Suzannah Otis

Christian Louboutin Unveils Gorgeous Cinderella Inspired Slipper in Paris

5 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 3 Comments

PARIS, FR, July 4, 2012 – The fabled Cinderella slipper which has captured the hearts and imagination of generations of women around the world, comes to life as The Walt Disney Studios and world-renowned shoe designer Christian Louboutin unveil the ultimate, modern- day Cinderella inspired slipper in Paris, during Haute Couture week July 2-5.

Christian Louboutin Cinderella shoe — The final shoe is revealed. © 2012 Disney. All Rights Reserved

“Cinderella is not only an iconic character when it comes to beauty, grace and fairytale love, but also shoes,” explains designer Christian Louboutin. For Louboutin, the worlds of fantasy and shoe-making collided in perfect harmony when he was invited by Disney to re-imagine Cinderella’s famous slipper in honor of Disney’s global release of the classic masterpiece “Cinderella” Diamond Edition on Blu-rayTM this Fall.

Cinderella’s legendary slippers have been re-imagined with the mastery of one of this generation’s most important designers. Lightness, beauty and transparency are the words with which Louboutin describes this special pair; they are a dream materialized. The designer’s magic touch brings this iconic shoe to reality and gives it a modern twist. Delicate lace adorned with crystals gives these slippers an enchanting look. Two sparkling butterflies rest prettily on the shoes, one landing on the vamp while the other sits closely behind atop of the crystal covered heel, gently brushing the ankle. Louboutin’s signature red soles add the final dash of excitement as Cinderella’s slippers come alive. “Her character and her story dictated the design to me, it was all there in the pages and the words of this tale,” explained the designer.

“The slipper is the magic wand of transformation

which conjures confidence, beauty and love.” – Christian Louboutin

Christian Louboutin’s famous red soles are instantly recognizable for their elegance, innovative, playful designs and femininity. “The dream is a major factor in my language of design,” said Louboutin. This whimsical quality is paramount to his creations, which have been embraced by women all over the world. Louboutin’s limitless imagination, adventurous spirit and the inspiration he draws from the world and people around him have helped turn his own dreams into reality. For Louboutin, “there are no limits in the world of fantasy and there is always a happily ever after.”

As part of the celebration, a few lucky, modern day Cinderella’s will have the chance to be a part of the magic and win one of the twenty original slippers created for this collaboration. Further details about the contest and participating markets to follow.

About Christian Louboutin:

French designer Christian Louboutin’s red soles have stamped an inimitable mark on the world of fashion and shoe making over the past twenty years. Born in Paris and raised by his mother and three sisters, the designer credits this feminine environment as the inspiration for much of his work. The innovation and imagination behind Louboutin’s mesmerizing shoes and his utter devotion to women have established him as one of the world’s most visionary and important shoemakers.

Breaking: First Official Poster for Oz The Great And Powerful

4 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

Disney’s fantastical adventure “Oz The Great and Powerful,” directed by Sam Raimi, imagines the origins of L. Frank Baum’s beloved character, the Wizard of Oz. When Oscar Diggs (James Franco), a small-time circus magician with dubious ethics, is hurled away from dusty Kansas to the vibrant Land of Oz, he thinks he’s hit the jackpot—fame and fortune are his for the taking—that is until he meets three witches, Theodora (Mila Kunis), Evanora (Rachel Weisz) and Glinda (Michelle Williams), who are not convinced he is the great wizard everyone’s been expecting. Reluctantly drawn into the epic problems facing the Land of Oz and its inhabitants, Oscar must find out who is good and who is evil before it is too late. Putting his magical arts to use through illusion, ingenuity—and even a bit of wizardry—Oscar transforms himself not only into the great and powerful Wizard of Oz but into a better man as well.

Oz the Great and Powerful Teaser Poster — Oz the Great and Powerful official teaser movie poster – opening 2013 – click to enlarge

“Oz The Great and Powerful” is produced by Joe Roth and written by Mitchell Kapner and David Lindsay-Abaire (credit not final). Grant Curtis, Philip Steuer and Palak Patel are serving as executive producers. “Oz The Great and Powerful” opens in U.S. theaters on March 8, 2013.

