Why Do People Feel It's OK To Decorate Resort Windows?

[jakeybake]

I know I'm going to be toasted for having the nerve to ask the question but why do folks think it's ok to throw all that stuff on the resort windows?

The largest part of every WDW trip for us (and for a lot of people I assume) are the illusion and atmosphere that Disney creates. They put more time and effort into creating a dream escape for people then any other company in the world and leave nothing to chance when doing so.

If I am paying good money for my family to be taken away from everyday life and into a "dream" world then the last thing I want to see are people messing with the allure and experience of the resort by choosing to put pictures, wording and symbols all over their resort windows, as if it was their own home. Again, Disney puts a lot of time and effort into atmosphere and folks slapping thier own personal items on the resort windows seems a bit self serving to me.

If I'm staying at the Port Orleans Riverside I want to feel as if I'm walking through the old south and taking in the sights and sounds of the resort. I don't need to see windows plastered with nonsense about the Jones and Smith families. And I'm stunned as to why people think anyone else would care to see it.

Sorry, I know I am coming across as old grumpy gills but I just don't get it and I know the torching session on me will begin shortly!!

Jay

[kmvand1]

Yes, I will agree with you on this, I think it completely cheapens the look of the resorts.

[TangaroaTiki]

I have no clue why people do it or why they think it's fun. Seems like a big waste of time to me, not to mention that it looks tacky :confused3

[Lilolvr]

popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

[aristocats_lover]

I would much rather see a few Disney decorations on a window, then a beach towel thrown over the railing, or food trays left outside the door to be picked up, or tripped over. What are your thoughts on towel animals, those are placed in the windows too.

[blondemom]

I've actually never seen windows decorated. We've mostly stayed at the Wilderness Lodge. Maybe people don't decorate there? Maybe I'm just too busy to notice? We're heading back to the World in August. I will keep my eyes open for window decorations.

:)

[mana_liz]

Get over it...people can decorate if they want...if Disney doesn't care why do you?

[SteveS]

Count me in on that bus. I hate those decorations that some people impose on the rest of us. Keep your decorations inside your room.

[mana_liz]

Count me in on that bus. I hate those decorations that some people impose on the rest of us. Keep your decorations inside your room.


They are inside our rooms...if you don't like them...just keep walking by, don't look.

[rosiep]

I don't do it myself, but it doesn't bother me if someone wants to decorate their windows. This past trip it seems Mousekeeping did it for me:
http://i124.photobucket.com/albums/p21/rosiepik/disney2008040.jpg

[Technosavant]

Don't really care either way. I do think it looks tacky, but you only really notice if you're right outside the rooms; from a distance it's unnoticeable. If it makes the trip that much more special for a family, so be it.

As for destroying the "feel," well, remember that Disney's interpretation of these places is an idealized and extremely well kept version. I have a pretty strong feeling that the area along the rivers next to New Orleans is nothing like POR's Magnolia Bend (where we stayed last visit).

[Kitka]

I think it gives the resort a dorm atmosphere instead of an expensive resort - which it is!

[*KeepMovingForward*]

Different strokes for different folks. I've never had someone's decorations upset me. They are having fun and that's what I'm there for too.

ETA: RosieP...love what Mousekeeping did to your window. Very cute! How could anyone not like that?

[Baltazar]

Now I feel bad for putting a bunch of Disney toys on the resort windowsill.

My wife even brought home some vinyl snowflakes and some other Disney vinyl stickies.

I feel bad for the folks appalled by our display but that won't stop us.

We got nothing but rave reviews on our last trip.

[DiznEeyore]

I've actually never seen windows decorated. We've mostly stayed at the Wilderness Lodge. Maybe people don't decorate there? Maybe I'm just too busy to notice? We're heading back to the World in August. I will keep my eyes open for window decorations.

:)

It doesn't normally occur at the deluxes, only the values and moderates which have their windows facing the walkways. Although I have seen photos of people putting Christmas lights and even inflatables on their balconies!

[moonpie85]

Now I feel bad for putting a bunch of Disney toys on the resort windowsill.

My wife even brought home some vinyl snowflakes and some other Disney vinyl stickies.

I feel bad for the folks appalled by our display but that won't stop us.

We got nothing but rave reviews on our last trip.

Hey we'll be there at the same time!

[FairyGodmother76]

I never thought it would have bothered anyone to put decorations in our window. I dont think too many people even saw ours because we were on the 4th floor at Pop Century. Also, with Pop being a value resort that has ALOT of kids, I dont think it was a big deal. In fact Mousekeeping added towel animals to our display and some inside our room which made our 9 year old smile!

Hope you dont mind me adding the pictures!

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll268/TROME625/window1-1.jpg

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll268/TROME625/window2.jpg

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll268/TROME625/door-1.jpg

[CarolinaBlue]

FairyGodmother76: Those are great pics! I love the decorations!

I love to see the windows decorated and I will be decorating my window in 24 days!

[BeckieSue]

I agree that decorated windows do look tacky. People now use the writing paint....is it really necessary???? (also hear that it dosent always come off well) I do think that what mousekeeping did is cute, but its not something you would leave for the week you are there. I have a DS & DD, but we would much rather enjoy the magic that Disney has provided than ghetto up the place.

[CarolinaBlue]

I agree that decorated windows do look tacky. People now use the writing paint....is it really necessary???? (also hear that it dosent always come off well) I do think that what mousekeeping did is cute, but its not something you would leave for the week you are there. I have a DS & DD, but we would much rather enjoy the magic that Disney has provided than ghetto up the place.

:confused3

[mana_liz]

I agree that decorated windows do look tacky. People now use the writing paint....is it really necessary???? (also hear that it dosent always come off well) I do think that what mousekeeping did is cute, but its not something you would leave for the week you are there. I have a DS & DD, but we would much rather enjoy the magic that Disney has provided than ghetto up the place.


I don't think some window clings and such...ghetto up the place.

If Disney didn't want you to do it or they found it offensive to the theme...they wouldn't allow it.

I'm beginning to think that some people just need to have something to complain (would have used a different word, but will be polite) about...

[storybookmum]

Oh, good heavens - lighten up a little bit. The "dorm look" is a way of claiming space and making it your own. I haven't seen anything put pictures of the window decorations, but I think it's a friendly and cute way of making the room and the resort feel more personal to the individual families.

I would agree that if something doesn't come off easily, it's not fair to mousekeeping to put it on the windows. Nothing should make more work for them, that would be really inconsiderate. But otherwise? I think people should be able to enjoy themselves and share with passers-by without anyone feeling the need to be snotty about it.

When we stayed at POR last time, we came home to our stuffies all perched on the windowsill looking for our return - courtesy of mousekeeping. It felt so warm and friendly and cute - we were touched.

(We also had a WONDERFUL cluster of stuffies on the bed one night, all gathered around a Bible propped up for them all to "read." That one was perfect for our kids - they loved it!)

[tw1nsmom]

I thought that Disney was now actively discouraging people from decorating the windows?:confused3 I remember reading on another thread that they were now charging people $25 a day if they put anything on the doors or windows.

[mom23sweetgirlies]

As long as Disney doesn't mind and the display isn't offensive, than I don't see what the big deal is? I think it looks kind of cute and I'm sure the people who do it have kids that really enjoy it.
I won't be decorating our windows, because I wouldn't want to have to bring any more stuff then we have to, but seeing other peoples displays won't bother me. :)

[SoScary'09]

Oh, good heavens - lighten up a little bit. The "dorm look" is a way of claiming space and making it your own. I haven't seen anything put pictures of the window decorations, but I think it's a friendly and cute way of making the room and the resort feel more personal to the individual families.

I would agree that if something doesn't come off easily, it's not fair to mousekeeping to put it on the windows. Nothing should make more work for them, that would be really inconsiderate. But otherwise? I think people should be able to enjoy themselves and share with passers-by without anyone feeling the need to be snotty about it.kids

Well said:goodvibes
Certainly not out to cause any drama, but IMO-

If someone wants to decorate their room because they're thrilled to be on vacation, why should it be of any concern? Sure some of them may look tacky, but if you're concerned about tacky then you've definitely picked the wrong spot for vacation.:rolleyes: Maybe something more adult is in order if this is actually an issue to you?

FYI, many of the decorations you see are sometimes for special occassions, i.e. a child's birthday, a wedding anniversary, and so on. If you're going to go to a family themed park with different people from all walks of life, expect the weird, the tacky, etc. Step out of your box and lighten up.

Now, if the resort/hotel had strict rules about decorating then that would be a whole other thing entirely. But I really don't see the harm in it. It is rude/inconsiderate if you're going to make a mess and not clean up after yourself. Hopefully those that do decorate exercise the common decency to mousekeeping when doing so. When I'm there next fall, putting up my tasteless Mickey Halloween decorations, I'll be sure to make note to clean up after myself.

And whoever mentioned ghettoing up the place, I took offense to that. Think before you post.:guilty:

[SallyfromDE]

I don't think some window clings and such...ghetto up the place.

If Disney didn't want you to do it or they found it offensive to the theme...they wouldn't allow it.

I'm beginning to think that some people just need to have something to complain (would have used a different word, but will be polite) about...


I don't think it ghetto's up the place either. The kids love to walk around the resorts to see what people have done to thier windows. We stayed at PO last trip and they were really disappointed not to see much. They put window clings in the windows at home for Easter, Halloween, Xmas etc.... so why not have some fun while on vacation. It's a big event for them.

I've heard that Disney will charge if you use window paint. I am assuming becuase of the extra care it takes for cleaning.

If someone wants to decorate thier room, what is to anyone else? If you don't like it, the MYOB!!

[jakeybake]

I would venture to say that more people than not are there on special occasions so that argument doesn't fly with me. I just don't see the point. It's not your home or your property. It's a public place in which people pay lots and lots of money for the ambience.

I feel as though that ambience takes a hit when you plaster your window, facing outward many times I might add with information about little Johnny's birthday.

Guess what, no one else staying there really cares about little Johnny's birthday of your anniversary but you so I just don't see the need to force your decorations on other people at at public place.

If your home it's one thing, but you're not home your at a resort with hunderds, if not thousands of other people.

And I know it sounds harsh but I don't mean it that way, I just don't see the point.

Jay

[rosiep]

If someone wants to decorate their room because they're thrilled to be on vacation, why should it be of any concern? Sure some of them may look tacky, but if you're concerned about tacky then you've definitely picked the wrong spot for vacation.:rolleyes: Maybe something more adult is in order if this is actually an issue to you?

That's a very good point. If I'm going to Disney I expect to see grown men with mouse ears, women with fanny packs, whole families in matching attire....It comes with the territory. If I wanted something more reserved I'd take myself off to......:confused3 I'm not reserved so I haven't a clue.:lmao:

[moonpie85]

I agree that decorated windows do look tacky. People now use the writing paint....is it really necessary???? (also hear that it dosent always come off well) I do think that what mousekeeping did is cute, but its not something you would leave for the week you are there. I have a DS & DD, but we would much rather enjoy the magic that Disney has provided than ghetto up the place.

