In celebration of Walt Disney World’s 45th Anniversary, the WDW Radio Blog Team members are sharing their Walt Disney World “love stories” about the moment they became lifelong fans.
To describe when I fell in love with Walt Disney World I would have to go back to the day, my now husband, Brandon proposed to me. Following the proposal he told me that he already had a wedding date in mind that would be followed by going to Walt Disney World on our honeymoon as it would be a perfect time of year, the Fall. That was the trip that changed it all for me, that I became obsessed, that I couldn’t get enough information or learn the stories fast enough. That was when I delved into the world of listening to podcasts (Sorry Lou, you were the second podcast I found!)
Quick background on some other trips where I visited Walt Disney World prior to 2008. I grew up with a family that travelled to many different places and preferred a variety of destinations, but we did make it to Walt Disney World twice. I also visited twice in high school while serving as a nanny to a local family. My husband, on the other hand, grew up at Walt Disney World with yearly trips to the area. Our first trip together was with his family and while we were still dating, so he was able to show me the ropes! Then it became my turn to become the Disney Nerd and far exceed my in-laws (and even sometimes my husband’s) knowledge.
Now back to my current obsession: got a ring, started planning a wedding, and started trying to find more information about this magical place where we were going to honeymoon. I couldn’t get enough information! I learned the best times to ride attractions, which restaurants to eat at and when, and which resort best fit us.
We got married on a Friday evening and had to leave for the airport at 4am the next morning! Forget being tired, we didn’t want to miss a second. We got our “Just Married” buttons at check in, and I headed to the spa at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort to get my hair cut (I had grown it out long for the wedding, but couldn’t stand to leave it that way for another week!!).
The next day, we were off to the parks, and I couldn’t believe how many people stopped us to ask when we had gotten married or to offer us congratulations. What was even more amazing was that many of the people were other park guests. The week flew by with special experiences ranging from phone calls telling us “congratulations” to complementary desserts at meals. That was the moment when I realized how special of a place Walt Disney World is and how every Cast Member wants to treat you special for any and all reasons. This company can take your mind off anything and make you feel completely happy during your visit.
We have celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, the announcement that I was pregnant, and my husband being done with law school and taking the bar exam (although we didn’t have the results yet). Each celebration has brought special moments that we won’t forget. That is where my passion and love comes from, other people who have passion for making me smile.
(Photo from the author’s personal collection.)
Did you fall in love with Walt Disney World while celebrating a special occasion like a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary, birthday, etc.? Tell us about it in the comments section below!
Alyssa Wiseman, her husband Brandon, and toddler son, Walt, reside in central Indiana (too far from Disney). Alyssa and Brandon enjoy traveling to Disney several times a year to see what is new and enjoy classic Disney. While traveling, and at home, Alyssa is frequently shopping for Disney products and making a list of items to buy while in the parks. Please follow Alyssa on twitter @ajwiseman09.
