Wish Upon a Star

Prior to our last trip, my daughter diligently saved her allowance, birthday money, etc. for a princess makeover at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique before she turned 13 and was too old to participate. She chose the location in Cinderella's castle and selected our Halloween party day (this can be scheduled 180 days out, and appointments fill up fast!) so that she'd be all ready for the party and her costume (Cinderella).   I had seen many kids who had participated in BBB, but I wasn't completely sure what to expect for her from this experience. We were NOT disappointed! Upon entering the castle, K registered with the front desk, and we waited only a few minutes before being called to the royal dressing room, where she was given a shirt, tutu, and sash for her Next, we were escorted to our fairy godmother-in-training (who happened to be K's birthday twin), and her magical makeover began!   There are several package options, but she chose the one that included the shirt,...

This meal is so fun!   We have visited here throughout the years, and it's fun to see how the characters change from year to year.   In the past we've seen Special Agent Oso, the Little Einsteins, and Handy Manny.  Currently, you can visit Jake (the Neverland Pirate), Doc McStuffins, Sofia the first, and Goofy from Mickey and the Roadster Racers.  It's a great chance for little ones to meet their favorites while eating some kid-friendly food - breakfast buffet style!  These characters are so interactive, and they love it when your children match them.   They make a big deal out of birthdays, celebrations, and even just high fives and hugs.  I highly recommend this meal if you have preschool age children -- but even my 10 year old lists this as a must-do for Jake. :) Sometimes you can even score the Fantasmic! package with your meal, guaranteeing you a seat at the nighttime spectacular! *Note: The Disney Jr. characters are only there ...

When you purchase the Disney Photopass Memory Maker along with your ticket and resort purchase, you have Disney photographers waiting to take as many family photos as you want on property.   Photographers are stationed with MOST characters in the park (except at character meals), as well as in prominent locations such as in front of the castle at Magic Kingdom, the Tree of Life in Animal Kingdom, and Spaceship Earth in Epcot.   A special feature of this package is "magic shots," which are photos with surprise "magic" in the photos when they are added to your account.  My kids have always loved Magic Shots, and this time they tried to "collect" as many as they could!   Most photographers won't do many magic shots unless you ask, but sometimes you get a fun, unexpected surprise!  On our last trip we "collected" magic shots!

Last week we visited Trattoria al Forno for a Bon Voyage Adventure breakfast, and we were not disappointed!    The kids were able to meet Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Ariel, and Prince Eric.   Many character breakfasts are buffets, but for this one you order off the menu and also share a platter of pastries brought to your table.   I recommend this breakfast for young princess fans who MUST meet Rapunzel or Ariel.  It's also a good compromise if you also have boys, since they get to meet the princes as well.  :)  

Akershus Storybook Dining Royal Banquet Hall  is such a gem!  Almost like a little-known secret that can rock your world if you have little princess fans!  Many people want to do Cinderella's Royal Table to eat with the princesses, but it books up quickly, takes 2 table-service credits, and can be loud and a little rushed.  While the experience of eating IN the castle can be great, for those who can't or don't want to visit there, Akershus is an excellent choice!! Located in the Norway pavilion at Epcot, Akershus is tucked away and is absolutely delightful!   It is a buffet character meal (we like breakfast best), and various princesses come to your table to meet and greet.    They take their time, make it truly special, sign autographs and pose for endless photographs.  Periodically throughout the meal, they host a "princess parade," where kiddos can go around the restaurant with their favorite princess, waving to the other gu...