:lmao: love it!

[Luvamouse]

Wow, way to suck the happiness right out of those people who do choose to decorate and feel they are sharing the happiness WDW offers. :rolleyes1

I don't decorate, and wouldn't outside of our room, and I do feel inflatables on balconies should not be allowed. That is a bit much and is too obvious to ignore. But when did someone putting happy things up in their window ever hurt anyone? I can still enjoy the atmosphere of the Poly even if I walk by a window that is all decorated by a happy family. What really bugs me are the children who are allowed to run up and down the hallway so their parents can relax together without the children bothering them. My kids know they can't run in the hall. That definitely bugs me more than decorations.:sad2:

[maxiesmom]

That's a very good point. If I'm going to Disney I expect to see grown men with mouse ears, women with fanny packs, whole families in matching attire....It comes with the territory. If I wanted something more reserved I'd take myself off to......:confused3 I'm not reserved so I haven't a clue.:lmao:

That is what I don't understand. People complain about the amibance being ruined, yet everywhere you see people walking around in Mickey Tees with mousears on their heads. Should that not be allowed, cause it ruins the ambiance? People in Mickey Tees are a heck of a lot more visable than the resort windows. Do they too "getto up the place"? Maybe all resorts should make you dress in keeping with the them, so as to not ruin some people's fantasy.:idea:

Really, what a silly thing to get upset over. I agree with the poster who said that some people just seem to need something to complain about.

[Tissa]

Why worry about it?

It is Disneyworld we are talking about. You are supposed to be silly and have fun. Where is the harm?

If Disney feels this is not ok then they will deal with the matter.

[mana_liz]

I would venture to say that more people than not are there on special occasions so that argument doesn't fly with me. I just don't see the point. It's not your home or your property. It's a public place in which people pay lots and lots of money for the ambience.

I feel as though that ambience takes a hit when you plaster your window, facing outward many times I might add with information about little Johnny's birthday.

Guess what, no one else staying there really cares about little Johnny's birthday of your anniversary but you so I just don't see the need to force your decorations on other people at at public place.

If your home it's one thing, but you're not home your at a resort with hunderds, if not thousands of other people.

And I know it sounds harsh but I don't mean it that way, I just don't see the point.

Jay

If you don't want to read about little Johnny's b-day...DON'T STOP TO LOOK...keeping looking straight ahead of you and not to the side where the windows are...My mom has a saying "Look where you're going not where you've been.

It's not being forced on anyone...the decorations are up in the rooms...that we've paid for...if it was forced on you, then your windows would be decorated too.

[FireDancer]

If it doesn’t bother Disney it doesn’t bother me. I almost always stay at the Pop and have been there many times and while I’m sure I have seen decorated windows I can’t recall a single instance.

[lisaanddenny]

although it doesnt make my trip less fun, its kind of odd that someone would decorate someone else's windows, I see tape on windows and housekeeping trying to get that tape off............I would never expect a house keeper to clean that up after me............decals arent messy and do what you gotta do but the tape, that is just wrong, unless you take every piece off prior to leaving..................maybe its a value thing:rotfl2:

[Kristineamb]

I thought that Disney was now actively discouraging people from decorating the windows?:confused3 I remember reading on another thread that they were now charging people $25 a day if they put anything on the doors or windows.
I have stayed @Pop 3xs, decorated my windows/doors each time and was never charged.
http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn262/kristineamb/P1000597.jpg
http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn262/kristineamb/P1000596.jpg
http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn262/kristineamb/P1000595.jpg
http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn262/kristineamb/P1000592.jpg
http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn262/kristineamb/20071228_195031.jpg
http://i306.photobucket.com/albums/nn262/kristineamb/20071228_195054.jpg

[aristocats_lover]

I would venture to say that more people than not are there on special occasions so that argument doesn't fly with me. I just don't see the point. It's not your home or your property. It's a public place in which people pay lots and lots of money for the ambience.

I feel as though that ambience takes a hit when you plaster your window, facing outward many times I might add with information about little Johnny's birthday.

Guess what, no one else staying there really cares about little Johnny's birthday of your anniversary but you so I just don't see the need to force your decorations on other people at at public place.

If your home it's one thing, but you're not home your at a resort with hunderds, if not thousands of other people.

And I know it sounds harsh but I don't mean it that way, I just don't see the point.

Jay

Wow. Are you offended when you see people wearing their celebration buttons then? How about those birthday cake hats, do those upset you? You may want to avoid the Year of Celebration...a decorated room is something Disney is offering themselves now!

[tw1nsmom]

Ok, here's the thread I was talking about. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1902076

I would hate to have someone go to all the trouble of making and collecting the decorations, bringing them with them, decorating the window, and then be charged an additional $25 a day until they take them down. It may not be uniformly enforced, but I wouldn't want to risk it.

[blondemom]

A friend works at the Caribbean Beach resort. I asked her about this just to see her reaction. Now, this is just what one person said. She said that WDW does not encourage decorating windows, but it is not against any policy right now. However, she said that they are considering a fee that would be imposed for the 50% to 60% of people who do not remove the clings, erasable markers, etc. from the windows! I was stunned to learn that people leave their decorations up when they go home. :confused: One would assume if you put it up, you would take it down. While I don't think the decorations would bother me at all, I truly feel bad for the housekeeping staff if the decorations are left behind and they have to do that much more work. Then, yes, I could see being billed some fee.

[mana_liz]

A friend works at the Caribbean Beach resort. I asked her about this just to see her reaction. Now, this is just what one person said. She said that WDW does not encourage decorating windows, but it is not against any policy right now. However, she said that they are considering a fee that would be imposed for the 50% to 60% of people who do not remove the clings, erasable markers, etc. from the windows! I was stunned to learn that people leave their decorations up when they go home. :confused: One would assume if you put it up, you would take it down. While I don't think the decorations would bother me at all, I truly feel bad for the housekeeping staff if the decorations are left behind and they have to do that much more work. Then, yes, I could see being billed some fee.


I agree with charging those that don't clean up after themselves...we always take ours down when we leave.

[WDW1st-timers]

Just wanted to mention to all you haters out there....I'm in Disney from Dec 8th to Dec 20th and I'll be at POP. Make sure you look at my door and window because I'm going to really do it up just to bug all you. I'm going to make sure that it's really done to the nines just to tick you off even more. I have everything from Christmas lights to a Mickey mouse Christmas wreath going up and everything inbetween; and when I'm there at night on my laptop, I'll make sure that I upload some pics onto this thread for ALL TO SEE.;)

Just to let you also know....I decorate for myself....my kids....my family. Personally I could careless what you think, since you can't find nothing else to complain about.

And YES I ALWAYS clean up after we check out.

Cheers:thumbsup2

[pamouselover]

I never thought it would have bothered anyone to put decorations in our window. I dont think too many people even saw ours because we were on the 4th floor at Pop Century. Also, with Pop being a value resort that has ALOT of kids, I dont think it was a big deal. In fact Mousekeeping added towel animals to our display and some inside our room which made our 9 year old smile!

Hope you dont mind me adding the pictures!

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll268/TROME625/window1-1.jpg

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll268/TROME625/window2.jpg

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll268/TROME625/door-1.jpg
:banana: Love it fairygodmother76, I am from Delco also. Maybe it is all of us pa'ers who decorate.:laughing: Where did you get the Pa license plate on the window. Too cute.

That's a very good point. If I'm going to Disney I expect to see grown men with mouse ears, women with fanny packs, whole families in matching attire....It comes with the territory. If I wanted something more reserved I'd take myself off to......:confused3 I'm not reserved so I haven't a clue.:lmao:
I so agree! It is fun, you only live once.
Why worry about it?

It is Disneyworld we are talking about. You are supposed to be silly and have fun. Where is the harm?

If Disney feels this is not ok then they will deal with the matter.

:thumbsup2
Our window will be decorated, and we are celebrating my sons 16th birthday! :upsidedow

[nickjonas1221]

I would venture to say that more people than not are there on special occasions so that argument doesn't fly with me. I just don't see the point. It's not your home or your property. It's a public place in which people pay lots and lots of money for the ambience.

I feel as though that ambience takes a hit when you plaster your window, facing outward many times I might add with information about little Johnny's birthday.

Guess what, no one else staying there really cares about little Johnny's birthday of your anniversary but you so I just don't see the need to force your decorations on other people at at public place.

If your home it's one thing, but you're not home your at a resort with hunderds, if not thousands of other people.

And I know it sounds harsh but I don't mean it that way, I just don't see the point.

Jay

I'm a DVC member so yes, I think that gives me the right to decorate my room and the windows for my daughter this X-mas. Just keep walking by and don't look...:mad:

[nickjonas1221]

Just wanted to mention to all you haters out there....I'm in Disney from Dec 8th to Dec 20th and I'll be at POP. Make sure you look at my door and window because I'm going to really do it up just to bug all you. I'm going to make sure that it's really done to the nines just to tick you off even more. I have everything from Christmas lights to a Mickey mouse Christmas wreath going up and everything inbetween; and when I'm there at night on my laptop, I'll make sure that I upload some pics onto this thread for ALL TO SEE.;)

Just to let you also know....I decorate for myself....my kids....my family. Personally I could careless what you think, since you can't find nothing else to complain about.

And YES I ALWAYS clean up after we check out.

Cheers:thumbsup2

I look forward to seeing it.:santa: Do it up for the Holidays.:santa:

[inaweofbnl]

I would like to add a new perspective to this topic.

To anyone thinking of decorating the windows, please be sure that your drapes are drawn tightly at night. Kids, as well as some adults, see these decorated windows and usually are drawn to them and want to see what is on display.

Unfortunately, on our most recent trip, my 2 year old DD noticed Tinkerbell in the window of one decorated room/window . She stopped to admire it and that is when DH and I noticed a couple "enjoying the magic." They did not have the drapes closed all of the way and the Tinkerbell was in the portion of the window that had light peering from behind it. :laughing:

[Baltazar]

I would like to add a new perspective to this topic.

To anyone thinking of decorating the windows, please be sure that your drapes are drawn tightly at night. Kids, as well as some adults, see these decorated windows and usually are drawn to them and want to see what is on display.

Unfortunately, on our most recent trip, my 2 year old DD noticed Tinkerbell in the window of one decorated room/window . She stopped to admire it and that is when DH and I noticed a couple "enjoying the magic." They did not have the drapes closed all of the way and the Tinkerbell was in the portion of the window that had light peering from behind it. :laughing:

At least she didn't bang on the window and yell "Mommy, there,s Tinkerbell".

