Disneyland Dapper Day Spring 2016 Review

I can't believe it's been three weeks since Disneyland's Dapper Day!  Oh my gosh, it was so much fun.  I'm still slightly stunned that I was able to attend!  Timing could not have been more perfect.  While the parks were very busy, I had an amazing time.  I would definitely go again if the opportunity presents itself!  (And I really hope it does; I'd love to go with Eliot!)  Here's a recap of my Dapper Day experience:

I was really excited about my Dapper Day outfit.  I'd planned it out so I would be Disneybounding as Diamond Celebration Minnie Mouse!  I didn't have many goals of the day.  I really just wanted to get a picture by the Partners Statue with Sleeping Beauty Castle, and pictures with a few of the Diamond Celebration characters.

When I left the Disneyland Hotel, I felt like I was quite possibly the only person dressed up, even though I knew that wasn't the case.  I got a few looks while other guests dressed more like tourists walked by me.  I just strutted my stuff and held my head high.  Thankfully, I started to see increasing amounts of dapperly dressed guests the closer I got to the park.  As I entered Disneyland, the lady who scanned my ticket wished me a happy Dapper Day.  Then, the real experience began!

I saw people in all sorts of different Dapper Day styles.  I was amazed at how many people dressed up and at how committed they were to their looks.  I quickly discovered that Dapper Day is all about the photos.  People were posing for photos everywhere I could see.  The lines for the characters and key locations were pretty full, but I stuck to my guns and went with my plan.  The character lines were closed, so I asked a cast member when Mickey and Minnie would be back, and discovered that they wouldn't be back until after noon.  I had over an hour and a half to kill.

I decided to browse through the Emporium.  I hadn't spent much time shopping during the trip, and I wanted to scope out the merchandise for our June trip. After browsing in the Emporium, I made my way to the castle to get my photo with the Partners Statue.

While in line, I met a few other Dapper Day attendees.  The group in front of me was Disneybounding as Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Ariel and Cinderella, and they all looked awesome!  So many people stopped to ask them for a photo.

Photo Credit

In fact, while I was standing there, Joey, aka @JustBeingJoey on Instagram, asked me to take a Snapchat photo of him with them.  He gave them all some of his custom buttons afterwards.  Then, he even asked me and the couple behind me if we'd like some!  I was so excited!  I'd seen the preview of his buttons on Instagram and I'm super pumped to add one to my button collection!

While waiting, I also spotted @TeamSparkle from Instagram.  She was actually a few groups ahead of me in line at the Partners Statue.  It's so weird to see people you recognize from online in real life.  I should have said hello, but I didn't want to leave my spot in line.  (I have to admit that it is a little awkward to just go say hello.  Even though I encourage you guys to do the same thing with me!  Ha!)

I talked with the couple behind me for a few minutes.  I wish I'd asked for their names, or at least their Instagram names.  I've looked all over Instagram and I haven't found them... yet!  They were very sweet and they even asked to take a picture with me and the Disneybounding group ahead of me in line.  It was really sweet of them to include me and I'm hoping that one day I'll come across the photo!

Before I knew it, I was next in line to get my picture taken.  The photographer was taking her time to make sure to capture many different views.  I was really appreciative of that since we all waited.  Everyone got a few minutes of her time!  She took a few photos on my phone- I wanted something to post on Instagram and Facebook!  Then, she took a few with the PhotoPass camera.  She got me with the statue and Sleeping Beauty Castle.  She also took a Tinker Bell magic shot for me!

Then, I sat on a bench to rest my feet and just soaked everything in.  I talked to a nice mother while she helped her daughter put bandages on her feet- the struggles of fancy shoes on Dapper Day.  I asked a cast member when and where Mickey's March Along came from.  Then, I'd be able to prepare for my Mickey and Minnie photos!

Around noon, Mickey and Minnie marched down Main Street with the marching band and their other Diamond Celebration character friends.  I followed the crowd and was simply stunned by what was on the other end of Main Street.  The marching band played "Live the Magic" while the Dapper Dans sang and the characters all danced around.  It was the most surreal part of Dapper Day for me.  Being dressed up as Minnie, with the song playing... it was a little bit overwhelming.

After the show, the characters took a break before starting photos.  They all came out and I stayed waiting for Minnie.  Finally, a cast member told me she'd be out after the next break.  So I went over to Mickey's line and thankfully, I was one of the last people allowed in line!  Good timing once again!

