Amanda Robertson, a 33-year-old bride, recently shared the details and costs of her dream wedding at Disney World. She aimed to show that a Disney wedding can be a unique and memorable experience, challenging the idea that such a celebration is 'childish.' Her extensive planning and budget reveal what it takes to tie the knot in the magical setting.
Key Takeaways
- A Disney World wedding can cost around $120,000 for a comprehensive experience.
- Robertson found Disney wedding costs comparable to average Miami wedding prices.
- Special appearances by characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse cost an additional fee.
- Online groups and specialized planners can help reduce overall expenses.
- Most guests embraced the theme, extending their trips into vacations.
Childhood Dream Becomes Reality
For Amanda Robertson, getting married at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort was a lifelong dream. She recalls telling her mother about this aspiration as a toddler while riding a monorail. Nearly three decades later, as she began planning her wedding, this childhood wish started to seem possible.
Robertson, who previously worked as a wedding coordinator, started researching venues. She discovered that the cost of a Disney wedding was surprisingly similar to the average price of a wedding in Miami. This realization removed a major barrier to her dream.
Wedding Cost Snapshot
- Ceremony: $10,000
- Dessert Party: $9,000
- Second Welcome Party: $9,000
- Reception: $50,000
- Characters (Mickey & Minnie): $3,000
- Guardians of the Galaxy Ride: Separate fee
- Total Estimated Cost: Around $120,000
Overcoming Skepticism and Planning Insights
Robertson admitted that convincing some guests about her chosen venue required effort. "When we first said we're having a Disney wedding, some of our guests were like, 'Oh, you're getting married at a theme park? Isn't that kind of childish?’" she stated.
She worked to shift this perspective, emphasizing the unique experience a Disney wedding offers. Beyond the traditional resort setting, guests could enjoy attractions or witness fireworks with the bridal party. Robertson highlighted the value of providing a memorable experience for her 120 guests.
Leveraging Online Resources
To streamline the planning process, Robertson hired a wedding planner specializing in Disney events. She also joined several online communities for Disney brides. These groups provided valuable information that helped her save money on her budget.
"I went to Facebook and found a few different Facebook groups, and they post in there all day, every day, and it's such great information," Robertson said. "I was able to save a good chunk of money on my final budget just based off of the Facebook page alone."
The Full Disney Experience
Robertson's wedding was a multi-day event, starting with two welcome parties. The main reception alone accounted for approximately $50,000 of the total $120,000 budget. The couple also included special touches, such as a $3,000 fee for Mickey and Minnie Mouse to appear in two separate 30-minute sets.
During the first appearance, Mickey and Minnie surprised guests during a group photo opportunity. They later joined the couple for cake cutting and dancing. After watching fireworks in Epcot, Robertson changed into a party dress, and the characters returned for a more festive celebration.
Husband's Support
Robertson's husband, who had never visited Disney before they started dating, fully supported her dream. He recognized the significance of the event for her, saying, "I know this is part of my day, but this is her dream. She's been wanting to have this Disney wedding since she was a kid, so whatever she wants and however she wants to have it, I'm totally on board." His only request was a ride on the Guardians of the Galaxy attraction with the bridal party.
Guest Engagement and Lasting Memories
Despite concerns about guests traveling for the wedding, Robertson found an overwhelmingly positive response. Around 90% of her guests booked rooms at the Grand Floridian within their designated block. Many friends extended their stays, transforming the wedding into a full vacation.
This high level of guest engagement underscored Robertson's belief in the unique experience a Disney wedding offers. She expressed immense satisfaction with how the event unfolded.
"It's an experience," Robertson shared. "I just really wanted that experience, and my guests got it. I'm super happy with how it all turned out."
Demystifying Disney Weddings
Robertson now uses platforms like TikTok to share her wedding journey and provide insights into the process. She aims to demystify Disney weddings, showing that they are not just for children but can be sophisticated events tailored to any couple's desires.
She emphasized the versatility of Disney venues, which can be transformed to match any vision. Robertson encourages anyone considering a Disney wedding to explore the options available before dismissing the idea. "People are so hesitant, and they don't really understand what a Disney wedding is," she noted. "I think if anybody even has an inkling to do it, they need to just look into it and see if that's something they wanna do."