:lmao:

[swald91]

Well, I have never actually seen a room/door/window decorated except in pics. I do know there was a thread back a few months ago about Disney charging to do this. I think they should. Basically b/c the markers/tape leave residue that's hard to get off windows. I go to Disney to relax-I really wouldn't mind seeing it but it does cheapen the look of the resort. I can't imagine bringing all the stuff to decorate when I usually forget something at home. When at the Poly in Aug we had a neighbor put up a small board to write messages on of course w/ a LGMH & people signed it. I also noticed it was down the next day. Wondering if Disney asked them to take it off the door????

[onehotdisneymama]

Oh Boy! Gotta put my two cents in here. Within the last few months we have been at the Coronado Springs, All-Star Music, Animal Kingdom Lodge and Ft. Wilderness Cabins, and yes, we have decorated everytime. We have had no notices or calls left about the decorations. We clean up at the end of our stay and everything goes home until we want to use it again. When you are greeted, "Welcome Home", well, I take it to heart. I decorate just like at home. If my neighbors don't like it, Oh, well.:lmao: We will be out at Ft. Wilderness for Christmas. Please come by and let me make your day.:rotfl2: My fellow decorators, please keep up the good work. My family loves to see your handy work.:santa:

[tiggertabi]

Perhaps you should keep you eyes looking ahead or at the "ambience" of the resort, and not look at/in other people's windows.

Bah humbug.

[lazydoxy66]

I guess some of you have never been greeted with 'Welcome Home'.

I love to celebrate. I celebrate my life, my good fortune, my friendships, my marriage, the holidays and my love for all people, no matter their background or views.

I love birthday cakes and streamers. I love garland and mistletoe. I love those silly little drawings of turkeys made by children.

I love to see others celebrating as I do. I thank all of you that do.

For those of you who are offended, I am truly sorry. I am also saddened to think that anyone wanting to share their joy with others would be viewed as a detriment to your vacation.

There are a lot of adults and children that will never know the joys of Walt Disney World. Those of us who get this privilege should be thankful to be able to do so.

A few decorated windows should be the least of our concerns.

[TinkerBrie]

I have never decorated my windows, but I love to see the decorations! Where else but in Disney? Go crazy! It's fun! My daughter loves it too!!!

[checkwriter]

I'll start by saying that we don't decorate. That said, I think it says something about Disney and the loyalty and devotion that it is able to inspire in its customers that those people will take the time and trouble to treat their very expensive (at any level, when compared with what's available outside the World) resort rooms the same way that they treat their homes.

People feel different about Disney then they do about Hilton. Even about Paris Hilton. But I digress.

I can see how it might bother some people. But I can see the other side as well -- people who decorate are making their own magic, and doing for their little temporary slice of WDW what Disney is trying to do with the rest of WDW, which is to make it a special place that people will want to come back to over and over again.

(Extract and use hankie now)

That said -- please clean up after yourselves, decorating people! And for God's sake, close those drapes!

[scrappystamper1]

We went Christmas 2007 adn I decorated for the first time.
I actually bought and brought a 3 foot christmas tree and decorations for it. we put lights up in our window and put up a tree. Now...here is the best part.
I actually met three nice families here on DISBOARDS that were traveling after me to my same hotel and we set up an agreement to leave the decorations (packaged up of course) at the front desk for the next family in line. Now I probably spent $25 total, and we enjoyed them while we were there, CLEANED UP AFTER OURSELVES>>>, and others got to enjoy it also.
It was so fun knowing that someone else would get to use it next.
It was a pay it forward thing.
Janet

[Honeystar120608]

I haven't gone through all this thread, but I find interesting. I for one am going to be decoration my window. We are celebrating...2 birthdays, our first DW vacation, and Christmas. Just as I would decorate home for Christmas, I want to decorate at DW. Also, and teh biggest point, I am staying at a Value Resort. Not that they are CHEAP or any less better than any other resorts. I want to stay there because it is much more geared towards kids. (ASmovies) If I were staying at CBR or CSR or ANY other resort I can totally understand. It has an adult feel. We were going to go with CSR, but switched because this is about the kids more than for us. They would get the magic a lot more at ASmovies.
I also think that sometimes you get in this DW where you feel as though everything must be done. I have been in it...and I've tossed my schedule and DLX DP just to go and relax and enjoy. This being said, some windows are beautiful and festive and some aren't. If you don't like your neighbours Christmas decorations you can't go up to them and complain. Yet you pay a mortgage.
See, Im on both sides! lol
Hope everyone gets the trip they wish for and find happiness in how others make their happiness. There just isn't enough 'magic' in the world today so be patient with others while they make some for themselves. You don't know, maybe they had a loved one who just died and they did it for themselves. You just don't know...
Everyone, HAPPY DISNEY WORLD VACATIONS!!!:banana:

[siestakey]

I love seeing all the decorated windows, it shows me how much fun people are having with their family. I see you have just recently starting posting, only 24 posts to date, and from the tone of some of your other posts, like the Grand Floridian thread, you seem to have alot of complaints about many different things. I think it is time for you to stop and look around and just start enjoying life, and let the complaining go.

[jakeybake]

If you don't want to read about little Johnny's b-day...DON'T STOP TO LOOK...keeping looking straight ahead of you and not to the side where the windows are...My mom has a saying "Look where you're going not where you've been.

It's not being forced on anyone...the decorations are up in the rooms...that we've paid for...if it was forced on you, then your windows would be decorated too.


I don't stop to look, but I have no choice but to see them because I'm surrounded by it. And it is being forced on me because I pay for Disney resort vacation, not a bunch of nonsense that only applies to one family.

Using your logic, if you were driving down I4 and there was a billboard of a naked woman you (or your kids) wouldn't have to look so what's the big deal of it being there? Your logic suggests that you just look away and it's no big deal. We both know that's nonsense.

And you're not paying for the right to put up decorations in your window. You're paying to stay at a resort that other people are occupying. Someone previously mentioned they disliked people hanging towels from their room/balcony. What's the difference? Maybe that towel is special to one of their kids? Maybe that towel is a statement on something?

Where do you draw the line?

[Baltazar]

Where do you draw the line?

I believe it's called common sense.

The reason we do it is to give back some joy and to make our room a little different than the others. It turns a stark expanse of stucco, steel and glass into home. Plus it's real easy to find our room.

It's similar to why people decorate their work space, personal touch.

[Otootles]

To quote Joe Biden,

It's all about 3 letters, 3 letters onlyKIDS

Nough said

[inaweofbnl]

Perhaps you should keep you eyes looking ahead or at the "ambience" of the resort, and not look at/in other people's windows.

Bah humbug.

As far as looking ''in'' at other's windows...my comment about seeing a happy couple do their thing was NOT a peeping issue, nor intentional!!!!!

I am not for or against decorations, which was nearer to the topic, but when there is a 52 inch rump pressed against a table 3 inches from the window, how can one not see it, windows decorated or not? As I stated, my 2 year old noticed it, as most kids do, and was drawn to it. The decorations just made the event that much more noticeable. Hence, the purpose of my warning.

Next time you are walking around a WDW resort and there is a window decorated, YOU try not noticing it while the flashing lights and every color of the rainbow are on display. If you are unable to notice all of the displays, against it or for it, then check your peripheral vision. It is impossible. No, you do not need to stop and take notes, nor do you have to stare once you do take note of it's presence, but you can not NOT notice that it is there. And that is what I believe the OP meant by displays hurting ''the ambience of the resort."

[pamouselover]

I guess some of you have never been greeted with 'Welcome Home'.

I love to celebrate. I celebrate my life, my good fortune, my friendships, my marriage, the holidays and my love for all people, no matter their background or views.

I love birthday cakes and streamers. I love garland and mistletoe. I love those silly little drawings of turkeys made by children.

I love to see others celebrating as I do. I thank all of you that do.

For those of you who are offended, I am truly sorry. I am also saddened to think that anyone wanting to share their joy with others would be viewed as a detriment to your vacation.

There are a lot of adults and children that will never know the joys of Walt Disney World. Those of us who get this privilege should be thankful to be able to do so.

A few decorated windows should be the least of our concerns.

I ditto everything you just said! You sum it up for me. Thanks for making me smile today! Also, is WDW not selling items this year, (decorations) for what will you celebrate theme? Do the cruise lines not do this also?

[Monny2AE]

I can't believe you are actually comparing a naked lady to WDW. :lmao: Really?

The point is that Disney is a magical FAMILY friendly place. Your comments about not caring if it's someone's birthday or not are not in line with what WDW is all about in my opinion.

I've never decorated a window (yet) but I don't see any problem with it as long as it is cleaned up when you are finished. If someone wants to make their family's stay a little more magical, then let them.

I'm off to start designing my window clings for my stay in January. And yes...I will remove them when I leave. :wizard:

[mana_liz]

I don't stop to look, but I have no choice but to see them because I'm surrounded by it. And it is being forced on me because I pay for Disney resort vacation, not a bunch of nonsense that only applies to one family.

Using your logic, if you were driving down I4 and there was a billboard of a naked woman you (or your kids) wouldn't have to look so what's the big deal of it being there? Your logic suggests that you just look away and it's no big deal. We both know that's nonsense.

And you're not paying for the right to put up decorations in your window. You're paying to stay at a resort that other people are occupying. Someone previously mentioned they disliked people hanging towels from their room/balcony. What's the difference? Maybe that towel is special to one of their kids? Maybe that towel is a statement on something?

Where do you draw the line?


Actually I am paying to decorate my windows...since the window is still part of the room I'm paying for...also I'm paying to go to Disney World...the parks...I stay on-site because it's convenient. I stay at a value resort because it's cheaper...I really don't care about how my few window clings ruin the ambience of a resort that has a gaint big wheel or bowling pin.

If it's ambience your looking for maybe Disney World it's for you...it's really for the kids or the kid at heart...and you seem like neither to me.

Your billboard comparison is a mute point...I don't look at billboards because I'm paying attention to my driving not some sign advertising where the next Cracker Barrel is. Like I said look where your going not where you've been.

[mana_liz]

Also, do you not think that Disney should offer this service...because they do...you can call the Disney Florist dept. and for a fee they will come decorate your room.


Does it ruin the look if they come do it or just if I do it myself?

[SydneyFalco]

Of course people should be allowed to do it.

Of course it looks trashy.

Welcome to the modern world.

Daycare... EVERYwhere.

[MickeyMomOfThree]

Mousekeeping has decorated our windows on (if I remember correctly) every one of our trips. The kids always love to see what they have done. Stuffed animals in the windows, or towel animals, whatever. We have not done it but we always leave it. I think it's cute. Until discovering DIS, I assumed all the windows we saw were done by Mousekeeping. (We never have seen any lights or anything that I can recall.)

