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Walt Disney

Photos: “Disney Springs” to Revitalize Downtown Disney Area

14 March 2013 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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As an early visitor to Walt Disney World, back in 1983, one of my very favorite parts of our vacation was the Lake Buena Vista Village Marketplace area, or “The Village” as my family called it. Our first visits to WDW included stays at the Lake Buena Vista Vacation Villas, part of a set of villas where Saratoga Springs now resides. Your stay at one of the villas (larger town-home style rooms with bedrooms, a living area and kitchen) included a golf cart, and we would ride over to the Village every day, either for breakfast at the Empress Lilly, dinner at Heidelberg’s Deli, or for stocking up on snacks at the Gourmet Pantry. It was such a truly relaxed, unique area; it became forever engrained in my memories as “Walt Disney World.”

Over time, changes took place at the Village Marketplace, and Downtown Disney, Pleasure Island, and West Side were born. More and more visitors came to Walt Disney World and Disney answered with more shopping and dining experiences. But something was lost along the way: that relaxing, Florida feeling that made such an impression on me as a child. So when I heard the latest announcement regarding Disney Springs, I was thrilled that perhaps this would again be a place for beautiful sites and memories to be born. Hearing the description with emphasis on meandering springs, open-air promenades and waterfront charm gives me hope for this new area to capture the right balance of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Here is the official announcement from Disney this morning:

Disney Springs will feature an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands. From boutique shops to unique flagship anchor stores, guests will be able to explore a variety of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences and discover options unlike any other currently available in Central Florida.

Disney Unveils Vision for Disney Springs
Along with an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands, Disney Springs (as shown in this conceptual rendering) will feature a new gateway with a signature water tower and grand entry.

“Disney Springs will be a timeless, vibrant place where Walt Disney World guests and local residents can relax, shop, dine and be entertained in an imaginative setting where they’ll instantly feel at home,” said Tom Staggs, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “Featuring distinctive brands, world-class restaurants and unforgettable entertainment, Disney Springs will be brought to life with the same focus on storytelling and attention to detail that goes into our theme parks, resorts and cruise ships, resulting in a welcoming space that only Disney could create.”

Disney Unveils Vision for Disney Springs
Downtown Disney is undergoing a multi-year transformation, representing the largest expansion in its history. The renamed Disney Springs (as shown in this conceptual model) will double the number of shopping, dining and entertainment experiences, and feature an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands.

Disney Springs will double the number of shops, restaurants and other venues for guests to explore, resulting in more than 150 establishments. In addition, Staggs noted, Central Florida stands to benefit from the expansion with more jobs, tax revenues and business opportunities.

Disney Unveils Vision for Disney Springs – Marketplace
As part of Disney Springs, the family-friendly Marketplace (as shown in this conceptual rendering) will continue to delight guests of all ages and include new experiences, such as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway.

Drawing inspiration from Florida’s waterfront towns and natural beauty, Disney Springs will include four outdoor neighborhoods interconnected by a flowing spring and vibrant lakefront. In addition to a new gateway with a signature water tower and grand entry, the destination will feature:

  • The Town Center, which offers a sophisticated mix of shopping and dining along with a promenade where guests can relax, refresh and reconnect.
Disney Unveils Vision for Disney Springs – Town Center and The
With a flowing spring as a centerpiece, Disney Springs will feature four outdoor neighborhoods including the two shown in an artist’s conceptual rendering. The Town Center (lower portion of the image) will offer one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experiences along a promenade while The Landing (upper portion of the image) will include inspired dining and beautiful waterfront views.

 

  • A colorful and thriving commercial district called The Landing with inspired dining and beautiful waterfront views.
Disney Unveils Vision for Disney Springs – West Side
Inviting and infused with character, Disney Springs will feature four outdoor neighborhoods including The Landing (as shown in this conceptual rendering) which offers inspired dining, retail and beautiful waterfront views.

 

  • The family-friendly Marketplace that will continue to delight guests of all ages by combining new experiences, such as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway, along with classic Disney favorites, including an expanded World of Disney store.
  • A West Side that provides an exuberant atmosphere with lively entertainment, along with a series of new elevated spaces that provide both shade and an overlook to the activity below.

 

Disney Unveils Vision for Disney Springs – West Side
Along with an eclectic and contemporary mix from Disney and other noteworthy brands, Disney Springs (as shown in this conceptual rendering) will feature a new gateway with a signature water tower and grand entry.

 

Collectively, these efforts will not only have an impact within Walt Disney World, but will also have an economic ripple effect on Central Florida. The project will create an estimated 1,200 construction jobs and nearly 4,000 operational roles.

Disney will share more details on specific experiences coming to Disney Springs in the future. Construction is slated to begin next month with new areas opening in phases. Disney Springs is expected to be complete in 2016.