Fourth of July Festivities and Fireworks at Walt Disney World Resort

4 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

JULY 4TH CELEBRATED AT WALT DISNEY WORLD IN FLORIDA — Cinderella Castle with patriotic projections ©Disney

Here are all the official events going on at Disney Parks here in Florida tonight! For the first time ever, I’ll actually be attending Fourth of July activities at Epcot. I know it’ll be super busy, but it should be super fun too. The last time I was in a Disney park on the Fourth, I was working at the Magic Kingdom in 1995, so it’ll be nice to experience again, on the opposite side of the coin. I wish you all a wonderful patriotic day with family and friends! Enjoy good food and spectacular fireworks as we celebrate our freedom!

Walt Disney World Resort will pixie dust the night skies July 4 with special pyrotechnic shows, including a patriotic display at Magic Kingdom, a rock’n’roll spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and a classic sky show at Epcot infused with an Independence Day finale. Here’s how you can celebrate America’s birthday – Disney-style:

Magic Kingdom will present “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky.” This patriotic fireworks spectacular, paying homage to the hopes and dreams of America’s forefathers, will light the skies at 9 p.m. July 4 – and for guests who would like to begin the Independence Day celebration early, the show also will be presented July 3 at 9 p.m.

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, traditional Fourth of July fireworks take on a different spin when Mulch, Sweat, and Shears perform for the all-new “Rockin’ 4^th of July Celebration.” These resident landscapers – with serious rock and roll ambitions – take Disney guests on a musical road trip across America that will highlight each region’s contribution to rock and roll. Fireworks, lighting and special effects – backed by the driving live rock and roll of Mulch, Sweat, and Shears – combine to bring a new twist to celebrating Independence Day. Showtime July 4 is 9:45 p.m. Before the show, Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests can catch Disney’s Fantasmic!, performing July 4 at 9 p.m.
At Epcot, sky-watchers can check out “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” bursting high above World Showcase Lagoon. IllumiNations is a 14-minute spectacular during which pyrotechnics, lasers, water and music are all used to tell a story about the past, present and future of our planet. On the Fourth of July, the show will be enhanced with “The Heartbeat of Freedom,” an overture of traditional Americana themes displayed in a pyrotechnic and laser light event. The show is at 10 p.m.

In addition, Epcot guests may lend their ears to “Voices of Liberty 4^th of July Concert” and meet with Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross and Disney characters adorned in patriotic dress at American Adventure.

Theme park hours on July 4 (subject to change without notice): Magic Kingdom, 8 a.m.-1 a.m.; Epcot, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Disney’s Animal Kingdom, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Miranda Cosgrove Celebrates Despicable Me Minion Mayhem At Universal Orlando Resort

3 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Despicable Me Minion Mayhem Grand OpeningPublicity — Celebrity guests Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Gaier and Elsie Fisher – the voices of Gru’s daughters Margo, Edith and Agnes, joined dozens of “minionized” children to celebrate the grand opening of Universal Orlando Resort’s newest attraction, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, on July 2, 2012.
© 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

Yesterday saw the grand opening and “yellow carpet” premiere of Universal Orlando Resort‘s newest attraction – Despicable Me Minion Mayhem at Universal Studios Florida. Stars from the film were on-hand to celebrate the ride and experience the fun for themselves. I can’t wait to get over there myself and check it out, during this “Year To Be Here” – but in the meantime, here’s all the official news and photos from Universal Orlando Resort:

Based on the blockbuster Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment film Despicable Me, the ride was created by Universal Orlando in partnership with Chris Meledandri, founder and CEO of Illumination, and his filmmaking colleagues. The ride places guests in the midst of an original adventure that combines a new storyline, new animation, the latest 3-D technology – and the heart, outrageous humor and memorable characters of the film.

There is something for every guest and every family: a heartwarming family story, hysterical minions and a disco-inspired dance party.

Guests will meet their favorite characters from the film – all voiced by the original cast: Gru (Steve Carell), the world’s greatest super-villain, and his daughters Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier) and Agnes (Elsie Fisher). They will enter the ride through the towering façade of Gru’s house, pick up 3-D “minion goggles” in his living room and be scanned for “human germs” in the Minionization Prep Room.