[inaweofbnl]

[QUOTE=mana_liz;28818730][COLOR="DeepSkyBlue"]Also, do you not think that Disney should offer this service...because they do...you can call the Disney Florist dept. and for a fee they will come decorate your room.


Something good came out of this thread...I was not aware that Disney Floral would decorate the room as well as provide flowers and goodies. Thanks, I will use them on our January trip.:thumbsup2

[roxy83]

I never even thought to decorate our hotel window...until MOUSEKEEPING did it. We arrived back to our room a few years ago with a sign in the window from Mickey and all of our stuffed animals on display. Ever since then we have had fun with it. We met alot of really cool people thanks to our windows and theres. We decorate tastefully (which of course is subjective) and will continue to do so.

I am always perplexed at how many people go to Disney with attitudes. All I have to say is loosen up, have some fun, and make AWESOME memories with your families. My tinkerbell picture is not affecting your memories but rather your perception. Perhaps if we went into each situation with a positive attitude our perception would be different. :hippie:

[SallyfromDE]

Ok, here's the thread I was talking about. http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1902076

I would hate to have someone go to all the trouble of making and collecting the decorations, bringing them with them, decorating the window, and then be charged an additional $25 a day until they take them down. It may not be uniformly enforced, but I wouldn't want to risk it.

It was because of that washable marker they used.

Well, I have never actually seen a room/door/window decorated except in pics. I do know there was a thread back a few months ago about Disney charging to do this. I think they should. Basically b/c the markers/tape leave residue that's hard to get off windows. I go to Disney to relax-I really wouldn't mind seeing it but it does cheapen the look of the resort. I can't imagine bringing all the stuff to decorate when I usually forget something at home. When at the Poly in Aug we had a neighbor put up a small board to write messages on of course w/ a LGMH & people signed it. I also noticed it was down the next day. Wondering if Disney asked them to take it off the door????

Well, I'm not a fan of POP or ASM because I happen to think the resorts look cheap and gaudy. But we stay there because the kids like it.

Who knows about the message board. I wouldn't go that far. And lights only at Xmas. We put magnets on the door to match our Halloween theme for MNNSHP. But the heat kept making them fall off Maybe the board had the same problem?

Perhaps you should keep you eyes looking ahead or at the "ambience" of the resort, and not look at/in other people's windows.

Bah humbug.

The kids love to walk around and look at the windows. But we've never actually stopped and walked up to one. We just casually walk by and look.

[memphismovin]

It doesn't normally occur at the deluxes, only the values and moderates which have their windows facing the walkways. Although I have seen photos of people putting Christmas lights and even inflatables on their balconies!

It DOES happen at ALL resorts...I am guilty guilty guilty and really don't care. We've decorated $600/night Contemporary concierge rooms (including our balconies), AKL concierge, Caribbean Beach and you can bet I'm bringing a 6ft tree with all the trimmings, lights, clings and garland with us to the All-stars this holiday. They even have a decorating contest at Fort Wilderness every year.

Saying that we shouldn't decorate is like trying stop bad "tourist" fashion in the parks...everyone has the right to be individual. Our rooms are our oasis from the craziness of the parks. Whatever makes us feel at home is what will be with us. Anyone who has gone on the Disney ships can tell you that more rooms have door signs than not. It's a part of the Disney culture now. One not to be gone any time soon.

...on a personal note...to the person that made the "maybe its a value thing" comment. You are no better than anyone else because of where you choose to stay and to make a comment like that is just ignorant. People choose resorts for a multitude of reasons and I find it insulting to be suggested less because of staying at a "value" resort. When given the choice in planning our trips, my first thought is about WHERE is best for us. The All-Stars have the best busing service in my experience and THAT is why we will stay there...not for the price. This is the exact reason I will not stay at the Yacht and Beach Club resorts where this mentallity runs rampant.There are hundreds of loving families enjoying the value resorts each week and I'll be proud to be one of them Christmas week pirate:

[amgangi]

For those of you who have stayed at AKL and decorated, are the exterior doors to the rooms wood or metal? I made a couple of magnets to adhere :D

[greenpea89]

I am neither for nor against window decorating and to be honest I haven't given it a lot of thought but I do see a big difference between decorating the inside of your room with a Christmas tree or birthday/anniversary/happy vacation decorations and the decorating of windows and doors. I also think that mousekeeping placing a few stuffed animals in a window is very different from clings, blinking lights, and posters printed off of a computer that are placed in a window, or giant doors signs.

I also don't see a big difference between the joy you receive by celebrating your special event with window decorations and those that celebrate by having a party in their room, those that allow their children to excitedly race to the elevator early in the morning, or those that use the pools until late at night. None of these things bother me but I know that others may be disturbed by them so we try not to do these things. I think it's basic courtesy and when we stay at Disney we are in environments with large numbers of people that spent the same amount of money as we did to stay in the same resort so it's important to try to be courteous and respect the feelings of other guests.

I do think that as these decorations become more and more elaborate that Disney may feel the need to step in and regulate the situation.

Since taste is such an arbitrary and personal matter and people really seem to love decorating their windows and doors I think that the resorts should offer window decorating packages for sale at each resort - themed to the resort of course - with different characters or concepts depending on the celebration (sort of like the buttons - general, first visit, birthday, anniversary, etc.). It ties into the new Disney theme this year in addition to providing an additional revenue steam for Disney. This would also allow Disney to choose items that would not damage the window/ door surfaces or paint in the rooms while at the same time please all of their guests by enhancing the theming of the resort and, at the same time, tactfully remove the potential of some of the more garish displays to possibly infringe on another guest's experience. I think it's a win-win.:goodvibes

[tw1nsmom]

I am neither for nor against window decorating and to be honest I haven't given it a lot of thought but I do see a big difference between decorating the inside of your room with a Christmas tree and birthday/anniversary/happy vacation decorations and the decorating of windows and doors. I also think that mousekeeping placing a few stuffed animals in a window is very different from clings, blinking lights, and posters printed off of a computer that are placed in a window, or giant doors signs.

I also don't see a big difference between the joy you receive by celebrating your special event with window decorations and those that celebrate by having a party in their room, those that allow their children to excitedly race to the elevator early in the morning, or those that use the pools until late at night. None of these things bother me but I know that others may be disturbed by them so we try not to do these things. I think it's basic courtesy and when we stay at Disney we are in environments with large numbers of people that spent the same amount of money as we did to stay in the same resort so it's important to try to be courteous and respect the feelings of other guests.

I do think that as these decorations become more and more elaborate that Disney may feel the need to step in and regulate the situation.

Since taste is such an arbitrary and personal matter and people really seem to love decorating their windows and doors I think that the resorts should offer window decorating packages for sale at each resort - themed to the resort of course with different characters or concepts depending on the celebration (sort of like the buttons - general, first visit, birthday, anniversary, etc.). It ties into the new Disney theme this year in addition to providing an additional revenue steam for Disney. This would also allow Disney to choose items that would not damage the window/ door surfaces or paint in the rooms while at the same time please all of their guests by enhancing the theming of the resort and, at the same time, tactfully remove the potential of some of the more garish displays to possibly infringe on another guest's experience. I think it's a win-win.:goodvibes

Great post! I think this really sums up what I was thinking.

[memphismovin]

You know...I think most of my shock in this thread has come from the fact that we are on a DISNEY board. How is it that self proclaimed "disney" people are the ones having this ridiculous debate? I always thought that if anyone had a problem it would be first time guests or school/sports groups not really understanding the climate of Disney park goers. Certainly not other people who spend hours and hours soaking in every bit of Disney info as many of us do. I can honestly say reading this thread is the first time I've ever even heard of people being offended by other's personal decor. Disney is a group experience...the people around you at every turn are what make Disney so special. I've often thought while staying during very low crowd levels how boring it would be if it were always like this. While walking onto rides is great what would it be like to sit alone for a parade. Enjoying how others experience Disney is part of the fun and that includes room/window decor. I think everyone who has a problem with the decorating needs to take a step back and remember where YOU are. This is not a private retreat to an unknown island. This is the happiest place on earth and I think that embracing a tradition of families decorating their windows can only add to the magic. And not by cookie cutter Disney "approved" decor...there should be no rules outside of family appropriate and non-damaging items.

I'm sorry, but as someone with a permanently packed suitcase full of Disney decorations for any holiday we might spend there, this topic really gets under my disney skin. lol Can't we all just take a breath and appreciate that we can spend time with our families in such a beautiful way? :grouphug:

[memphismovin]

For those of you who have stayed at AKL and decorated, are the exterior doors to the rooms wood or metal? I made a couple of magnets to adhere :D

The doors are metal just like the other resorts. Just keep in mind that they put 4ft african shields on each door so your space may be a bit limited :thumbsup2

[Todd&Copper]

I can't imagine personally wasting the luggage space with decorations, nor taking the time to bother putting doo-dads up in the window, but I don't really care if someone else wants to do it. I personally think it is tacky, but I also find capris, Crocs, and lime green clothing tacky but am not about to suggest we ban everything just b/c it is tacky.

[dburg30]

I'm a DVC member so yes, I think that gives me the right to decorate my room and the windows for my daughter this X-mas. Just keep walking by and don't look...:mad:

Why would being a DVC member give you more of a reason to decorate? I just became a DVC member also, and my 205 points are 'worth' .5% of some unit somewhere on ALKV 2 property. Not .5% of the property, 1/2 or 1 percent of unit 101A, whatever that is.

I believe it's called common sense.

The reason we do it is to give back some joy and to make our room a little different than the others. It turns a stark expanse of stucco, steel and glass into home. Plus it's real easy to find our room.

It's similar to why people decorate their work space, personal touch.

But why do you automatically assume that it's giving joy to others? Because it's your idea?

I can't believe you are actually comparing a naked lady to WDW. :lmao: Really?

The point is that Disney is a magical FAMILY friendly place. Your comments about not caring if it's someone's birthday or not are not in line with what WDW is all about in my opinion.

I've never decorated a window (yet) but I don't see any problem with it as long as it is cleaned up when you are finished. If someone wants to make their family's stay a little more magical, then let them.

I'm off to start designing my window clings for my stay in January. And yes...I will remove them when I leave. :wizard:

OK, so maybe the persons billboard was a little out there, but the point still exists, why just because you like it, does it mean that it has to be on display for everyone to see? And dont use the 'dont look at it' thing. I'm also paying to be at that resort, to enjoy DISNEY'S theme, not yours. Why should I have to 'just look forward' so I dont have to look at your window? I want to see the theme around me, not just in certain areas, and bottom line, unless your decorations fit the theme, you could indeed be taking away my enjoyment that I too paid for.

Also, do you not think that Disney should offer this service...because they do...you can call the Disney Florist dept. and for a fee they will come decorate your room.


Does it ruin the look if they come do it or just if I do it myself?

