love story, Cinderella, and will allow couples to elevate their wedding experience with a special touch of Disney magic. (Jenna Henderson, photographer)
A New Coach Fit for Royalty at Disneyland Resort
Couples getting married at Disneyland Resort in California can elevate their wedding experience with the new Cinderella Platinum Coach.
The newest coach is adorned with details inspired by Disney’s classic love story “Cinderella,” featuring a pumpkin canopy and an interior shrouded in delicate vines with more than 75 hand-shaped leaves. Available beginning March 2024, it will round out the trio of carriages that includes the Cinderella Coach at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and the Disney Fairy Tale Carriage at Disneyland Paris.To learn more about the new bridal collections, visit www.allurebridals.com. For information on how couples can book a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary or vow renewal, visit DisneyWeddings.com.
Cinderella Castle, inspired by the Disney film Cinderella, is the enchanting icon of Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Abigail Nilsson, Photographer)
(Abigail Nilsson, Photographer)
Disney Visa Card Members can enjoy special room rates at select Disney World Resort Hotels this Spring
Stay in the magic at Walt Disney World Resort! Disney Visa Cardmembers can enjoy special Cardmember rates at select Disney World Resort hotels this spring.
Rates vary based on room type, Resort hotel, and travel dates. For example, use your Disney Visa card to book a stay—and take advantage of special rates—at the following Resort hotels:
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort and Disney’s All-Star Music Resort – $129 per night, plus tax for a Standard Room, for stays most nights from March 25 through April 27, 2024
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort – $229 per night, plus tax for a Standard View Room (accommodates up to 5 Guests), for stays most nights from March 25 through June 29, 2024
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn – $419 per night, plus tax for a Resort View Room, for stays most nights from March 25 through June 29, 2024
Plus, enjoy other great rates at the following Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights from March 25 through June 29, 2024:
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort – Preferred Room
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort – Preferred Room and Family Suites
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (Standard View and Savanna View Rooms)
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort (Cars Family Suite)
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same room. Length of stay requirements may apply.
Valid Travel Dates
Stays most nights from March 25, 2024 through June 29, 2024
Length of Stay Requirements
Minimum – 1 night
Maximum – 14 nights
Important Details
The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited.
Length-of-stay requirements may apply.
If reserving by phone, must mention the offer when booking.
Must use a valid Disney® Visa® Card or Disney Rewards Redemption Card to pay the deposit.
Disney® Visa® Cardmember must stay in the room.
The offer is nontransferable.
Additional per-adult charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room at Disney Value, Moderate, and Deluxe Resorts, and Studios at Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts.
Advance reservations required.
Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.
Offer excludes the following room types: campsites, 3-Bedroom Villas, The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms, The Lion King Family Suites, Finding Nemo Family Suites, and Family Suites at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Standard View – King Bed, Pool View, Pool View – King Bed, Savanna View – King Bed, Savanna View – King Bed – Club Level Access, Standard View, 1 Bedroom Suite – Club Level Access, 2 Bedroom Suite – Club Level Access, Royal Kuba VP Suite – Club Level Access, Royal Asante Presidential Suite – Club Level Access at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Water View, Standard Room – Club Level, Deluxe Room – Club Level, Outer Building – Garden Room – Club Level Access, 2 Bedroom Suite (Accessible) – Club Level, 2 Bedroom Suite – Club Level, Sonora VP Suite – Club Level, Steeplechase Presidential Suite – Club Level at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn and Standard View, Water or Pool View, Water or Pool View – 5th Sleeper, King Bed, or Preferred Room at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.
Valid admission is required to enjoy the theme parks and is not included in this offer. Theme park reservations may be required based on admission type.
Walt Disney Company Drops in Fortune’s 2024 “World’s Most Admired Companies” Ranking
In a notable shift, The Walt Disney Company has experienced a decline in its position on the prestigious Fortune’s list of the “World’s Most Admired Companies” for 2024. The media and entertainment giant, which has historically held a prominent spot on the list, has fallen from its No. 6 ranking in 2023 to the 12th position in the latest edition.
The top three spots on the list are now occupied by tech industry leaders, with Apple securing the first position, followed by Microsoft at No. 2, and Amazon at No. 3. This shift reflects the growing influence and admiration for technology-driven companies in the global business landscape.
However, Disney’s descent goes beyond an overall drop in rankings. Notably, the company has lost its long-standing title as the most admired entertainment company, ceding the top spot to streaming giant Netflix. Additionally, within the Media and Entertainment sector, Disney now holds the fourth position, marking a significant shift from its historical dominance.
For two decades, Disney had maintained its stronghold as the No. 1 most admired entertainment company, showcasing its impact and influence in the industry. The recent changes highlight the evolving dynamics of the media and entertainment landscape, with streaming services gaining prominence.
Fortune’s annual list relies on the insights of over 600 company candidates and the opinions of 3,720 executives, directors, and industry analysts. Participants are asked to assess companies based on nine criteria, encompassing aspects such as investment value, quality of management and products, social responsibility, and the ability to attract talent.
To secure a place on the list, a company’s score must rank in the top half of its respective industry survey. Disney’s descent in the rankings indicates a shifting perception within the business community, emphasizing the need for adaptation and innovation in an ever-changing market.
As the media and entertainment landscape continues to evolve, Disney faces the challenge of maintaining its historic legacy while navigating the emerging trends and preferences that shape the industry’s future.