What do you think of this announcement? Are you excited for Disney Springs? Disney has not officially announced the restaurants or shops which will sign on for Disney Springs, but one of the many rumors is Trader Sams, the tiki bar made so popular at the Disneyland Hotel. I’m very excited for the possibilities!

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Filed Under: Disney Dining, Disney Merchandise, Disney News, Top Stories Tagged With: boutique shops, disney pleasure island, Disney Springs, Downtown Disney, downtown disney pleasure island, Downtown Disney refurb, Downtown Disney remodel, empress lilly, gourmet pantry, home style, lake buena vista, marketplace area, promenades, saratoga springs, Trader Sams, vacation villas, village marketplace, Walt Disney, Walt Disney World

Guest Post: One Man’s Journey to Marceline

7 March 2013 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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“To tell the truth, more things of importance happened to me in Marceline than have happened since – or are likely to in the future.”

With those words, Walt Disney certainly set the bar high for Marceline, Missouri. The man created an entertainment empire, winning 32 Academy Awards and millions of admirers the world over, but he held up his adopted Missouri hometown as of chief importance. Whether the proof is in Walt’s own words, the proliferation of barnyard hijinks in the early Disney cartoon shorts, or his famous love for trains, Marceline clearly meant the world to Walt Disney.

But one aspect of this story has stubbornly puzzled me. Born in Chicago, Walt and his family lived in Marceline for only about five years, moving to Kansas City when the young Walt was ten years old. Just how could Marceline make such a big impact on a boy who lived there for such a relatively short time?

That question fueled my interest in visiting Marceline and experiencing Walt’s hometown for myself. This past July finally presented my opportunity to make this Disney pilgrimage. Although my visit lasted little more than one day, that was all the time it took to prove that Disney magic exists in abundance in that small Missouri town.

 

Main Street USA

 

Much like the Disney parks, the Marceline experience begins on Main Street USA. Main Street (née Kansas Avenue) has been renamed to reflect the significance Marceline’s town center had on Walt’s plans for the turn-of-the-century entrance to Disneyland. Lined with antique shops and eateries, Marceline’s Main Street oozes with the spirit of its Disneyland namesake. It is truly authentic, compared to the nostalgic fantasy of its California cousin.

My first stop was the Uptown Theatre. When the Disney brothers returned to Marceline in 1956 for the dedication of the town’s new swimming pool and municipal park, Walt and Roy arranged for the Midwestern premiere of “The Great Locomotive Chase” to be held there. The children of Marceline packed the theatre – often two or three to a single seat – for this special Disney film premiere.

Sadly, those seats now sit empty as the theater has shuttered its operation and now runs as a bed and breakfast. While several different suites were on offer, I couldn’t look past staying in the Walt Disney Suite. This spacious suite was decked out with Disney decor and only reinforced my desire to get out and explore the town. Many thanks to Debbie Foster, the bed and breakfast’s proprietor, who made the entire experience a delight. [Since my visit, Debbie has sold the Uptown Theatre and no longer runs either the bed and breakfast or attached bakery.]

All checked in, it was time to finally see the Walt Disney Hometown Museum. Run by the inimitable Kaye Malins and a cadre of volunteers, the museum is found within Marceline’s old railroad depot. It is the centerpiece of the town’s celebration of Walt Disney and is definitely not to be missed.

One of the more memorable aspects of visiting a Disney park is the boundless charm of the Cast Members. But the impeccable cheerfulness of the Disney employees just might have been outshone by the citizens of Marceline. Main Street was far from bustling, but everyone I met stopped, greeted me warmly, and asked if they could provide any assistance. All were undeniably proud of their town’s fame as Walt Disney’s hometown and equally enthused to welcome any and all visitors.

Walking towards the Museum, I passed by E.P. Ripley Park, named in honor of the Santa Fe Railway founder. After all, Marceline owed its very existence to the Santa Fe. In 1887 the railroad needed somewhere to stop for supplies and fuel on its run between Chicago and Kansas City. The town of Marceline sprung up from this new stop.

 

Gazebo at Ripley Park

 

Housed in a large red-brick building, the Walt Disney Hometown Museum is an impressive sight. Once inside, I could not believe my luck when I learned that today’s tour guide would be Inez. A museum volunteer, Inez holds the special distinction of being an actual family friend of Walt Disney. She recounted the story of how she and her husband, Rush, were asked to host the Disney family during their 1956 visit. Since the town’s hotel did not offer air conditioning, a cooler solution was sought, leading to Rush and Inez’s house.

 

Walt Disney Hometown Museum

 

Inez laughed that, in the run-up to the Disneys’ arrival, she was quite worried that her home was not nice enough for this important honor. Fearing that Walt would be unimpressed with his accommodations, the entire town pitched in and moved their very best furniture into Inez’s house. All was for naught, though, once the Disneys arrived. Their Hollywood guests were humble and unassuming – there had been no need to put on airs for them.