Do they decorate the windows or just the room? I have NO problem if you want to decorate your ROOM, inside where you are staying. And actaully I dont get why you wouldnt decorate inside instead of on the windows and doors anyway. If you are in your room, and you've decorated your windows and doors, you arent enjoying them. You are just exposing people on the outside to them.
Mousekeeping has decorated our windows on (if I remember correctly) every one of our trips. The kids always love to see what they have done. Stuffed animals in the windows, or towel animals, whatever. We have not done it but we always leave it. I think it's cute. Until discovering DIS, I assumed all the windows we saw were done by Mousekeeping. (We never have seen any lights or anything that I can recall.)

I've seen very few windows that mousekeeping has done that use tape and clings, and lights and such. Sure I've seen little towel animals sitting on the ledge. But that's not something that detracts from the theme. Any thing they do is meant more to be a suprise for you on your return to the room, and IMO isnt really meant to be kept up the whole time of your trip.


With all that said, I really dont care. I dont like a lot of them because I do think they look cheap and tacky, but I'm not going to lose any sleep over them. I actually feel sorry sometimes that I know people went to a lot of trouble to make them, and are proud of them, but they sometimes just dont look all that good. But, alas, so long as that person is happy, I guess that's what's important. But I do think they should put them inside and look at them the whole time they are in the room and see if they feel the same at the end of their trips as they did at the start :)

[Baltazar]

But why do you automatically assume that it's giving joy to others? Because it's your idea?

I don't have to assume, last trip we were on the first floor and every time we opened our door, people felt the need to tell us how great our window was.

We'd hear kids outside the window going mommy this or mommy that.

So it was a resounding success.

[edit] holy cow, a 6 page thread on window decorating. :)

[mana_liz]

Why would being a DVC member give you more of a reason to decorate? I just became a DVC member also, and my 205 points are 'worth' .5% of some unit somewhere on ALKV 2 property. Not .5% of the property, 1/2 or 1 percent of unit 101A, whatever that is.



But why do you automatically assume that it's giving joy to others? Because it's your idea?



OK, so maybe the persons billboard was a little out there, but the point still exists, why just because you like it, does it mean that it has to be on display for everyone to see? And dont use the 'dont look at it' thing. I'm also paying to be at that resort, to enjoy DISNEY'S theme, not yours. Why should I have to 'just look forward' so I dont have to look at your window? I want to see the theme around me, not just in certain areas, and bottom line, unless your decorations fit the theme, you could indeed be taking away my enjoyment that I too paid for.


Do they decorate the windows or just the room? I have NO problem if you want to decorate your ROOM, inside where you are staying. And actaully I dont get why you wouldnt decorate inside instead of on the windows and doors anyway. If you are in your room, and you've decorated your windows and doors, you arent enjoying them. You are just exposing people on the outside to them.

I've seen very few windows that mousekeeping has done that use tape and clings, and lights and such. Sure I've seen little towel animals sitting on the ledge. But that's not something that detracts from the theme. Any thing they do is meant more to be a suprise for you on your return to the room, and IMO isnt really meant to be kept up the whole time of your trip.


With all that said, I really dont care. I dont like a lot of them because I do think they look cheap and tacky, but I'm not going to lose any sleep over them. I actually feel sorry sometimes that I know people went to a lot of trouble to make them, and are proud of them, but they sometimes just dont look all that good. But, alas, so long as that person is happy, I guess that's what's important. But I do think they should put them inside and look at them the whole time they are in the room and see if they feel the same at the end of their trips as they did at the start :)


Last time I checked the window was part of MY ROOM...so I can decorate if i choose...


Since the decorations are DISNEY...and it's DISNEY WORLD...they do fit with the theme of DISNEY WORLD.

Seemes to me that you do care since you took the time to reply to quite a few other posts...if your really don't care why post a comment at all.

[Luvamouse]

You know...I think most of my shock in this thread has come from the fact that we are on a DISNEY board. How is it that self proclaimed "disney" people are the ones having this ridiculous debate? I always thought that if anyone had a problem it would be first time guests or school/sports groups not really understanding the climate of Disney park goers. Certainly not other people who spend hours and hours soaking in every bit of Disney info as many of us do. I can honestly say reading this thread is the first time I've ever even heard of people being offended by other's personal decor. Disney is a group experience...the people around you at every turn are what make Disney so special. I've often thought while staying during very low crowd levels how boring it would be if it were always like this. While walking onto rides is great what would it be like to sit alone for a parade. Enjoying how others experience Disney is part of the fun and that includes room/window decor. I think everyone who has a problem with the decorating needs to take a step back and remember where YOU are. This is not a private retreat to an unknown island. This is the happiest place on earth and I think that embracing a tradition of families decorating their windows can only add to the magic. And not by cookie cutter Disney "approved" decor...there should be no rules outside of family appropriate and non-damaging items.

I'm sorry, but as someone with a permanently packed suitcase full of Disney decorations for any holiday we might spend there, this topic really gets under my disney skin. lol Can't we all just take a breath and appreciate that we can spend time with our families in such a beautiful way? :grouphug:

Amen to this Memphis!:thumbsup2 ITA

I can't imagine personally wasting the luggage space with decorations, nor taking the time to bother putting doo-dads up in the window, but I don't really care if someone else wants to do it. I personally think it is tacky, but I also find capris, Crocs, and lime green clothing tacky but am not about to suggest we ban everything just b/c it is tacky.

And yet I also agree with T&C...

To each his own, if it doesn't hurt me and isn't offensive to people (tacky not withstanding), fine. I for one am happy to see people so thrilled to be there. :cheer2: But I'd never consider putting anything up on our window or door myself. I may hate wine, but it doesn't make me get all huffy when others drink it. Well, unless they get drunk and spill it on me, but that's another thread...

[RNtheRN]

It wuoldn't be so bad if they hung $50 all over the place. I might even enjoy it. :cool1:

[eeyoresnr]

popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::

[Deb & Bill]

For those who choose to decorate, you probably should not use tape or thumbtacks or paint or anything that could damage the painted or finished surface. Some of the photos on this thread used clear packaging tape which could remove the paint from the surface if not careful. Rather than risk damaging the wall surface, why not just stick with the clings or suction cups?

[aristocats_lover]

There is a certain type of Scotch tape that is completely clear called "gift wrapping" tape and comes off very easily without residue. Without any residue. Not "oh maybe you just can't see it but mousekeeping can residue", but NO residue! Once more, NO RESIDUE.

As for mousekeeping, they don't clean up the tape anyways. Every time I go to put up my decorations, I have to take down someone else's tape first! Not that I mind, but this whole "poor mousekeeping" stuff is just plain incorrect.

And yes, I always take mine down completely and clean up.

[Praise2Him]

I always take some "Goo Gone" just in case there is some residue, but never have to use it. I've also heard that nail polish remover works as well.

[Deb & Bill]

I always take some "Goo Gone" just in case there is some residue, but never have to use it. I've also heard that nail polish remover works as well.

Don't use nail polish remover on painted or finished surfaces. It will remove the finish. Just like it removes the nail polish.

[Praise2Him]

I was thinking of the windows, but that's good to know - thanks!

[TinkerBrie]

I can't imagine personally wasting the luggage space with decorations, nor taking the time to bother putting doo-dads up in the window, but I don't really care if someone else wants to do it. I personally think it is tacky, but I also find capris, Crocs, and lime green clothing tacky but am not about to suggest we ban everything just b/c it is tacky.

Capri's are tacky? Really? :scared:

[mandymommy4]

If you don't like the tacky decorations at the values and mods than just stay at the deluxes, they don't have windows that face out to decorate!

Someone did make a good point about how you can't make a place with huge bowling pins and big wheels MORE tacky! :rotfl: :thumbsup2

I honesty have never seen anyone do anything tacky on the GF balcony's besides a string of light on the inside of their room.

I just don't get why someone would spend precious park time decorating windows???? :confused3

[aristocats_lover]

I just don't get why someone would spend precious park time decorating windows???? :confused3

Well, in most families not every single person does the unpacking. Usually mom unpacks, so then dad and kids can decorate the window (and not be in her way!). Or, mom can do so while kids are napping, etc. I usually do it while my husband brings back food from the food court or brings in the luggage from the car. It's not hard to find 5 minutes.

[Candikayne]

My kids enjoy unpacking and hanging window clings on our window at the CBR. They are so proud when when the window is finished.

It's funny....we are returning in May 2009 to the Poly and I was a bit sad that we would not have a window to decorate.

I think the decorations add a bit of interest.

As a person that has stayed at a deluxe and a moderate, I like the relaxed environment of the moderates. Sometimes the deluxe resorts can feel a bit stuffy and uptight. But both resorts do have something unique to offer.

My kids love decorating the window....and we don't plan to stop using our window clings any time soon.

Didn't know it was such a big deal!


PS...I think Crocs are tacky too.....but I would not question anyone's preference to wear them. It's not that serious.

[Candikayne]

If you don't like the tacky decorations at the values and mods than just stay at the deluxes, they don't have windows that face out to decorate!

Someone did make a good point about how you can't make a place with huge bowling pins and big wheels MORE tacky! :rotfl: :thumbsup2

I honesty have never seen anyone do anything tacky on the GF balcony's besides a string of light on the inside of their room.

I just don't get why someone would spend precious park time decorating windows???? :confused3

No precious park time wasted over here!
We can get our window decorated faster than it takes us to unpack. I have four kids that get it done lickety split!

[Leanne1977]

I am amazed that people are bothered by this to be honest!:confused: When I'm at Disney I am far too busy enjoying myself to be worrying about what anyone else is doing.:cool1:

I enjoy seeing the windows decorated and have added my name to the Dis lists a few times. We also decorated our window last Sept for Halloween and it looked great! Mousekeeping would rearrange things for the kids too which was fun for them.

Life is far too short to be bothered by this sort of thing.:goodvibes

[Candikayne]

I agree that decorated windows do look tacky. People now use the writing paint....is it really necessary???? (also hear that it dosent always come off well) I do think that what mousekeeping did is cute, but its not something you would leave for the week you are there. I have a DS & DD, but we would much rather enjoy the magic that Disney has provided than ghetto up the place.

I do decorate my window....and I don't think I make the resort look like the "ghetto". And trust me.....I know what a ghetto looks like. I was not raised in the safest neighborhood in Brooklyn.....if you get my meaning.

When we decorate our window.....my girls are so excited to be in Fl. The last thing on their mind is making the resort look like trash.

But you are entitled to your opinion.....just as I am entitled to mine!

[swald91]

It was because of that washable marker they used.



Well, I'm not a fan of POP or ASM because I happen to think the resorts look cheap and gaudy. But we stay there because the kids like it.

Who knows about the message board. I wouldn't go that far. And lights only at Xmas. We put magnets on the door to match our Halloween theme for MNNSHP. But the heat kept making them fall off Maybe the board had the same problem?