Mickey loved my outfit.  I told him I was dressed as Minnie, but I think he already knew judging from his reaction.  I got a few more photos on my phone and their camera, thanked him and gave him a big hug.

Then, it was time for my main focus: Minnie.  As promised, she was out after the next break.  I literally followed a few steps behind her after she came out.  I was near the front of the line, and ironically I don't think many people in line realized the significance of my outfit.  However, when it was my turn, that changed in an instant.  The next thing I knew, I had tons of strangers pointing me out and taking photos of me with Minnie!

Minnie Mouse loved my outfit.  I could tell from the second I stepped up to her.  She jumped up and down and pointed at me and her.  I told her she was a fashion icon and I had to dress like her for Dapper Day.  We took a few photos with my phone and the camera.  Then, I thanked her and gave her one more hug.

After that, you couldn't wipe the grin off my face if you'd tried.  I'd had a successful Dapper Day in the parks, but I decided it wouldn't be complete without visiting the Dapper Day Expo.  I made my way back to the Disneyland Hotel and the expo.  There was so much to see, and I definitely didn't do it justice.

I walked around looking at the different booths.  There were beautiful retro dresses, skirts, brooches, and accessories everywhere.  There was a vintage car.  You could get a shave, or your hair styled, or try on clothes.  There was music playing.  If I went again, I would definitely spend more time in the expo exploring, but since there was nothing that I absolutely needed, I decided it was time to head back to my room.

Overall, Disneyland's Spring 2016 Dapper Day was an amazing experience.  I really wish Eliot had been there though.  It was a little bit lonely going by myself, but I still had fun.  I'm so glad I took all of those photos.  They were worth every penny, staying an extra day at Disneyland by myself, and waiting in the lines.  I hope someday I'll get to go to another Disneyland Dapper Day.  It's definitely on my bucket list!  °o°

Fun Find: Disneyland 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration

Hey guys!  It's been another busy week around here.  We've been getting pummeled by snow up here in the Northeast.  We had another storm today and more snow is on the way next week!  (Alright... who upset Elsa this time?)  It's been a good week to cozy up inside and to surf the internet!  Thus, I have another fun find for you- the big announcement for Disneyland's 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration!

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

This year Disneyland is pulling out all of the stops for it's diamond anniversary.  You could actually follow along via their Twitter account Wednesday night to hear about the new experiences that will start May 22nd!  However, if you weren't able to follow along, fear not, I've gathered up some photos to share with you!

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

The first thing that stuck me was the renderings of the decorations on Sleeping Beauty Castle and Carthay Circle.  I'm a sucker for renderings and I'm pretty excited about what I see!  Both buildings will be encased in diamond decor and festive banners in blue.  This will surely be a sight to see!

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

Along with decorations around both parks, Disneyland will also be adding a few new shows to celebrate their diamond anniversary.  Starting May 22nd, World of Color will have a special edition called "World of Color- Celebrate!  The Wonderful World of Walt Disney."  Mickey Mouse hosts the show and it will feature Walt's dream of creating Disneyland.  I'm sure that this will not not be beautiful, but a powerful and emotional experience for Disney fans.

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

Another new addition to the celebration is the new "Paint the Night" parade.  The parade will feature innovative floats, special effects, new music and over 1.5 billion LED lights!  Disney fans will get to see familiar characters from The Little Mermaid, Cars, Monsters Inc, Toy Story, Beauty and the Beast, Frozen and more!  I am so excited for this!  I've been wanting to see a new nighttime parade ever since Walt Disney World retired the SpectroMagic parade!

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

I've saved the best new entertainment for last- the "Disneyland Forever" fireworks display.  They've definitely done it again with this piece of perfection that only Disney could create.  "Disneyland Forever" not only features fireworks, but it will transform Sleeping Beauty Castle, Main Street, the Matterhorn and other locations into a canvas. Through projection mapping, guests will literally be immersed in their favorite Disney movies.  (This is the largest projection mapping installation in a Disney park thus far.  I hope that means more is to come in the future!!!  Projection mapping is my hero.)

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

"Disneyland Forever" also features two new original songs: "Live the Magic" and "Kiss Goodnight" which was written by Richard Sherman.  I watched a media video from the event that featured a snippet of the show with "I See The Light" from Tangled and I was already tearing up.  This show is sure to be spectacular!