Stories such as this made the tour fly by. After a quick talk about Walt’s life in Marceline, the group was turned loose into the larger galleries in the building’s rear and upper floor. The Hometown Museum has a remarkable collection – ranging from an actual Midget Autopia car to seemingly endless personal correspondence between members of the Disney family. Although my time was in short supply, many more hours would have been well spent fully reading through the many letters Walt exchanged with his sister, Ruth.

My next stop was Walt’s old home, located just a quick drive from the Museum. While the house is privately owned, the owners have been gracious enough to provide a small parking area where guests can get out and walk to the Dreaming Tree and barn.

 

Son of the Dreaming Tree

 

Well, what is left of the Dreaming Tree anyway. A victim of repeated lightning strikes, the tree’s lifeless remnants are all that remain of the site where Walt would regale his sister with imaginative tales of wit and whimsy. Long summer days were spent playing and daydreaming beneath that tree, making it even more heartbreaking that it has been ravaged by nature.

To Marceline’s credit, they could not stand to see lightning rob the world of Walt’s Dreaming Tree. A descendant of the original was planted nearby – the Son of the Dreaming Tree. The Son has a long way to go before it will rival the size of its father, but the new Dreaming Tree serves as a simple reminder that imagination cannot be defeated.

Walt’s barn is then just a short jaunt further onto the property. The barn offers something extra special for the visiting Disney fans – everyone is encouraged to sign the interior walls with a short message to honor Marceline’s famed son.

 

Walt's Barn

 

The only problem? In my shortsightedness, I had forgotten to bring a marker. While trying to shrug off this memory lapse, I was reminded of another of Inez’s stories from the Museum tour.

In that very barn, young Walt had once held a makeshift circus for the children of Marceline, charging a small amount for admittance. His show-stopping trick was to fill a sack with cats and then have them jump free. As that was the high point of the show, the audience was less than amused and demanded a refund. Walt’s mother, Flora, made her son return the money to his dissatisfied friends. But he was left with something of far greater value than a handful of dimes. Walt had learned his first lesson in showmanship – always exceed your audience’s expectations.

Marceline has a special peacefulness at night. As the sun set, so too did all of the activity on Main Street. It presented a great chance to fully take in all that I had learned about Walt Disney that day. I had also driven out to the Municipal Park and the Elementary School (which both bear Walt’s name), but the majority of my trip was devoted to those areas that might explain how his time in Marceline shaped the man Walt Disney would later become.

After a restful night in the Walt Disney Suite and an unforgettable breakfast buffet (prepared by Debbie Foster), it was finally time for my long trip home. Yet, as I drove down Main Street USA on my way out of town, I was already mentally planning my next trip to Marceline.

And perhaps that craving to return was the best answer to my quest to learn how Marceline had so deeply affected Walt in such a short time. The true magic of Marceline is that you only have to spend a short time there to be moved and inspired forever.

–Kevin Carpenter

About Kevin Carpenter: Kevin first visited Walt Disney World in 1989 and has been studying the life and career of Walt ever since. When not writing, he works in professional soccer from his home in Ohio. You may also find him on twitter at @kejca.

 

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Filed Under: Disney Past, Guest Authors, Reviews, Top Stories Tagged With: barnyard, Disney magic, Guest Authors, guest post, Kevin Carpenter, Main Street, Main Street USA, Marceline, marceline missouri, missouri town, The Dreaming Tree, uptown theatre, Walt Disney, Walt Disney history, Walt Disney Hometown Museum, Walt Disney's childhood, Walt Disney's hometown, Walt's Barn

Splitsville Luxury Lanes-Bowling Dining & More at Downtown Disney

18 December 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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Splitsville Orlando There’s a new kingpin in town, Downtown Disney that is! After much anticipation, Splitsville luxury lanes is set to open Wednesday, December 19 in Downtown Disney’s West Side. Splitsville is bowling like you’ve never experienced before (unless you’ve visited one of their other successful locations across the country) – all of the fun of bowling with friends and family, mixed with great food and an even better atmosphere.

Set in the former Virgin Megastore building, Splitsville has completely redesigned the building and it is a marvel to see first hand. The process at Splitsville is a little different; you sign up for a bowling lane and tell them your shoe size and they bring the shoes to you and set you up in a lane. Then you get 1.5 hours of bowling and can enjoy drinks and dining while you bowl. If you’d like to just hang out for the music or food, that’s cool too. The second floor of Splitsville in Downtown Disney is only open to those 21+ after 10pm. Regular hours are from 10am-2am, 7 days a week. Pricing varies based on when you go, but for now it is $20 per person for an hour and a half of bowling, including shoe rental, during the peak hours of 5-10pm. If you’d like to bring your whole family, you are welcome to bowl downstairs where there is no age limit – drinks and food are still available downstairs as well – including a sushi bar!