The kids love to walk around and look at the windows. But we've never actually stopped and walked up to one. We just casually walk by and look.

Not sure why the board was off the door. I know it wasn't b/c of heat-the door opens to the hall. I signed my name to it and that was the last I saw of it. Not sure if it was magnetic-seemed pretty sturdy when we signed it:confused3

[aristocats_lover]

Not sure why the board was off the door. I know it wasn't b/c of heat-the door opens to the hall. I signed my name to it and that was the last I saw of it. Not sure if it was magnetic-seemed pretty sturdy when we signed it:confused3

People have reported magnet boards being stolen before, so that is a possibility as well.

[princess jackie]

I love decorating the room! We just started doing it this past year. I couldn't tell you if my window was tacky or not but I loved it anyway. About a month before we go the kids and I start planning out the window. It adds to the anticipation. We put everything into a folder that slides into my carry on and doesn't take up much room. I use the gift wrapping tape that leaves to residue but I also pack a small bottle of windex to clean the window after I take everything down. Having the window decorated also helps identify which room is yours among the 10,000 that look the same.

[TinkerBrie]

Having the window decorated also helps identify which room is yours among the 10,000 that look the same.

Now there is a good point!:thumbsup2 No one needs to remind me that the rooms have #'s!!! :scared: I still think it is a really good point!

[RFrank9504]

I suppose to OP would like to also say Seasons Greetings instead of Merry Christmas. We decorate because WE like it-its fun for us and our kids. I clean my windows good and proper before I leave. In fact, the last trip staff even congratulated me on job well done. We pay the same fees you do to take a vacation we are entitled to have fun with it. Get over yourself. Its people like you that take the fun out of everything. Nothing else to chat about so lets complain about something-thats why I stopped posting for a while-its all negativity on these boards. Its Disney-lighten up and have some fun.

[DisneyMommyMichelle]

Oh how sad some people can be. We decorate because it's fun! Maybe people that don't want places to be touched by other people should just stay home. sometimes it's amazing the things that get people in a bunch!

No time wasted as husband and I decorate when the children have been put down for the evening. I have met some great people through the door signs! Some I am even still in contact with :)

My kids love being able to tell which door is ours when they are walking down the hall.

((GASP)) we decorate our door at the Mod and Deluxe resorts too! :faint:

[disneymom2one]

Not to change the subject, but we find the moderates every bit as much "for the kids" as the values. And well ... the deluxes too. For our family, there is nothing magical about the values (other than Pop - at times). That's just our opinion of course. There are great reasons to stay at the values but you can find kid friendly resorts in the moderate and deluxe categories too - from great pools to fantastic kid activities.

As far as room decorating, we do inside and not out. That's our choice as well. I think some of the decorating is "dorm like" and not my thing at all but as long as WDW allows it, I don't complain.


I haven't gone through all this thread, but I find interesting. I for one am going to be decoration my window. We are celebrating...2 birthdays, our first DW vacation, and Christmas. Just as I would decorate home for Christmas, I want to decorate at DW. Also, and teh biggest point, I am staying at a Value Resort. Not that they are CHEAP or any less better than any other resorts. I want to stay there because it is much more geared towards kids. (ASmovies) If I were staying at CBR or CSR or ANY other resort I can totally understand. It has an adult feel. We were going to go with CSR, but switched because this is about the kids more than for us. They would get the magic a lot more at ASmovies.
I also think that sometimes you get in this DW where you feel as though everything must be done. I have been in it...and I've tossed my schedule and DLX DP just to go and relax and enjoy. This being said, some windows are beautiful and festive and some aren't. If you don't like your neighbours Christmas decorations you can't go up to them and complain. Yet you pay a mortgage.
See, Im on both sides! lol
Hope everyone gets the trip they wish for and find happiness in how others make their happiness. There just isn't enough 'magic' in the world today so be patient with others while they make some for themselves. You don't know, maybe they had a loved one who just died and they did it for themselves. You just don't know...
Everyone, HAPPY DISNEY WORLD VACATIONS!!!:banana:

[ryanshana]

popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn:: popcorn::


LOL I was thinking of posting the same thing. This is funny reading. I didn't realise it was such a big thing I have only seen one or two door vinyl things I thought it was cute. I don't think I personally would do it but I will def be looking out for them.:thumbsup2

[ryanshana]

oh this was a really old post...but it was a funny read

[Lilolvr]

oh this was a really old post...but it was a funny readIts still in season though.

[NH0402]

Very interesting thread. I enjoy decorations, especially the towel animals the Mousekeeping staff makes and places in the windows to welcome guests back from their day at the parks (at least that has always been my take on them). Personally I had to decorate both my home and my MIL's home (inside, outside, and Christmas trees) in a very shortened time span so I could be ready for our Dec 12th departure to Disney, I have no desire to decorate another room this season! Don't mind if others decorate, don't mind if others do not decorate......On the other hand, do dislike rude, offensive folks who leave their better judgment and their manners at home when traveling to Disney World. We have all paid to enjoy our time at WDW, no matter which resort we choose. Peace on Earth and Happy Holidays to ALL.

[macraven]

i don't decorate my window at the resort.
it has nothing to do with the reasons others have mentioned in why they don't decorate.

it's because i'm not artistic in any way.......and lazy.....:laughing:

i always take LGMH with me to the motherland.

when i do see a decorated door/window, and only if it has a statement of being a diser, i leave one of my LGMH by the door for them.

i have ended up meeting some lovely people by doing that.

i just put a little note on the mickey head and tell them i stopped by to see their decorations.
a few times (on a later date), i have seen my mickey head in the window with the displays.

[L107ANGEL]

Decorate, don't decorate, do what makes you happy!!!! For crying out loud only here can we get a war :rotfl:

[momimouse27]

Using your logic, if you were driving down I4 and there was a billboard of a naked woman you (or your kids) wouldn't have to look so what's the big deal of it being there? Your logic suggests that you just look away and it's no big deal. We both know that's nonsense.

I am waaayyy late on this discussion, so forgive me if I'm being redundant.

First of all, I have driven to Disney 24 times over my lifetime. And ever since I can remember there have been these awful, tacky filthy billboards advertising nude cafes on the I-4 corridor. I'll never forget when my kids were younger I would cringe every time we passed one because I knew one day they would ask me why someone would go to a cafe nude. :confused: I hated them but I did and still do ignore them. They'll never take them down and there's nothing I can do about it.

And yes, I will be decorating my room at the AS Movies next week. It won't be overdone and tacky, but my kids think it's fun. We paid lots of money for our vacation and if the kids want to put up a few snowflakes and stick a Dumbo in the window I don't see how that's hurting anyone else. In fact, we enjoy looking at what other have done. I think it enhances the magic of Disney, not lessens it.

If you see a room with snowflakes and a Jonas Brothers poster, that'll be us.:santa:

[bookgirl]

I don't think it's bothersome, when I was on a cruise tons of people decorated thier doors...:confused3

However I do have to agree with one thing....those tackey tackey cling things...ick hate them even at home I wouldn't use them. However I would never stop someone from playing

[Keegansmommy]

We hung balloons and streamers up in our window on our last trip to celebrate my mom's b-day. Why? it was the 1st b-day she celebrated since my dad passed away. He always made her b-day special. If decorating our window could bring a little bit of that to her in the midst of her saddness, then I was going to do it. Yes we actually hauled streamer, balloons, and such in our carry-on to add our own little bit of magic. If other people didn't like it, oh well.

[Harlie]

Decorate...or don't whatever...but as someone that worked in hotel housekeeping departments to put herself through school....at least 50% of you that claim you clean up are probaly lying:lmao:

Now don't get all defensive and say that you are not a liar, it won't make matters worse or better or make me think you are a saint:worship:

The problem is that these mousekeepers by standard only get 20- 30 mins to clean each non-suite room> I have only seen people use window paint at hotels...in my case here in Canada they have been usually high school sports or bands tour, they take a lot of time to clean up! The window clings to leave behind a dirty window, and as does the gift wrap tape (I know as I decorate my windows at home for Halloween and Christmas and use them) so these hardworking people probaly clean alot of window paint in a day by those that don't clean after themselves. That is not fair.

To me it is a pay it forward kind of thing not to decorate and to leave the rooms in imaculate shape with stripped beds and bagged recyclables and bagged garbage. Its a lot of work for me but if it saves the mousekeeper 15 mins in my room it kind of makes up for the messy rooms. I also tip.

Isn't disney all about paying it forward?

Those that make the window messes and don't clean it up are making an unpleasant day for a mousekeeper....to me that is worth having the fun banned....as nice and fun as the decorating seems, it is soooo not worth the time and effort to make someone elses day more difficult in the end:confused3

[catinthehat35]

I'm saddened by the fact that people are actually upset or annoyed at those of us that choose to decorate our windows of the room that we paid for. I mean, are the few mickey heads and a birthday banner worth all the complaining. I am not asking you to stop and take pictures or to even double take while walking past. If it's not your thing then move on! We recently stayed at POR and I think I only saw one other window decorated other than ours. I am pretty sure that my few decorations were not bothering anyone. I am with the other posters who said that if mousekeeping doesn't have a problem with it, then it's likely the decorating of windows will not end anytime soon. The way I see it, something is always going to bother somebody. We go to Disney for the theme parks, characters, restaurants, magic, not for looking at windows!

[aristocats_lover]

Decorate...or don't whatever...but as someone that worked in hotel housekeeping departments to put herself through school....at least 50% of you that claim you clean up are probaly lying:lmao:

Now don't get all defensive and say that you are not a liar, it won't make matters worse or better or make me think you are a saint:worship:

The problem is that these mousekeepers by standard only get 20- 30 mins to clean each non-suite room> I have only seen people use window paint at hotels...in my case here in Canada they have been usually high school sports or bands tour, they take a lot of time to clean up! The window clings to leave behind a dirty window, and as does the gift wrap tape (I know as I decorate my windows at home for Halloween and Christmas and use them) so these hardworking people probaly clean alot of window paint in a day by those that don't clean after themselves. That is not fair.

To me it is a pay it forward kind of thing not to decorate and to leave the rooms in imaculate shape with stripped beds and bagged recyclables and bagged garbage. Its a lot of work for me but if it saves the mousekeeper 15 mins in my room it kind of makes up for the messy rooms. I also tip.

Isn't disney all about paying it forward?

Those that make the window messes and don't clean it up are making an unpleasant day for a mousekeeper....to me that is worth having the fun banned....as nice and fun as the decorating seems, it is soooo not worth the time and effort to make someone elses day more difficult in the end:confused3


As I have said before, I have taken down others tape etc before putting up my own decor, so mousekeeping isn't doing that stellar of a job on window cleaning anyways. :rotfl2: That being said, I do feel that paint or markers is too much because it can leave residue.

