I got engaged at Disney World! Here's some magical tips to keep in mind
As a little girl, I always dreamed about what it would be like to be proposed to in front of Cinderella castle, and I know I'm not the only one. So here's a former Disney World photographer's guide on how to propose to your Disney princess or prince in the most magical place on Earth.
For many Disney adults, Disney World, specifically Magic Kingdom, is the epitome of a fairytale come to life. So it's no wonder that so many, including myself, dreamed about what it would be like to have the love of their life propose to them at their favorite place on earth.
As someone who used to be a Photopass photographer at the Magic Kingdom and, more recently, as someone who got engaged in the Magic Kingdom, I have all sorts of tricks and tips I WISHED I could've bestowed on all the poor unfortunate souls who could've made their proposals even better.
But, fear not, while I may not be a magical fairy godmother, I wrote this guide to make sure your favorite Mouseketeer has the engagement of their dreams.
While it's a wonderful surprise, your photographer shouldn't be the one you're surprising!
Warn the photographer and let them know you're going to propose, or have someone in your party do so. This way, the photographer can mentally prepare for what's about to happen and plan out the poses and shots they want to take.
Photographers can also make the moment even more magical by taking Magic Shots, which is a photo that is digitally-enhanced to include Disney characters, balloons or famous Disney snacks and more. Additionally, if the photographer has the time, they can take you to other locations in the park near their station.
More Disney news: Disney World reveals start date for new Disney Starlight nighttime parade
As a Miami native, I'm no stranger to the heat. However, something about Orlando's heat and humidity is significantly worse than anywhere in South Florida. We ended up having to leave the park right after he proposed because I wasn't feeling well, and the heat was getting to me despite the copious amounts of water I was drinking.
To avoid any of these issues, I would suggest doing the following:
Propose first thing in the morning when you get to the park.
Take a break at the hotel when temperatures are at their highest and propose when you come back refreshed and ready. Sunsets at the parks are always gorgeous and look great in photos.
Bring a change of clothing if your partner is the kind of person who likes to stay at the park from open to close.
Finally, don't forget to pack the following:
Sunscreen
Sun protection, like baseball caps
Portable fans
Cooling towels
Water bottles
Photopass photographers are stationed all over the Walt Disney World Parks.
Many are stationed in front of the castle, but you can find photographers in front of the Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Belle's castle.
For $99, guests can also sign up for a private, 20-minute session called Capture Your Moment, where photopass photographers will follow you around the park and conduct your own personal photoshoot.
Sessions booked between May 26 and September 1 will receive a $20 discount, according to Disney World's website.
Capture your moment can be booked at the following parks:
Animal Kingdom
EPCOT
Hollywood Studios
Magic Kingdom
One of the brilliant things my fiancé did was that he didn't bring my actual ring to the parks!
I'm a very clumsy person, and I lose almost anything, so I know I would've been petrified to carry around my actual ring.
So, instead, my darling fiancé proposed to me with a $20 ring featuring a heart-shaped moonstone in the center, which he purchased on Amazon.
It was the only ring I wore throughout the engagement, and I was so proud to show it off whenever I told a cast member we were engaged. Additionally, I was able to wander throughout the park and ride the attractions without worrying that I might lose my very expensive engagement ring.
Personalize your engagement!
A castle proposal isn't the end-all be-all of Disney proposals.
Tailor your engagement to what your fiancée likes about Disney. You can propose just about anywhere!
You can even propose during a hot air balloon ride at Disney Springs, but make sure to have a backup plan in case it's shut down.
Be sure that this is the kind of proposal your partner wants!
There are always people around the parks, and proposals, especially the ones that take place on Main Street U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom, which is the street that leads to the famous castle, tend to draw an audience.
But, as long as you've done your homework and made sure this is what your partner wants, your Beloved is sure to adore the proposal no matter what.
So here's to you and your future happily ever after! Good luck!
Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. Connect with her on LinkedIn, X, Instagram and TikTok: @juliamariegz, or email her at jgomez@gannett.com
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Getting engaged at Disney? My story and how to plan the perfect proposal
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