After experiencing the vibe at Splitsville in Downtown Disney twice now, I am excited for the potential this brand has to invigorate and enliven the Downtown Disney atmosphere. I know there is a great need for things to do at Walt Disney World “after hours” since most things close at midnight or before, so this seems like a natural fit for couples and solo travelers visiting the World, as well as, of course, locals. Whether there will be discounts for locals, cast members and annual passholders remains to be seen, but I am sure Splitsville will be a great fit and personally look forward to the future with possible bowling leagues and fun get-togethers among friends.

Splitsville Orlando
Central Florida mural with local images

The decor and theming in the Downtown Disney Splitsville is just fantastic. They have kept the retro 50’s bowling theme going with shiny red and black vinyl and mid-century modern lighting everywhere, along with adding some touches specific to our location, like Orlando-specific landmarks and nods to our orange grove history. In addition, downstairs is an absolutely amazing mural designed after the 1970’s merchandise bags which Walt Disney World history buffs love so much. It is just a perfect fit and a detail which did not go unnoticed or unappreciated by the many fans who visited the lanes before its official opening. Well done, Splitsville and Disney!

Splitsville Orlando
Amazing 1970’s Walt Disney World Vacation Kingdom mural

In addition to the nightly bowling, billiards, dancing and dining, Splitsville Orlando will be offering New Year’s Eve 21+ packages, with ($175 per person) or without ($100 per person) bowling which will include food options, drinks and Champagne with a reserved table for 3.5 hours. You can contact [email protected] or call 407-938-PINS for more information and reservations. You can also make lane and special event reservations online for birthdays and more.

Here’s a gallery of more images from Splitsville Orlando:

Splitsville Orlando
Goofy on-hand to open Splitsville
Splitsville Orlando
Splitsville Orlando
The Splitsville check-in area
Splitsville Orlando
Fun Splitsville merchandise
Splitsville Orlando
Fun Splitsville merchandise
Splitsville Orlando
Lanes downstairs with a window view
Splitsville Orlando
Splitsville mugs
Splitsville Orlando
Splitsville bags and totes
Splitsville Orlando
Upstairs pool tables
Splitsville Orlando
The escalators upstairs with one of the many bars at Splitsville
Splitsville Orlando
More lanes upstairs
Splitsville Orlando
Amazing 1970’s Walt Disney World Vacation Kingdom mural
Splitsville Orlando
Amazing 1970’s Walt Disney World Vacation Kingdom mural
Splitsville Orlando
Amazing 1970’s Walt Disney World Vacation Kingdom mural
Splitsville Orlando
Splitsville Orlando
Splitsville at night
Splitsville Orlando
Lovely chandelier at Splitsville Orlando
Splitsville Orlando
Billiards tables
Splitsville Orlando
Giant orange with a hidden Mickey at Splitsville in Downtown Disney
Splitsville Orlando
Central Florida mural with local images
Splitsville Orlando
Sparkly lanes!
Splitsville Orlando
Fun Mickey bowling balls at Downtown Disney’s Splitsville
Splitsville Orlando
Shoes at Splitsville
Splitsville Orlando
Splitsville etiquette “rules”
Splitsville Orlando
Splitsville at night

 

Disclosure: I visited the Splitsville Downtown Disney location as media during a special dedication event on December 7, and also as a guest of the Disney Parks Blog meet-up, held on December 17. I was provided with free bowling, food and drinks during both visits. My opinions and thoughts are my own and unaffected by this access from Disney. My thanks to Walt Disney World and the Disney Parks Blog for the opportunities. Keep an eye on the official Disney Parks Blog for future meet-ups, as well as the @WaltDisneyWorld twitter account for a hint or two before the meet-ups are announced.

 

 

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Filed Under: Central Florida Family Entertainment, Disney News, Top Stories, Walt Disney World Tagged With: #WDWSplitsville, bowling lane, bowling leagues, Disney bowling, Disney locals, Disney nightlife, Disney Parks Blog, Downtown Disney, Downtown Disney West Side, locals, meet-ups, Orlando nightlife, splitsville, Splitsville Downtown Disney, Splitsville Orlando, Walt Disney, Walt Disney World, west side

Disney LeSportsac Winter 2012 London Collection

27 November 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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LeSportsac’s collaboration with Disney, using Mary Blair-inspired designs under the “it’s a small world” moniker, is quickly gaining popularity just like the Disney Dooney & Bourke collection has done for the past few years. With the success of the initial summer Disney LeSportsac line, the Fall and Winter line started appearing in Disney parks as well as being available for purchase online.