Gru is working on something “really big” and recruits guests for the job, transforms them into minions and
sends them off for minion training. From there, guests go on a wild ride where they evade water sprayers,
giant flyswatters, anti-gravity rooms and more.

“We worked to blend the spirit and heart of the film with a great new adventure for our guests and their families,” said Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative. “Where else can your family laugh, dance, celebrate and become a minion all at the same time?”

“We’re so excited to introduce an entirely new experience that truly captures all the heart, humor and emotion audiences have come to love about Despicable Me,” said Meledandri. “Fans of the film can now have fun and interact with their favorite Despicable Me characters in a way they haven’t been able to before.”

The attraction’s grand opening caps Universal Orlando’s “Year to be Here” – during which Universal debuted more new entertainment experiences across its entire destination than any other year in its history. Despicable Me Minion Mayhem follows the debut of a newly-enhanced Blue Man Group Show at Universal CityWalk, the high-tech re-launch of The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and the spring openings of Universal’s Superstar Parade and Universal’s Cinematic Spectacular – 100 Years of Movie Memories at Universal Studios Florida.

For more information about Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.universalorlando.com.

Check out a fun video from InsideTheMagic, showcasing the ride queue, post-queue and merchandise shop:

Meet Otters And Swim Trails at Freshwater Oasis Now Open at Discovery Cove

29 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Remember the huge expansion Discovery Cove unveiled last year across from Sea World Orlando? They are now adding another new area – Freshwater Oasis.

Now open at Discovery Cove in Orlando is Freshwater Oasis, an all-new attraction featuring wading adventures and face-to-face encounters with playful otters and curious marmosets.

Designed with a rainforest canopy above and sparkling-clear springs below, Freshwater Oasis is a natural fit within Discovery Cove’s tropical atmosphere. Guests can relax, explore and swim in the water-filled trails. No matter where they turn, guests will find endless discoveries.

Freshwater Oasis is included with admission to Discovery Cove, an all-inclusive tropical day resort where guests can swim with dolphins, snorkel with colorful fish and rays, hand-feed exotic birds and relax on pristine beaches, plus enjoy unlimited admission for 14 days to sister parks SeaWorld and Aquatica in Orlando.

Limited to approximately 1,000 guests per day, Discovery Cove requires advance reservations which can be made at DiscoveryCove.com or by calling 1-877-434-7268. Seasonal rates for Discovery Cove’s Dolphin Swim Day Resort Package start at $229 (rates for Day Resort Package without dolphin swim experience and guests ages 3-5 start at $149).

To learn more about Freshwater Oasis, visit DiscoveryCove.com.

Disney Pixar’s Brave Gorgeous Nail Art Tutorial!

29 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

I am a fan of all things nail polish-related and after falling in love with Brave in theaters, when I saw this nail art tutorial, I had to share! It looks relatively easy too, even if you didn’t want to go all out with the beads, the rest of the nails look like anyone can bravely attempt the design. 😉

The tutorial is done by Cute Polish which also has a whole line of Disney and other nail art tutorial on the Disney Style channel on YouTube.

Check out the video tutorial below!

This video is part of Disney’s celebration of ONE BILLION views on its YouTube channels. This week, the company is celebrating these milestones with a special 10-day programming event on its YouTube network. New original and exclusive videos will be introduced from across Disney, including Disney Parks, Radio Disney, Games, and Theatrical, and its YouTube content partners.

The program schedule includes:

6/24 – A nail art tutorial from CutePolish inspired by Disney•Pixar’s “Brave”

6/25 – An exclusive short from Simon’s Cat — “Window Pain”

6/26 – A One Direction acoustic performance from Radio Disney

6/27 – A look at the new Cars Land at Disney California Adventure® Park

6/28 – An exclusive video from YouTube’s ShanesDominoez, titled “Domorail”

6/29 – Episode 4 of Disney Interactive’s animated Web series, “Talking Friends”

6/30 — “Rainbow Connection” performed by Anna Graceman

7/1 – The first-ever Club Penguin music video with DJ Cadence

7/2 – Behind the curtain at Disney’s Tony® Award winning musical, Newsies

7/3 – The premiere of That’s Fresh, a new cooking show from parenting network Babble

Check out all the videos at YouTube.com/Disney. I know I was really surprised at all the diverse and fun stuff on there!