Also, I don't understand how tape and clings are making your windows dirty? :confused: Maybe you should get the window clings storage book from Current that keeps them clean and flat until the next year. I love mine! :love: Not to mention anything from a cling or tape would come off with windex, and those windows should be wiped with some windex after being covered in teeny tiny fingerprints, do you not agree?

And at my job I have to do all sorts of extra work for people, even above and beyond my job description. Do I whine and cry about it? No. Because that's life. Either suck it up and do it or go find a new job. :headache:

[Harlie]

As I have said before, I have taken down others tape etc before putting up my own decor, so mousekeeping isn't doing that stellar of a job on window cleaning anyways. :rotfl2: That being said, I do feel that paint or markers is too much because it can leave residue.

Also, I don't understand how tape and clings are making your windows dirty? :confused: Maybe you should get the window clings storage book from Current that keeps them clean and flat until the next year. I love mine! :love: Not to mention anything from a cling or tape would come off with windex, and those windows should be wiped with some windex after being covered in teeny tiny fingerprints, do you not agree?

And at my job I have to do all sorts of extra work for people, even above and beyond my job description. Do I whine and cry about it? No. Because that's life. Either suck it up and do it or go find a new job. :headache:

See that is the thing....cleaning the windows is not part of the standard daily room cleaning for the housekeepers, unless it is really messed up with paint or dirty finger prints. As far as I remember it was part of a weekly cleaning list performed by maintance or in my hotels case the night maids. In our hotel it was done once or twice a month. The night maids would do all 24 floors window then change all 24 floors of shower curtains and then change all 24 floors drapes and then start back at the windows.

I live in a very cold climate in winter (when I am decorating my windows at home) and yes the look dirty after you are done, nothing windex won't cure for sure.

As I said housekeeping by north amerrican standards have only 20 to 30 mins per regular room. It works out to be about 16-18 rooms in a full day. If you are not done by the time quitting time you stay on your dime. If you have children in daycare that usually means you will have to pay your daycare a late fee on top of that. So if a housekeeper has to spend 10 to 30 mins scrubbing a window left behind with window paint (window paint in my mind is the bigger issue then clings and tape) they will not clean the rooms following that room as well to try and play catch up if you understand what I mean.

Hotels rooms may look clean...but they are really really gross. Take a black light to one... I dare you. Nobody likes to think of these things though, especially on vacation.

I have seen windows decorated at DLR. I thought it was really cute. It is not something I would waste my time doing. I am really not for or against them. I just don't like how people claim they clean them when the problem is that not everybody does clean up after themselves, and I don't think that is fair or considerate.

[Tiki Room Fan]

LOL Gotta love this thread!! :rotfl: I had a great time reading both sides of the issue. I agree that some extreme decorating looks tacky, but I don't find it distracting or that it cheapens the place or ruins the ambience for us. We don't go all out decorating our windows, but I do stick a few LGMH's in the window and not with tape, I either balance them between the ledge and the wooden blinds, or you can slip them into the window frame itself in some rooms. A few Diser's have noticed them (the reason we put them in the window in the first place; to identify us/our room as members of the Dis Boards) and acknowledged by hanging LGMH's with their Disboard name on them, on our door knob. I've done the same to rooms where I've noticed the LGMH's. It is a great way to meet up with other Disers staying at the same resort at the same time. It was a lot of fun to walk back to your room and find a LGMH hanging on your door and seeing who it was from. In fact, last time we were at Disney, (Sept/Oct 2007) when we came back to our room most nights, I'd walk the entire property checking each building, each door for any LGMH's that might be hanging and when I'd spot one, I'd put one of mine on their door knob. It was awesome!! :thumbsup2

[justtobeme2]

I find this really funny. I never have decorated and I never will but I don't mind other's decorating their windows. In fact it lets me know the people in those rooms are happy to be there and having a good time. This reminds me of something my grandmother said a long time ago, she said "Have you ever noticed that people with smaller houses decorate their houses for Christmas for happiness and joy and with kids in mind but most people with large houses decorate their houses so people can see what great houses they have? I'd rather have the small house filled with love and big colored lights" so that's what we had.

I think it's halarious about the "tacky and ghetto" statment...tacky? haha you are in the land of a mouse with big ears who wears red shorts and you are going to talk about tacky? And how about a swimming pool that's a gawdy replica of a Aztec pyramid? (Give me some tacky and Disney ghetto)...hahaha

[momjilly]

I could care-less if people decorate but its just like Christmas decorations...some are tacky & some are tasteful. But WHO CARES!

[NYTiz]

let me say this first. we dont decorate but i love the idea of it and we might do it this time.[[15 days :goofy:]]
i cant believe that people are making such a big deal over a window. i mean please... is it that big of a deal? people are just enjoying themselves and having a good time with their kids and getting into the disney spirit which i completely understand. ive only seen one or two windows that were decorated and honestly i think it looks better when you add personality to a blank door/window. having said this.. i dont think that people should use the window paint. thats over-doing it and the only thing i think is wrong.
if you have such a problem with people getting into the spirit, then dont stay in a disney resort. stay outside of the world. b/c nobody wants a bad attitude from someone while theyre @ disney b/c they dont like the windows they decorated.
:goofy:

[kadesha]

Maybe if it's too difficult for you to avoid the window decorations you should stay offsite. As you said, it doesn't happen anywhere other than Disney! I think it's great that families decorate. And now with the Celebrate theme, I imagine that it will happen more and more! :D

[Tiki Room Fan]

I remember once seeing on TV, I forget what channel or show it was, but the person on the show was driving around Fort Wilderness to each of the campsites and showing all of the Christmas decorations they put up around their campsites and one or two of the families were bragging how they've been doing it for so many years. I think decorating the resort windows is just an extension of that kinda thing. I'm sure if Disney truly frowned upon it, they would strictly enforce it and just not allow it. It's obviously easy to control as all they'd have to do is walk around and find the "offenders." I just hope Disboarders continue to put up the lime green mickey heads, etc. to identify themselves. I really enjoy meeting other Disers. :goodvibes

[SwtpotatoLa]

I think it's neat the way everyone decorates at the Value Resorts. Otherwise, the place looks like a dorm.

[DisneyDork712]

Hehe... We were going to decorate our windows last time, but once we got there... No way was I going to spend Disney time in the room when there was all of Walt Disney World to be explored! lol

[Scrubba2]

:cool1: :thumbsup2 http://i649.photobucket.com/albums/uu212/scrubba-2009/WDWDec2008015-1.jpg

[Jennygt]

:confused3 Um, Huh, I don't get this, if this is an issue then you have way too much time on your hands, I can't even belive I read this thread lol!

[BrerRabbit_fan]

I really wanted to decorate but didn't have the time or energy.

[lacrosse_lady72]

I don't really like when people bring stuff to decorate their windows. But stuff they have picked up at WDW doesn't bother me at all.

MNSSHP wristbands to show you went..... a picture of you and your family at CRT..... stuffed animals..... none of these things bother me at all.

I have seen dry erase boards on doors with a list of Disers who have passed by, :upsidedow whatever floats your boat.

[Trissy]

I've not really seen much window decor and we are almost always at CBR. I think it would be neat at the holidays, like you would expect to see at the houses on the block. Keep it tasteful people.

[heaven2dc]

I'm on the fence on this one. I haven't stayed at a value resort and am only guessing it occurs there more than the deluxes or moderates. I can see where it may bother someone if they are not looking to stay at a "dormitory" style atmosphere. I think the only ones who do decorate their windows are those who visit the Disboards (and similar boards) and they are hoping someone else from the Boards takes notice.

I did decorate my windows at BWV at Christmas with snowflakes and little Mickey clings for my grandson's first visit but you really couldn't see them from the Boardwalk. I was going to string lights on the balcony and put up a big lime green Mickey head but then changed my mind. I thought it would cheapen the Boardwalk's atmosphere esp with the Boardwalk view I had.

[MidgeHadley]

It's not something I've ever done or thought about doing. But I really don't care if other people do it. If I had young kids maybe it would be something I would consider. Especially if we were there around Christmas or something.

[katybugsmom]

I never thought in a million years people would be so outspoken about the decorations! I don't like everything people light up or blow up for Christmas, but I'm not about to stop and give them my opinion! I decorate my family's resort window and door each time we go. It is usually Disney-themed anyway so for me it's extending what Disney is already trying to do. My kids look forward to seeing what I'm going to put up for our next trip. I guess my decorating comes from being an Early Childhood teacher for 20 years. To me it adds to the excitement for all the children vacationing at WDW. We always leave a message board for fellow DIS members and others to leave us messages. We've never had a single obsene message left and my children love to read the messages each night when we return from the parks.
I agree that everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but if people want to decorate I say go ahead and do it!!! :thumbsup2 It's all in fun and after all, that's what Disney's about isn't it?!?!:wizard:

[disneycrazy2004]

I never thought in a million years people would be so outspoken about the decorations! I don't like everything people light up or blow up for Christmas, but I'm not about to stop and give them my opinion! I decorate my family's resort window and door each time we go. It is usually Disney-themed anyway so for me it's extending what Disney is already trying to do. My kids look forward to seeing what I'm going to put up for our next trip. I guess my decorating comes from being an Early Childhood teacher for 20 years. To me it adds to the excitement for all the children vacationing at WDW. We always leave a message board for fellow DIS members and others to leave us messages. We've never had a single obsene message left and my children love to read the messages each night when we return from the parks.
I agree that everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but if people want to decorate I say go ahead and do it!!! :thumbsup2 It's all in fun and after all, that's what Disney's about isn't it?!?!:wizard:

Could not agree with you more. I haven't personally decorated our window but think is cute when people do so. Our kids always put the cute animal towels they find in the room on the window and I think is great. And I don't really understand why would people go to Disney and always find something to complain about. Just enjoy your trip and don't criticize what everyone else is doing.Whatever people do on their vacation is their own business and if they like doing it - more power to them. That's my opinion anyway

[kittycat9]

I guess if people want their windows and doors to look like a discount store display - more power to them, as long as it doesn't impact other people at the resort (ie. lights shining in to other rooms, etc). I do think disney should impose a fee for people that opt to do this, because of the inevitable impact on housekeeping, and potential damage on doors and windows from tape, markers, general clean-up, etc. I also agree with a previous poster, that disney should maybe consider window packages, and not allow people to bring in their own (just to ensure that proper materials are used).

[DebRMN]

mousekeeping put our few souveniers on the ledge. I almost walked right past our room thinking, "oh look guys they have the same XYZ you do" LOL

[katybugsmom]

I guess if people want their windows and doors to look like a discount store display - more power to them, as long as it doesn't impact other people at the resort (ie. lights shining in to other rooms, etc). I do think disney should impose a fee for people that opt to do this, because of the inevitable impact on housekeeping, and potential damage on doors and windows from tape, markers, general clean-up, etc. I also agree with a previous poster, that disney should maybe consider window packages, and not allow people to bring in their own (just to ensure that proper materials are used).