I was recently in TrenD at Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney Marketplace, and saw many of the new Winter London collection for sale:

 

Disney LeSportsac Winter 2012 London
Everyday bag with charm – $98

 

Disney LeSportsac Winter 2012 London
Kasey letter carrier with charm – $48

 

Disney LeSportsac Winter 2012 London
Mini Basic Backpack with charm – $78

 

Disney LeSportsac Winter 2012 London
Picture Tote in the “Time to Share” pattern with charm – $148

 

Keep an eye out for more of these cute designs showing up at a Disney park near you!

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Filed Under: Disney Merchandise, Top Stories, Walt Disney World Tagged With: backpack, collaboration, cute designs, Disney LeSportsac, disney park, Disney parks, Disney purses, Downtown Disney, Downtown Disney Marketplace, Fancy That, handbags, It's a Small World, lesportsac, LeSportsac Disney Small World Collection, letter carrier, London 2012 collection, london collection, Mary Blair, original art, purses, Small World, Walt Disney, Walt Disney World, winter line

20th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon Disney Dooney and Bourke Bags

20 November 2012 by Suzannah Otis 6 Comments

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WDW Marathon Dooney & Bourke Bags Keeping up with the tradition of limited edition Disney Dooney and Bourke handbag designs for the Run Disney half marathon races, Disney has come out with a new design for the 20th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Marathon.

A blue bag with various Mickey Mouse silhouettes in different designs, this bag is less about racing icons and more about the Big Cheese himself. There is one version of Mickey in a running pose, which is what sets this design apart from previous Mickey designs. There will also be a special WDW Marathon hang tag as was on the previous RunDisney Dooney & Bourke limited edition bags. limThe pricing for the bags are: $280.00 for the Dooney & Bourke Satchel Purse and $200.00 for the Dooney & Bourke Letter Carrier Purse. The prices include tax and a non-refundable processing fee.

This time around Disney has gotten smart and set up the bags for pre-purchase at their active.com race registration site. There is a maximum 2 bag purchase per registration. Hopefully these new stipulations will ensure less eBay poachers and more fans of the bags themselves.

If you’re ready to run and grab your bags, click here to order.

 

Walt Disney World 20th Anniversary Marathon Dooney & Bourke Bags

 

 

Don’t forget to check DisneyStore.com for sales of select current released Disney Dooney & Bourke purses and Zannaland’s Disney Dooney & Bourke page with ALL handbag photos and info.

*DisneyStore.com links are affiliate links, which means it costs you nothing extra to click or buy, but if you do, I get a small commission. Thanks for reading!

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Filed Under: Disney Merchandise, Disney Special Events, RunDisney, Top Stories Tagged With: 2013 Walt Disney World Marathon, 2013 WDW Marathon, 20th anniversary, designer bags, designer handbags, designer purses, Disney, Disney Dooney, Disney Dooney & Bourke, Disney Dooney and Bourke, Disney marathon, Disney marathon Dooney & Bourke bags, Disney Merchandise, Disney parks, Dooney & Bourke, Dooney and Bourke, Dooney marathon purse, exclusive Dooney and Bourke, half marathon, handbags, letter carrier, Limited Edition, limited edition Disney Dooney & Bourke, limited edition merchandise, marathon logo, marathon weekend, purses, runDisney, runners, Walt Disney, Walt Disney World, Walt Disney World marathon, WDW Marathon

Behind the Scenes: Wilderness Lodge Christmas Comes to Life Overnight

13 November 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation Last evening I stumbled upon the serendipitous event of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Christmas tree installation. I have never, in all of my years of visiting Walt Disney World, ever seen resort holiday decorations being put up, so it was fun to sit back and watch this spectacle. Of course, it’s easy to assume these overnight transformations happen by magic and pixie dust alone, but as I learned last night, it’s actually a huge, multi-cast member operation full of semi-trucks, cranes, ladders and patience!

Below is a slideshow of last night’s events, which continued into the wee hours of the morning. The whole operation began a little after 11pm and I stayed to witness it through 2am, when there was still quite a bit left to assemble on the tree, but so much had already been pixie dusted too. Enjoy the photos of the process!

 

Click any photo to view as a slideshow:

Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree
I couldn’t stay until they were done, but here’s a gorgeous photo of the finished lobby from the talented Tom Bricker.
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
The tree is raised up to get more branches installed
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
The Bear family is back in place, waiting to be lit up
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Some deer await their new home
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Another view of the tree being installed
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
More decorations waiting to get installed
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
More sections of the tree stand are installed
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Ready to be raised higher
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
The lights in one section are briefly turned on
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Assessing the situation
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Raising the tree
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
THEY use antlers in all of their decorating too!
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
The first parts of the tree are installed
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
More installation preparation
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
The crane goes up almost to the ceiling
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Garland installed on every other floor
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
The wreath on the fireplace installed
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
A crane is brought in to hang a chain from the ceiling to support the tree
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
A large wreath is installed over the lobby fireplace
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Unwrapping tree parts
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Close-up of the tee pee ornaments
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
More tree parts – look, the famous tee pees!
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
A wreath awaits installation
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Smaller trees are brought in and the floor is protected for the cranes to come in
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Wreaths are brought up to higher floors too
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Boxes of wreaths and tree limbs arrive in the lobby
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
The “before” – setting the stage for the Christmas tree installation
Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree Installation
Outside wreaths are installed

 

More photos like the last one may be found at Tom Bricker’s site DisneyTouristBlog or on his Flickr account.