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

Finally, you can't have a Disney anniversary celebration without merchandise to commemorate the occasion!  Disneyland is going to have over 500 new items from a few new collections to celebrate it's 60th anniversary.  The first collection is the "Character" collection which will feature our favorite Disney characters and the iconic Disneyland attractions.  The coolest part of this design is that each of the four "sections" of the design feature a 15 year timespan in the parks history.  (You'll note that it starts out in black and white and moves to bright vivid colors.  Cool!!!)

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

Next is the "Castle" collection which will include the silvers and blues the park will be decorated with for the celebration.  Of course, Mickey and Minnie are in the design!  I love blue and silver together and I can't wait to see what this collection looks like!

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

Last, the "Diamond" collection is a stunning nod to the 60th anniversary.  The design of these products will feature simple black, gray and silver tones.  I love how Sleeping Beauty Castle is encased in the diamond design.

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

Disneyland has also released a few new designs as a preview of their anniversary merchandise.  These pins will be released each month from January to July.

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

I've saved my personal favorite for last... the Mickey balloon popcorn bucket!  I haven't ever collected popcorn buckets, but I think this is a must have!  It comes in red, purple and blue, and they would look lovely on top of my desk!  I've always wanted an actual Mickey balloon.  Now I can have one that will never deflate!

Photo Source: Disney Parks Blog

Finally, here's a quick video to recap the big Diamond Anniversary announcement!

And there you have it!  Disneyland's 60th Anniversary Diamond Celebration looks like it's going to be absolutely amazing.  (I can already picture myself as a sobbing mess of emotions.)  I wasn't planning on going back to Disneyland until May of 2016 for the Tinker Bell race weekend, but I really have to see those new shows and there isn't a date for when the anniversary celebration ends.  Eliot and I are already looking into a few possibilities for a visit... stay tuned!!!  °o°

Fun Find: Gingerbread Wonderland

Hi friends!  It's time for another fun find!  Last year, I came across a website for Disney's Gingerbread Wonderland.  The display, created out of gingerbread, modeling chocolate and icing, was on display over at Epcot during the holiday season of 2013.  I was excited to discover that the website with the photos is still active!

Photo Source: Disney's Gingerbread Wonderland

The masterpiece consisted of gingerbread models showcasing all of Disney's different travel experiences: Walt Disney World Resort featured Cinderella Castle, Disneyland Resort featured Sleeping Beauty Castle, the Disney Cruise Line featured the Magic, Aulani Resort & Spa in Hawaii was included and finally Adventures by Disney featured the Great Wall of China, the Eiffel Tower and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Photo Source: Disney's Gingerbread Wonderland

On the website, you can get a closer look at the models.  You can do a 180 view of each design as well as look at detailed photos.  You are also able to watch videos about the making of Gingerbread Wonderland.  I love watching the design come to life! It reminds be of making models in my interior design classes during college.  The time lapse video shows you how they put the design together with the gingerbread "houses" and the scenery.  It's incredible to see the end result!  It took 15 pastry chefs six months of work to complete the display!  The coolest part is that everything is edible!

Photo Source: Disney's Gingerbread Wonderland

Another great feature is where you can make your own gingerbread castle picture frame!  (There's a link of the bottom right side of the page.)  Or you can click here to download the directions to build your own gingerbread castle frame!  Yum!  °o°

The Many Adventures of Eeyore

Well, this week has been an interesting one.  Mr. My Disney Life has been having a lot of pain in his teeth and we found out today that he needs to have a root canal early next week. He stayed home from work today after he got back from the doctor's office. Now that he's got some antibiotics in him, he's finally sleeping peacefully after a sleepless night.

You'll notice that he's curled up on the bed with a furry friend.  You might not be able to tell from this angle, but that's Eeyore.  Eeyore has been a friend of Eliot's for a long time, as long as I've known him anyways.  Everyone has a teddy bear or stuffed animal that's special to them right?  Well, Eliot's friend is Eeyore.  And Eeyore goes everywhere with us.  He's basically like a mascot.

Now, I know what you're thinking.  Some of you might think that it's weird to still have a plush that you bring around with you when you're an adult.  I have my own plush dog named Corky.  He's one of those larger Ty beanie plush.  I stopped bringing stuffed animals with me probably in middle school. (You know, when you're "too cool" for that stuff.) Then high school happened.  My sophomore year, three girls in our high school died in car accidents.  It was the first time that I ever had to deal with some thing like that, and I couldn't sleep for awhile.  So after many restless nights, I started to curl up with Corky next to me, and after a few weeks, it got easier.  I guess now I'm superstitious, because Corky travels everywhere with me.  He's been to Disney World, Disneyland, France, Italy, Greece, Las Vegas.  He's a well traveled plush.  He usually hangs out in my suitcase, but he's still there.  And when we're home, he hangs out on the dresser near our bed.  I don't sleep with him anymore, but having him nearby makes me feel better.  (Plus, I'm half convinced that the world might just end if I forget him...)