You do need to be "smart" about what you are decorating with and be sensitive to Mousekeeping and other guests. I have never put up lights, but the way ASMO's is set up it wouldn't bother anyone anyway. I always clean our window so that Mousekeeping doesn't have to do anything to it. I also make sure I don't use anything that would leave a residue. I don't think a fee should be imposed unless someone leaves a window in a mess or leaves the stuff up and Mousekeeping has to clean it up. I decorate our window in a Disney theme anyway, so I don't think it ruins the look of the resort, rather it compliments where we are.
Bottom line-if you're going to decorate you need to be responsible. :thumbsup2

[disney*mom*82]

We are going to WDW for Christmas and I WILL be decorating the windows. We always put some of our Disney toys in the windows anyways, but we are bringing a few things such as lights, clings, mickey heads, small tree, and toys. It will be done in a tasteful manner and not too much for other guests, we are not decorating our home and feel that if you are paying for your room, you can decorate as you want.

[maxiesmom]

I guess if people want their windows and doors to look like a discount store display - more power to them, as long as it doesn't impact other people at the resort (ie. lights shining in to other rooms, etc). I do think disney should impose a fee for people that opt to do this, because of the inevitable impact on housekeeping, and potential damage on doors and windows from tape, markers, general clean-up, etc. I also agree with a previous poster, that disney should maybe consider window packages, and not allow people to bring in their own (just to ensure that proper materials are used).

It is not "inevitable" that someone doing some decorating impact housekeeping. I do decorate, but use mostly window clings and suction cups to hold my decorations up. And I always clean it up before we leave.

I don't mind my window looking "like a discount store display". And if you don't mind yours looking plain and uninteresting, then we should both be happy.

[Scrubba2]

Love this thread! It was a thread just like this that made me start decorating a couple of years ago!! :rotfl:

We have decorated at CBR, CSR and ASM so far! 3M makes great removable hanging products! They really come off clean (the products have improved from past years!) That being said, I think the resorts should charge the guests who leave behind a mess on a window.

To the OP, I honestly don't care one tiny little bit that you think it looks tacky!

I will be looking very tacky to you no matter what when I am skipping through the parks squealing with delight with my tiara (or other fun hat/ears) Mickey crocs, and sequin tops!!
Life is waaaay too short. I am busy having a blast and going to WDW. I think that deep down In your heart you are jealous and want to play, too.:banana::laughing: You can 'ya know! When you see me I will give you huge genuine smile!!
We should have DIS decorating contests with many categories such as kids under 10, adults over 60, most hand made etc...after all it IS a form of folk art! What is bad about that?:grouphug:

[goofy4tink]

I guess if people want their windows and doors to look like a discount store display - more power to them, as long as it doesn't impact other people at the resort (ie. lights shining in to other rooms, etc). I do think disney should impose a fee for people that opt to do this, because of the inevitable impact on housekeeping, and potential damage on doors and windows from tape, markers, general clean-up, etc. I also agree with a previous poster, that disney should maybe consider window packages, and not allow people to bring in their own (just to ensure that proper materials are used).

You know...I've decorated my window, at POP, with Mickey and Pooh window clings that were season appropriate...Halloween time. I've put a lime green poster up in another window at POP with my DIS screen-name on it. I have brought Christmas lights to put on my window at BWV. This year??? It will be a light-up Mickey head that goes in the window. I don't think it looks like a 'discount store display' anymore than someone's home during the holidays does. It's just not that big a deal. It does absolutely no harm to anything. Of course, there are always going to be those who go over the line...using tape and markers and then not cleaning up after themselves...and that's not right. In fact, when I leave, my windows are probably cleaner than I found them. I wash them down myself before I put anything on them, then wipe them down after I'm done.

[jeniamt]

Love this thread! It was a thread just like this that made me start decorating a couple of years ago!! :rotfl:

We have decorated at CBR, CSR and ASM so far! 3M makes great removable hanging products! They really come off clean (the products have improved from past years!) That being said, I think the resorts should charge the guests who leave behind a mess on a window.

To the OP, I honestly don't care one tiny little bit that you think it looks tacky!

I will be looking very tacky to you no matter what when I am skipping through the parks squealing with delight with my tiara (or other fun hat/ears) Mickey crocs, and sequin tops!!
Life is waaaay too short. I am busy having a blast and going to WDW. I think that deep down In your heart you are jealous and want to play, too.:banana::laughing: You can 'ya know! When you see me I will give you huge genuine smile!!
We should have DIS decorating contests with many categories such as kids under 10, adults over 60, most hand made etc...after all it IS a form of folk art! What is bad about that?:grouphug:

This cracks me up that this thread even exists but now that I know about it I will be decorating our windows this trip! Seems like a good idea so when the kids are running up to the door they think is theirs they will know for sure by the personalized windows.

If you think the windows bother you, beware of the DCL. Disers go crazy on there decorating their door. So fun, its whole part of the planning for us to decide what to create and hang on our door.

[goodboy851222]

I've actually never seen windows decorated. We've mostly stayed at the Wilderness Lodge. Maybe people don't decorate there? Maybe I'm just too busy to notice? We're heading back to the World in August. I will keep my eyes open for window decorations.

[goodboy851222]

:happytv::happytv::happytv:

[*sarah*]

Last trip was the first time I'd stayed on Disney property so I had no idea people decorated. But after getting the DISigners on here to make me some pretties and seeing other people pics, we are going to decorate. If my son has to spend over a week away from home, I might as well cutesy up the place and make it as cozy as I can for him.

[Trackey79]

I have not read all ten pages so please forgive me if this has already been pointed out, but to the OP I would highly suggest you stay away from Fort Wilderness. Campsites all over the place are well decorated throughout the year there.

My family actually loves all the decorations and even go out just to look at what everyone has done. :cool1: To anyone who doesn't like it, sorry but the people who are decorating their space are paying the same as everyone else to rent those rooms and for those few days the rooms are theirs to decorate as they like!

[CanadianPaco]

Wow, who would have thought something as fun as a few lights and clings can cause just a discussion:happytv:

[jeniamt]

I have not read all ten pages so please forgive me if this has already been pointed out, but to the OP I would highly suggest you stay away from Fort Wilderness. Campsites all over the place are well decorated throughout the year there.

My family actually loves all the decorations and even go out just to look at what everyone has done. :cool1: To anyone who doesn't like it, sorry but the people who are decorating their space are paying the same as everyone else to rent those rooms and for those few days the rooms are theirs to decorate as they like!

We love seeing the lights and decorations at FW as well! When we have time, we love to head over there to see what everyone has done. Just adds to the magic for us! And for those who thinks it makes Disney look tacky... isn't Disney already a little tacky? That is its charm!

[Trackey79]

We love seeing the lights and decorations at FW as well! When we have time, we love to head over there to see what everyone has done. Just adds to the magic for us! And for those who thinks it makes Disney look tacky... isn't Disney already a little tacky? That is its charm!

Isn't it fun!! For Halloween they will actually do a golf cart parade of all the decorated carts and trick or treating for guest at the Fort. I think the home town feel at the Fort is part of what my family loves so much about it! :thumbsup2

[ice cube]

We decorate our room and window when we are there for our Christmas stay..hey its Christmas and without decorations it would be just wouldn't be the same...as for the OP and others who agree with the OP I personally would rather see window decorations than someone who puffs smoke from a cigarette while walking down main street after wishes and that smoke goes in my daughters face while I have her on my shoudlers..but thats for another time and place....:rolleyes1

[mommy2mrb]

we have stayed at POP the last two times and myDD put her towel animals and stuffed minnies in the windows....will be doing the same in March, plus I might make a sign since we are celebrating her 11th bday....not tacky in my eyes, just fun!!!

[GoofyBaseballMom26]

Ok, I haven't read all the posts but honestly I've never understood why people decorated either. Now mind you, I really don't care, if it makes them happy go for it. I've always wondered if they did the same thing when they go to the beach or somewhere else on vacation. and if not, why at Disney? But again.... let me say it again... it doesn't bother me, do what you want... I just think it's a little strange. (And I'm entitled to my opinion so don't jump on me please.)

[*sarah*]

as for the OP and others who agree with the OP I personally would rather see window decorations than someone who puffs smoke from a cigarette while walking down main street after wishes and that smoke goes in my daughters face while I have her on my shoudlers..but thats for another time and place....:rolleyes1

:thumbsup2 I AGREE!!

[PixieDustandEeyore]

I don't mind decorating and such, but the people next to us in September had signs with their names on it and they fell down ALOT. I fixed them whenever I saw them down (I know I didn't have to but im kinda OCD) ...if you are going to put stuff up at least make sure they arent falling and blowing infront of my door...I always felt guilty when I accidentally stepped on them. And they used Duct Tape that can't be good on doors that had been painted in the past 2 months

[*TheWigs*]

Also..have not read all 10 pages, but I LOVE to see the decorated windows! It just is a concrete image of how much fun people have in the Happiest Place on Earth! :thumbsup2 We have stayed at Pop and ASM before, but choose Contemporary now due to the convenience of getting to MK with small children...we are NOT "Deluxe Snobs" by any means, but I do truely HATE the buses! ;) We don't see much decorating at Contemporary and kind of miss the fun we had at Pop and ASM with the cool windows and the "surprises" from housekeeping. We haven't had that really FUN atmosphere at Contemporary...once the kids are older, I see us back at the values for all the "silly" Disney fun!! :cool1:

[MistressMerryweather]

I think it looks tacky, but it doesn't annoy me. :confused3

I do think if Disney World wanted window decorating, they would be capitalizing on it by selling stuff *galore* to decorate with in the gift shops...and they don't.

[myramsy]

I will be going to Disney over Christmas and decorating my resort window...if i am paying the money to stay there then a few window clings isnt going to hurt anyone.
Have a Merry Christmas :santa:

[kaetra]

I'm pretty sure if Martha Stewart went to Disney World she would decorate her window, and can you imagine how gorgeous it would be?

I love seeing ALL kinds of window decorations, they bring me lots of smiles! Thank you to all the people who put in the time and effort to decorate your resort "homes"! Many of your resort "neighbors" truly enjoy your little displays of happiness! :)

Magic and Wishes!

[sarahrip]

I don't mind my window looking "like a discount store display". And if you don't mind yours looking plain and uninteresting, then we should both be happy.

VERY well said!!!:thumbsup2:thumbsup2

[Christine9125]

When we were there is 2008, we had 3 rooms on the ground floor, right beside the hippy dippy pool at POP. We decorated all our windows and while sitting out by the pool could hear all the happy comments coming from the people who would pass by. There were some kids who were upset there windows did not look like that, but for the most part we had several people stop and look. I think it makes their day to see it.