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Filed Under: Disney Holidays, Disney Resorts, Top Stories, Walt Disney World Tagged With: behind the scenes, Christmas, Christmas decorations, christmas tree, Disney, Disney Christmas decorations, Disney holiday, Disney holiday resort decor, Disney hotel decorations, holiday decorations, photos, Walt Disney, Walt Disney World, Wilderness Lodge, Wilderness Lodge Christmas tree, Wilderness Lodge Christmas tree installation, Wilderness Lodge tree

Production Begins on Saving Mr. Banks-Story of Walt Disney Making Mary Poppins

20 September 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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Walt-Disney-P.L.-Travers
Walt Disney with P.L. Travers and some little friends

When I first heard rumors of a film being made based on the arduous twenty-year attempt of Walt Disney to obtain the film rights and subsequently produce the Mary Poppins story, I didn’t want to get my hopes up. It is a well-known bit of history that author P.L. Travers was not too keen on signing over her rights, and quite picky about filming and production. Now that this rumor is a reality, I am beyond excited and thrilled!

While I have always had an extreme interest in all things Disney, it’s really only been since I was an adult, and really the past few years, that I developed a love of anything Disney history-related. After attending several Disney D23 fan events and hearing original Imagineers and animators speak, I have longed for a behind-the-scenes story of the Walt Disney Company’s early history and the personalities that made it what it was.

I will still hope for that Walt Disney bio pic, but understand with the restraints on the company today, we may never get an accurate film with all the juicy details Disney nerds live for. The next best thing would be a film covering a certain aspect of company history, and Saving Mr. Banks seems to fit that bill. Tom Hanks will be a perfect Walt Disney and I cannot wait to see how he does Uncle Walt justice. The film is shooting in Los Angeles and at the actual locations of much of the original history, which also makes me ridiculously excited.

Here is the official press release detailing the production and those behind it:

Two-time Academy Award®-winner Tom Hanks (“Philadelphia,” “Forrest Gump”) will essay the role of the legendary Disney (the first time the entrepreneur has ever been depicted in a dramatic film) alongside fellow double Oscar®-winner Emma Thompson (“Howard’s End,” “Sense and Sensibility”) in the role of the prickly novelist.  Before actually signing away the book’s rights, Travers’ demands for contractual script and character control circumvent not only Disney’s vision for the film adaptation, but also those of the creative team of screenwriter Don DaGradi and sibling composers Richard and Robert Sherman, whose original score and song (Chim-Chim-Cher-ee) would go on to win Oscars® at the 1965 ceremonies (the film won five awards of its thirteen nominations).

          When Travers travels from London to Hollywood in 1961 to finally discuss Disney’s desire to bring her beloved character to the motion picture screen (a quest he began in the 1940s as a promise to his two daughters), Disney meets a prim, uncompromising sexagenarian not only suspect of the impresario’s concept for the film, but a woman struggling with her own past.  During her stay in California, Travers’ reflects back on her childhood in 1906 Australia, a trying time for her family which not only molded her aspirations to write, but one that also inspired the characters in her 1934 book.

            None more so than the one person whom she loved and admired more than any other—her caring father, Travers Goff, a tormented banker who, before his untimely death that same year, instills the youngster with both affection and enlightenment (and would be the muse for the story’s patriarch, Mr. Banks, the sole character that the famous nanny comes to aide).  While reluctant to grant Disney the film rights, Travers comes to realize that the acclaimed Hollywood storyteller has his own motives for wanting to make the film—which, like the author, hints at the relationship he shared with his own father in the early 20th Century Midwest.

walt-disney-pl-travers
Julie Andrews, Walt Disney and P.L. Travers

            Colin Farrell (“Minority Report,” “Total Recall”) co-stars as Travers’ doting dad, Goff, along with British actress Ruth Wilson (the forthcoming films “The Lone Ranger” and “Anna Karenina”) as his long-suffering wife, Margaret; Oscar® and Emmy® nominee Rachel Griffiths (“Six Feet Under,” “Hilary and Jackie,” “The Rookie”) as Margaret’s sister, Aunt Ellie (who inspired the title character of Travers’ novel); and a screen newcomer—11-year-old Aussie native Annie Buckley as the young, blossoming writer, nicknamed “Ginty” in the flashback sequences.

