Six weeks to go until my work’s holiday shutdown, and I can’t wait! I think most (if not all) of us are ready for a break and a little cheer this year. If you’re one to sprinkle in some Disneyland magic with your holiday shopping, I’ve gathered some of my favorite items this season that […] Read more…
While Walt Disney Imagineering has always been known for its innovation, much of the spotlight historically focused on male leaders. That is, until now. Let’s take a closer look at a book dedicated to twelve of the women who helped shape the world’s most iconic theme parks. PREMISE Women of Walt Disney Imagineering showcases the […] Read more…
One of Disneyland’s longest running souvenirs are the pressed pennies available at stations throughout the resort. But over the years, several readers have asked me, “what do I do with those if I get them?” So I thought I’d share some ideas I’ve seen on Pinterest, Instagram, or even directly from crafting time with friends, […] Read more…
If you’ve ever been curious about how storytelling and technology come together to create a Disney ride, David Mumpower has written the book for you. This book dives deep into the challenges, creativity, and innovation behind many of Disneyland (and other Disney parks) attractions, and how Imagineering shapes these experiences for guests. PREMISE Behind the […] Read more…
It’s been quite a while since I shared a craft project on the blog. When on a recent craft store trip, I saw some glittery paper that reminded me of a craft project I used to do with kids I babysat as a teenager that could easily be Disney-fied…a DIY fireworks display! You just need […] Read more…
If you’ve ever walked through a Disney theme park and marveled at the magic around every corner, chances are Marty Sklar had something to do with it. For over five decades, Marty was at the heart of Disney Imagineering, helping to create and expand parks all over the world. With his memoir, Dream It! Do […] Read more…
For many of us frequent park-goers, we develop a bit of a “Disney wardrobe” over time; clothing and accessories we often acquire during trips that we wear in and out of the parks. But if you’re like me, a lot of the official parks merchandise can get a bit old pretty quick. It’s often the […] Read more…
I’m always one to plan ahead when it comes to holiday shopping – I can’t get organized soon enough. If you’re like me and already trying to build out a list of what you need this year (and want some Disneyland magic mixed in there), I’ve organized some items in different categories I think would […] Read more…
As a 90s kid, Disney VHS tapes were the soundtrack to my childhood. I’ll still never forgive my mom (or myself) for throwing them out – I can still smell the boxes and hear the sound of the “rewinder” before putting them back on the shelf! But there’s one Disney VHS I have particular fondness […] Read more…
I’ve talked at length on this blog about the powerful ability Disneyland has to create nostalgia, joy, and real *magic* for park visitors. So you can imagine my excitement when I learned about a new book: How Does Disney Do That? How Disney Makes Us Feel and Why It Matters. The book is all about […] Read more…
Are you an 11th hour holiday shopper, or one to order gifts months in advance? For me, the earlier better so I don’t have to think about it anymore! If you’re working through your list and either have a Disneyland fan to shop for or want some Disneyland items for your own wish list, I’ve […] Read more…
I think you’re officially a Disney nerd when you consider park posters “art”. I just think the illustration style and design of these posters give so much personality. The creepy, foreboding color scheme of a Haunted Mansion poster shares almost nothing in common with the cotton candy cheer of a Dumbo poster – yet these […] Read more…
When you imagine a Disney employee – what job do you picture? An animator? A parks employee? A Disney store salesperson? While those are all definitely cast member positions, there are actually a ton of different departments and roles within Disney, many you’ve probably never heard of. Thus, One Day at Disney, a series designed to […] Read more…
As a self admitted map nerd, I’m fascinated by Disney parks ones in particular. I just find it so interesting which landscape features artists choose to feature, how lands transition, and what new rides emerging does to change the overall look from above. So imagine my excitement when I found a book on shopDisney focused […] Read more…