Fourth of July Events at SeaWorld Orlando

28 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Celebrate the Fourth of July at SeaWorld Orlando. In addition to Summer Nights special nighttime shows, an extended set of Reflections fireworks will blast off starting with a special pre-show at 9:30 p.m. at Bayside Stadium. An extraordinary performance by the Navy Band Southeast’s Wind Ensemble, a 40-piece band performing a variety of popular music ranging from traditional marches and patriotic fare to classical favorites and Broadway hits, kicks off the festivities. The celebration ends with the awe-inspiring Reflections fireworks and fountains show at 10:30 p.m. that include an extended set including an honorary tribute to the United States.

Guests can enjoy SeaWorld even later on July 4^th as the park is open until 11 p.m. Families can experience the all-new TurtleTrek, the world’s first 3D 360 dome theater experience, ride Manta under the stars (and fireworks!) and enjoy our amazing Summer Nights shows:

Sea Lions Tonite SeaWorld’s popular sea lion comedic duo takes the laughs into the night. Hilarious hijinks ensue in this evening show as the park’s talented sea lions, otters and walrus parody other favorite daytime SeaWorld shows and attractions. And this year, a new spoof based on the park’s newest attraction – TurtleTrek — will keep guests laughing all night long.

Shamu Rocks SeaWorld’s spectacular whale show with more flash – and certainly more splash – than a rock concert. Shamu Rocks is a high-energy celebration of unprecedented proportions, combining awe-inspiring whales with a stunning light show, water fountain display and music from some of the hottest rock stars in the industry.

Reflections: Fireworks and Fountains Show Finale
SeaWorld is showcased in a whole new light during this spectacular celebration of soaring fountains and dazzling fireworks. A newly arranged soundtrack features the thrilling and inspirational music of SeaWorld’s most popular shows, including segments of the incredible score from TurtleTrek. Families and friends will experience a wondrous connection that lights the night like never before.

For more information, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com.

Medieval Times Premiers Epic New Show, Costumes, and Music!

28 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

One of the wonderful things about the Orlando area is that there are countless attractions and activities for everyone. Medieval Times is a well-known show with locations across the country, where you know going in what to expect – a royally good time. Before you write them off as just being a show with knights on horses and no utensils, Medieval Times has just premiered an all-new show to keep things fresh and exciting. I could not remember the last time I had been to Medieval Times, I think it was when my oldest (now 13) was a wee one. However, now that I’ve been back, I can’t wait to go again.

The whole Medieval Times castle is wonderfully themed and the time you can wait before seating begins is filled with knighting ceremonies, photo opportunities by roaming castle-dwellers, and merchandise to peruse. There are also three cash bars and a lovely “wine cellar” seating area which makes waiting for the show to start relaxing and fun. Soon the knights are announced and begin roaming around and taking photos before guests are called to their table by the color of their crowns they were given upon arrival. I was really impressed with the well-organized check-in process and reception area. It made my family and I genuinely excited for the night (and knights haha) ahead.

Medieval Times Orlando — I love the castle reception area – the ceiling is gorgeous and there are details everywhere.

Once inside, service instantly began with servers explaining the evening’s fare for us and how things worked. The menu is conveniently printed inside the napkin so you know what to expect. As recent vegetarians, my husband and I let the server know and we were and there were no issues with that. We were still able to enjoy the delicious tomato soup and garlic bread, and the main entree was a lovely combination of hummus and pita chips, a veggie kabob, wild rice and some of the potato wedges served with the regular dinner. I was pleasantly surprised. I do wish they’d have an alternative for small children though. My three-year old was not into any of the choices, and ended up eating bits of the bread and drinking orange juice for the night.

Medieval Times Orlando Menu — The bill of fare for the evening

Medieval Times Orlando vegetarian platter — The vegetarian platter was delicious – and they give you utensils! Shhh!