            The cast also includes Emmy® winner Bradley Whitford (“The West Wing,” “The Cabin in the Woods”) as screenwriter Don DaGradi; Jason Schwartzman (“Rushmore,” “Moonrise Kingdom”) and B.J. Novak (“NBC’s “The Office,” “Inglourious Basterds”) as the songwriting Sherman Brothers (Richard and Robert, respectively); Oscar® nominee and Emmy winner Paul Giamatti (“Sideways,” “Cinderella Man,” HBO’s “John Adams”) as Ralph, the kindly limousine driver who escorts Travers during her two-week stay in Hollywood; and multi-Emmy winner Kathy Baker (“Picket Fences,” “Edward Scissorhands”) as Tommie, one of Disney’s trusted studio associates.

            “Saving Mr. Banks” will be directed by John Lee Hancock (“The Blind Side,” “The Rookie”) based on a screenplay by Kelly Marcel (creator of FOX-TV’s “Terra Nova”), from a story by Sue Smith (“Brides of Christ,” “Bastard Boys”) and Kelly Marcel.  The film is being produced by Alison Owen of Ruby Films (the Oscar®-nominated “Elizabeth,” HBO’s Emmy®-winning “Temple Grandin”), Ian Collie of Essential Media (the Aussie TV documentary “The Shadow of Mary Poppins,” DirecTV’s “Rake”) and longtime Hancock collaborator Philip Steuer (“The Rookie,” “The Chronicles of Narnia” trilogy).  The film’s executive producers are Ruby Films’ Paul Trijbits (“Lay the Favorite,” “Jane Eyre”), Hopscotch Features’ Andrew Mason (“The Matrix” trilogy, “Dark City”) and Troy Lum (“Mao’s Last Dancer,” “I, Frankenstein”) and BBC Films’ Christine Langan (Oscar® nominee for “The Queen,” “We Need to Talk About Kevin”).

            Hancock’s filmmaking team includes a trio of artists with whom he worked on his 2009 Best Picture Oscar® nominee, “The Blind Side”—two-time Oscar® nominated production designer Michael Corenblith (“How The Grinch Stole Christmas,” “Apollo 13”), Emmy®-winning costume designer Daniel Orlandi (HBO’s “Game Change,” “Frost/Nixon”) and film editor Mark Livolsi, A.C.E. (“Wedding Crashers” “The Devil Wears Prada”).  Hancock also reunites with Academy Award®-nominated cinematographer John Schwartzman (“Seabiscuit,” “Pearl Harbor”), with whom he first worked on his inspiring 2002 sports drama, “The Rookie.”

            “Saving Mr. Banks” will film entirely in the Los Angeles area, with key locations to include Disneyland in Anaheim and the Disney Studios in Burbank.  Filming will conclude around Thanksgiving, 2012, with no specific 2013 release date yet set.

What do you think of Saving Mr. Banks? Will you be first in line with a spoonful of sugar when it’s released?

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Filed Under: Disney News, Official Disney Tagged With: Disney history, emma thompson, Mary Poppins production film, mr banks, p l travers, Saving Mr. Banks, tom hanks, Tom Hanks as Walt Disney, Walt Disney, walt disney company

Sneak Peek: LeSportsac New FALL Small World Designs

21 July 2012 by Suzannah Otis 1 Comment

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We mentioned in the last LeSportsac post featuring the “it’s a small world” line of bags and accessories inspired by Mary Blair, that there would be seasonal designs coming out throughout the year. LeSportsac has just released the first image of its Fall 2012 line for the Small World designs. They are theming these styles to a “Wondrous Journey under the Moroccan Sun”. Let’s see the sneak peek below:

LeSportsac Fall Small World line
Can’t wait to see more of the Fall line! (click to enlarge – ©LeSportsac)

 

For now, you can order LeSportsac Small World designs online at LeSportsac.com/smallworld but I am hearing they are in Disney Parks as well, so I will keep you posted. The Fall 2012 line will be released in August.

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Filed Under: Disney Merchandise Tagged With: accessories, disney consumer products, Disney LeSportsac, Disney purses, handbags, It's a Small World, lesportsac, lesportsac disney fall collection, LeSportsac Disney Small World Collection, Mary Blair, original art, purses, Small World, travel bags, vibrant prints, Walt Disney

Mary Blair Inspired Disney Small World LeSportsac Purses

25 June 2012 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

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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.

Mary Blair Le Sportsac Small World

“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.

Mary Blair Le Sportsac Small World Tahitian Dreams

“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.”

Mary Blair Le Sportsac Small 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.

