Here in Orlando, we feel that if your partner loves you even just a little more than Mickey Mouse, you must be doing something right! Go ahead and lock it down with a storybook-worthy proposal she (or he) is sure to love. While Walt Disney World® Resort does offer private packages for your special moment, if you’re thinking of something a little less…expensive…here’s how you guarantee the magic:
1) Figure out her favorite park — and her favorite area of that park.
This may sound easy, but many true Disney fans have several favorites. Is it Mainstreet USA at the Magic Kingdom®? One of the exotic locales of Epcot™? Is she dazzled by the fireworks, obsessed with Splash Mountain, or dying to meet her favorite character one-on-one? It’s probably best to ask her outright — just try not to be too obvious about why you’re suddenly so interested.
2) Scout out the location in advance.
Luckily for you, even if she has several spots she loves — and you’re able to figure them all out — chances are, only one or two will be ideal for those amazing engagement-moment photos. If possible, try to visit at least once alone before your big day with the purpose of figuring out the precise spot you’ll get on your knee. (Remember, when in doubt, the Cinderella Castle always makes a beautiful backdrop!)
3) Book your photographer ASAP.
We cannot over-emphasize how important it is to carefully select your engagement photographer. Yes, it’s convenient to have your BFF snap a few cell phone shots before jumping out from behind a Mickey-shaped shrub, but we strongly advise you hire a professional. Orlando is full of creatives, many of whom are very familiar with the layout, lighting and crowds specific to Walt Disney World®. A little research goes a long way — start with a Google search, but don’t rule out browsing Disney wedding hashtags on Instagram and working backwards.
4) Be smart about inviting others to participate in your engagement.
Does your sweetheart want a big, dramatic proposal surrounded by all the people she loves most in the world? Then you have an interesting dilemma — you’ll need to give family and friends enough warning so that they can plan and budget, but not enough time to accidentally spill the beans to your future spouse. Be strategic! Try waiting until after any upcoming group gatherings to present the idea to a single person who can coordinate with everyone else.
5) Book your vacation home accommodations for the afterparty!
After a long day celebrating at “The Happiest Place on Earth”, you’re all going to need somewhere to crash. Don’t bother with a block of hotel rooms that everyone may not even book; consider a whole-home rental at Encore Resort at Reunion! Only 5 miles from Walt Disney World®, we offer beautiful houses with private rooms, backyard pools, in-unit washer/dryer units, and fully equipped kitchens, plus resort-style amenities like an Aqua Park and free shuttle. Learn More.
Once you’ve popped the question, it’s time for both of your fairytale wedding dreams to come true. Check out Disney’s starter tips for planning your Walt Disney World® wedding!