The new show was wonderful and definitely kept everyone entertained and happy. You’ll still find the action-packed knight battles, but this time there is an invader from the north to liven things up and keep the show going even after the winning knight triumphed. There are also beautiful and amazing horses who perform in between battles and a falcon who flies around the entire arena. New costumes and an exciting new musical score round out the new show. It was a fabulous night of entertainment that had everyone cheering and on their feet by the end of the night. I can’t recommend the show and the entire Medieval Times experience enough and I look forward to our next visit.

Medieval Times Orlando New Show — This amazing horse jumped straight in the air! Photo ©Medieval Times

For more photos, check out the Zannaland Facebook page album – and see the new parts of the show too! (and feel free to “LIKE” my Facebook page while you’re there!)

Check out more info at MedievalTimes.com and book your visit today online or by calling 1-888-WE-JOUST.

Guests also can find Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament on Facebook and Twitter.

My family and I were provided with complimentary admission to Medieval Times for this event, but as always, my opinions and thoughts were my own.

Marvel Avenger’s Fans – Make Your Own Pocket Loki!

26 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

I saw a crafty Facebook friend post this link and little amigurumi style Pocket Loki instantly won me over – I knew I had to share him here. Check out the adorableness that is Pocket Loki:

At Over the Bifrost, Pocket Loki visits places and poses with things!

Pocket Avengers Loki — Photo from Over the Bifrost on Tumblr.

You can find the pattern and how to make Pocket Loki on Ravelry.com and take a little Loki with you everywhere!

Mary Blair Inspired Disney Small World LeSportsac Purses

25 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Mary Blair Le Sportsac Small World Tahitian — The “Tahitian Dreams” in the Casey style bag – $48

I recently saw the LeSportsac Disney It’s a Small World collection of handbags and accessories and when I saw one of the designs, I fell in love. I ordered one for my upcoming trip to Disneyland in August and it arrived today so I thought I’d post about all the current designs. The collection will be releasing five sets of designs, seasonally, but I couldn’t resist the redheaded mermaid charm that comes on the Tahitian design. Here’s the official press release from Disney Consumer Products below – and you can see the rest of the available designs and purchase them at LeSportsac.com :

LeSportsac and Disney Consumer Products launched the Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac collection about a month ago, featuring handbags, totes and accessories that combine the bright aesthetic of LeSportsac with inspiration from the mid-century artwork of Disney artist Mary Blair who created the whimsical look of the beloved Disney theme park attraction “it’s a small world.”

Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac collection includes five seasonal deliveries, each inspired by a specific country. In addition to celebrating a country, each delivery will be anchored with a Signature Tote and a colorful print that pays tribute to the unique facades and architectural works of Disney’s “it’s a small world” Theme park attraction. The collection kicks off with a celebration of Tahiti that includes two graphic totes and a range of 12 styles in two vibrant prints.

“We are so inspired by Blair’s original art and the “it’s a small world” theme of global awareness,” said D’Arcy Jensen, Vice President, Global Creative Director, LeSportsac. “Each collectible design we are creating is a colorful narrative that is sure to delight fans of Disney, Mary Blair and LeSportsac alike.”

The “it’s a small world” attraction, which debuted at the New York World’s Fair in 1964, was created by Walt Disney both as a salute to UNICEF and his belief that everyone is united in their love of children and dreams of a better tomorrow. In keeping with the original philanthropic message of “it’s a small world,” Disney will make a donation to UNICEF in honor of “it’s a small world” and all product in the Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac collection will include a special hangtag sharing the history of the original attraction and the connection to UNICEF.

“Our collaboration with LeSportsac pays homage to the magical experience of “it’s a small world” while continuing the legacy of the message behind one of Disney’s most beloved theme park attractions,” said Robert Oberschelp, director, Disney Collections, DCP. “Walt Disney’s vision is as powerful and true today as it was when he first shared it with the world.”

The Disney It’s a Small World by LeSportsac Collection is available online at LeSportsac.com and at all LeSportsac flagship boutiques worldwide. LeSportsac is also available at better department stores and select specialty stores.