Disney Social Media Moms 2011 – Platinum Soiree & Family Dinner

Last week we had the amazing opportunity to attend the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration at Walt Disney World Resort. We paid the conference fee and had an unforgettable trip. This is the second post in the series sharing the wonderful time we had at the event.

After putting the kids down for a nap at the Grand Floridian, Tired Dad Dave, Grandma O., and my mom (Grandma H.) headed out to our car which was incredibly far away in the self-park lot to get our luggage.

I had about 30 minutes to get ready to head over to the Disney FairyTale Weddings & Honeymoons Platinum Soiree, I thought that would be plenty of time. However, I didn’t realize how long it would take them to get the luggage from the car to the room. Luckily, they did arrive in time for me to change and I was able to make it to the Disney Wedding Pavilion located on the Grand Floridian.

The beginning of the Soiree was a wedding reception-like atmosphere. I walked in and was handed a pair of Minnie Ears with veil attached. As I approached the party, I saw lots of bloggers wearing the mouse ears and veils and couldn’t help but smile, it was such a cute idea!

While everyone mingled we gathered around an eye-catching and tasty candy buffet. We were able to fill colorful takeout boxes with candy to bring back to our families. How fun!

We spent the time munching on candy, drinking champagne, and finally meeting one another in real life. There were lots of hugs given, photos taken, and smiles all around.

As the reception continued, I wandered into the adjacent building to see what was inside. I was so happy I did. Take a look at some of the phenomenal Disney Weddings centerpieces and cakes that were on display!

I thought this one was so unique & creative!

This one was unbelievable – it was so gorgeous, but so tall I couldn’t fit it all in one photo! See the crystals glittering on the table and the fairies dangling from the branches?

The cakes were breathtaking!

After the reception, we were guided toward the chapel. Along the way we had an incredible view of the Grand Floridian and it’s beautiful beach.

Upon entering the chapel we all gasped as we discovered Cinderella’s Castle at the Magic Kingdom is framed perfectly at the end of the aisle. (My photo is off center & makes the castle look tiny, but it really was a beautiful view).

We shared many laughs as our MC’s for the evening were actors portraying Franck, the over-the-top wedding planner from Father-of-the-Bride, and Edna, from The Incredibles. I thought their jokes were hilarious and they kept the evening light and entertaining. Franck and Edna introduced us to a number of stars in the wedding world including:

• Carley Roney – Co-Founder of TheKnot.com
• Michael Shettel – Vice President of Design from Alfred Angelo
• David Tutera – TLC’s My Fair Wedding

After everyone spoke and a new Alfred Angelo wedding dress was unveiled, we had the chance to learn one couple’s Disney wedding story and the next thing we knew they were right in front of us dancing down the aisle to renew their vows. The chapel was filled with party music, dance steps, laughter, and a few happy tears as they said, “I do.”

We then were asked to return to the main pavilion area and were told there was one more surprise in store for us.

And what a surprise it was!

The bridal party, including the bride and groom, climbed into Cinderella’s horse & carriage and rode away waving. What an amazing touch!

The Soiree was so much fun and a wonderful opportunity to connect with other bloggers and to learn about Disney FairyTale Weddings & Honeymoons. It was also incredible to learn about the up-and-coming wedding trends from the best in the business.

By the end of the Soiree, we had worked up an appetite and were excited to catch up with our families for a fabulous dinner along the shores of the Grand Floridian.

They had carnival games & activities for the kids, Disney characters posing for photos, and even the best balloon animal creator, I’ve ever seen – he could make Mickey, Minnie, Ariel, Pluto, and pretty much anything the kids dreamed up.

And the food was delicious. We had kabobs, chicken, vegetarian dishes, tapas, and for the kids grilled cheese, hamburgers, and more. The desserts were incredible, I can’t believe I didn’t get a photo of dessert tables, but here’s a peek at Kora’s brownie – adorned in hidden Mickeys!

It was an unforgettable evening and it was only the beginning!

Learn about more about our first day in the previous post: Disney Social Media Moms 2011 – Villa, Hospitality & The Magic Kingdom…

Stay tuned for posts about the rest of the Disney Social Media Moms Celebration 2011 events and activities, as well as the conference itself and the amazing speakers.