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Filed Under: Disney Merchandise, Disney News, Official Disney Tagged With: accessories, disney consumer products, Disney LeSportsac, Disney purses, handbags, It's a Small World, lesportsac, LeSportsac Disney Small World Collection, Magical Journey design, Mary Blair, mermaid, mermaid charm, original art, purses, Small World, tahitian design, Tahitian Dreams design, travel bags, vibrant prints, Walt Disney

What is #DisneySMMoms? Disney’s Social Media Moms Celebration!

13 April 2012 by Suzannah Otis 8 Comments

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Disney's Social Media Moms Celebration From the first moment I discovered a little thing called “social media” I realized that the Disney online community was a powerful and devoted force. Disney knows this too, and Walt Disney World has had a team in place for many years now, inviting bloggers to experience the World and share those experiences with their readers. Of course the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (which now includes Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Line, RunDisney, and Disneyland) was perhaps the company’s first real visible foray into the worlds of social media and it has only grown from there. Even before I was selected as a member of the 2010 and 2011 Moms Panel, I was witnessing tweets from mom bloggers being hosted by Disney, organized by charter moms panelist and public relations maven, Laura Spencer and the Social Media/Public Relations team. I thought it was such a great idea to have bloggers of all types – mom bloggers, food bloggers, latina bloggers, bloggers of color, even Disney bloggers, see the Walt Disney World Resort first hand, and in turn spread that knowledge to readers everywhere. I know as a Disney/theme park/travel blogger, I have a certain readership that may expect Disney news or updates. However, for those who typically blog about day to day parenting topics, write reviews, or have another niche altogether, Disney knowledge may not be as widespread.

With the success of other blogging conferences, Disney decided to throw their mouse ears in the ring and hold their own pixie-dusted blogging conference. First held in 2010, the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration has been a coveted conference from the start. Abbreviated on twitter with the hashtag #DisneySMMoms, each year has offered attendees and their families an amazing opportunity to experience the Walt Disney World Resort at deeply discounted prices, enjoy a Deluxe Resort hotel, Disney park tickets, Disney dining and special tours. All while hosting some incredibly inspiring and informative speakers for the blogging crowd. Along with the process of connecting with other bloggers and receiving valuable tips on business, writing, and promoting yourself and your site, attendees are also given something Disney is most famous for – memories to last a lifetime.

Disney Social Media Moms Celebration Platinum Soiree Candy Bar In the past, attendees have gotten to see the Muppets, experience gourmet food and healthy kids alternatives, experience the special tours and events the Walt Disney World Resort has to offer, and hear famous personalities from Guy Kawasaki and Maxine Clark to Chris Brogan, Renee Sylar and David Tutera, share their business and personal successes. This year, we will again hear inspiring stories, but a lot of the focus also seems to be on the resort itself, with optional breakout sessions including meeting author Ridley Pearson, the amazing Wild Africa Trek, meeting with some of the amazing teams behind the Disney Parks blog and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, and a behind the scenes tour of the all new Fantasyland expansion. The difference this year is that attendees were given these choices, so we will all be experiencing something different. For those following along the tweets, facebook and blog updates from attendees, you will now be reading completely unique updates. It certainly gives you a reason to check out the other bloggers and see what they are doing and sharing.

With that said, and with the 2012 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration less than two weeks away, I thought it would be a great opportunity to link up the bloggers who will be in attendance so we can all get to know them better. And before you think it’s JUST MOMS that will be there – guess again. There have been dads and non-parent bloggers each year. Truly, something for everyone – just like Disney!

Edit: The 2013 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration will be held from May 9-12 at the Walt Disney World Resort. I will not be attending this year, but feel free to submit your blog info in the comments below if you’d like to add yourself to the list. 🙂

I’m asking Disney Social Media Moms attendees to submit their blog links below and for all of us to check them out and be sure to follow along April 26-29 May 9-12 as they embark on their magical blogging conference! Thank you to Disney, especially Laura Spencer and Leanne Jakubowski and their teams for tirelessly organizing these events each year!

(check back to these links below as more attendees add their info!)

Disclosure:  many thanks to Disney’s Social Media Team for inviting me to register for the 2012 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration.  All opinions are, as always, my own. I have not been compensated or asked to post about Disney (I just can’t help myself!)

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Filed Under: Disney Special Events, Walt Disney World Tagged With: #DisneySMMoms, 2013 Disney Social Media Moms, blog conference, Blogging, blogging conference, Chris Brogan, deluxe resort, Disney Cruise Line, Disney News, Disney parks, Disney Social Media Moms, Disney Social Media Moms attendees, Disney Social Media Moms Celebration, Fantasyland Expansion, Gary Buchanan, hardhat tour, Laura Spencer, Leanne Jakubowski, linky, mom bloggers, New Fantasyland, parent bloggers, Ridley Pearson, Social Media Moms, Thomas Smith, Walt Disney, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Walt Disney World, walt disney world resort

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