This is Corky in my Harry Potter tie while in Las Vegas in 2006.

Anyways... now that you know the backstory, I can tell you the real reason for this post!  As most of you know, Eliot went to California at the beginning of September to visit his family. Of course, while he was there, they went to Disneyland.  Eliot brought Eeyore with him, so he and his sister Elissa decided to bring Eeyore to Disneyland.  They took some photos of him and it looks like he had a good time.  In fact, now the plush donkey has seen more of Disneyland than I have!  Ha!

I promised Elissa that I would document Eeyore's travels through Disneyland, California Adventure and Sea World.  And we're decided to dub it the Many Adventures of Eeyore. So here we go!

Photo credit: Eliot Cady

Eliot sent me a text during his layover that I posted on my blog's Facebook page. During his first flight, the plane was basically empty so Eeyore had his own seat!

Once they got to California, Eeyore had to prepare for a day of theme park fun, so he borrowed Elissa's sunglasses since the sun was so bright!

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Eeyore had a picture taken right outside the entrance since it was his first time there.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Of course, the trip wouldn't be complete without a photo with Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Eeyore also got to try his first Mickey Mouse pretzel.  Everything tastes better when it's Mickey shaped!

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Eeyore also got front row seats to watch Mickey's Soundsational Parade.  (It's kind of funny to see the parade from his point of view.  All of the floats look so big!  I makes me wonder if that's how the parades looked to me when I was a kid!)

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Speaking of shows, Eeyore also got to see Mickey and the Magical Map!  I'm super jealous!

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

No day at the theme park is complete without the rides!  Eeyore got to go on a bunch of them.  Here he is enjoying a few of them.  He went on: Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Tarzan's Treehouse, where the leopard tried to eat him!

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

I think the ride Eeyore really wanted to go on was The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. He also got his picture taken with a few of the characters afterwards.  Big Eeyore wasn't taking pictures that day, but he did get some with Tigger.  

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

A few of the ride and character pictures are on the PhotoPass and Elissa doesn't have them yet.  But I've been told that Eeyore also went on Splash Mountain, Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean.

To ride around between Disneyland and Downtown Disney, Eeyore got to go on the Monorail.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Finally, after a busy day, Eeyore watched Fantasmic!

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Eeyore also got to enjoy a second day of Disney fun at California Adventure.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

He went on Mickey's Fun Wheel down at Paradise Pier.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

He was in a few photos with Eliot and Elissa while waiting for the Pixar Play Parade.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

He got to check out Cars Land and the Radiator Springs Racers ride... although I'm not quite sure if he technically reached the height requirement!  Ha ha. 

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Finally, Eeyore ended the second day with World of Color. 

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

The last day, Eeyore got to enjoy Sea World.  And although it's not a Disney park, I had to share the pictures because they're pretty cute.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Eeyore got to watch the whale, dolphin and sea lion shows at Sea World.  He made sure to stay away from the splash zone.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

He also got to watch and then take a picture with the Beluga whales.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

Before Eliot and Eeyore had to fly back home, they went to the movie theater to see Planes.

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

It looks like Eeyore had quite the adventure!  I haven't seen Cars Land, the new California Adventure park entrance, Mickey's Soundsational Parade, Mickey and the Magical Map or the World of Color!  Eeyore's a better Disney fan that I am in the Disneyland category!

On another note, this is a fun way to document a trip if you're looking to do something completely different on your next vacation.  And it's not as crazy as it sounds. At one of my past jobs, we had a small gnome figure that everyone took on their vacations so the office has pictures of him all over the world.  (I took him with me to Italy and Greece too.)

Photo credit: Elissa Cady

If you don't want to bring a plush, you could do it with a small figure, a beanie baby, or even a popsicle stick.  (Remember Stick Stickly from Nickelodeon?)  It's just a fun way to get different pictures at the park.  It might even be a great way to get your kids willing to take more photos if they're not big fans of it!  Or you could make it into a game or fun scavenger hunt!  °o°

Note: No plush donkeys were harmed in the making of this blog post.

Another Note: Eeyore was throughly sprayed in Lysol upon his return to our house after sitting on every possible surface at the parks.  He now smells citrus fresh.