DCL Party Planning Thread (combined threads)

[wifeofgrumpy]

Y'all are doing better than me--I can't even get the House party site to load this morning!

Just read the past few pages--I haven't been on my house party site or this thread in a week so I didn't know all this was going on! It really is disappointing. I think I've been procrastinating because I've read what all everybody is doing and I wasn't doing all that much. I'm having problems getting people to RSVP and the people I know are coming, well, most of them would love to go but could never afford a Disney cruise. And most have also been shown cruise pictures and heard about it 'ti they probably don't want to hear it anymore! So I was just planning a simple party with friends and cruise food and cruise pictures everywhere and my bunch dressed in our DCL clothes and a video of "Disney Dreams" playing but I didn't really have any games or favors planned as I just couldn't see the hubbies coming sitting around playing Disney games. Oh! Which begs a question--are most of you inviting whole families? I had one friend disappointed it wasn't just girls, but I thought it would be easier to get folks here if kids and hubbies were invited and her response was "well, he's not going to come for a party like THAT" or some such nonsense. Oh, well, his loss. Back to the party--I live in a rural area with no Dollar Tree, no Disney store, no place that sells H2O products so was just going to make up cute bags with what they sent so this new (to me) news about the bags is pretty disappointing. I did want people to be glad they came and I didn't want to be embarrassed about throwing such a "strange" (to my people around here, anyway) party!

I was orignally going to invite the whole family, but figured I'd have problems w/ some of the dads getting excited about Disney, so I'm just having women. In my house if there's someplace I really want to go (Disney Cruise) my husband normally just goes along w/ it anyway, I'm the one that makes all the vacation arrangements. Figured if I could sell the wives on a DCL vacation then they'd take care of their husbands, and we know the children won't need any convincing anyway. Disney, ooh, every child I know loves Mickey Mouse.

 

[hyandui]

Well ok Disers, I will stick with the plans we've made. So lets party on. I just came up with an extra napkin that only has a small spot on it and 2 luggage tags that were never filled out, so we will haul out a thousand more pictures and make a DVD about the fun we have had. Let's Party

 

[barney4liz]

When we didn't know about the prizes we were just excited to be picked! Get that excitement back!

I agree that we had no idea what the specific content of the party package would be when we signed up.

However, before deciding to even apply to be a host I did research on the House Party website to find out how it worked, and I was very impressed with how excited hosts were about the things that the sponsors put in the party packages. That was a big influence in deciding to apply.

And then -- once we received the email about the FIRST DCL party package, I made sure all my invitees knew what was coming!

So I think feeling disappointed with the "revised" package is a normal reaction.

That said . . . we are definitely going to PARTY ON!! arty:

My co-hostess is bringing a real daquiri machine!! Our Party Mantra is "Why is the rum always gone?"

BTW, WHERE does the Party Mantra show up? It doesn't show up anywhere on our page.

We had already decided that it will be a "Ladies Night" event so I will be able to make it nice whatever shows up in the package.

 

[barney4liz]

Note: All entrants will get email confirmation before the two winners are drawn (on January 25th), so you'll be able to confirm that your name is in there!

The HP gurus are paying attention; this was added to the sweepstakes announcement.

 

[InstImpres]

HP definetly is listening...here's me email in case anyone didn't get it:

Questions and Answers On Your Party Package
Amidst all the excitement of the Disney Cruise Line House Party -- being selected, starting the party planning, entering the new "Share the Magic" host sweepstakes -- some hosts are looking for more information about their party package.

What is the package all about?
Your host party package has been designed to meet several goals. Some items are meant for you, the host family, to thank you for sharing the Disney magic with your friends. Some are meant to give you a head start on some basic party supplies. Some are meant to add to the fun during your party by providing prizes for our suggested party games. And some are meant to help you share more information about Disney cruises with guests who want to learn more.

How were the quantities of each item determined?
The number of items included in the party pack was based on two factors: the average number of families we expect most hosts to invite, and the purpose of each item.

Why did some quantities seem to change from earlier information?
Early in the party process, some hosts may have gotten incorrect information from House Party, before the party packages had been finalized. We apologize for any confusion this may have caused, and think that you will be pleased when you receive your package. (For a list of party pack items, log in and check out your Event FAQ.)

Can I get some extra items?
Party packages are standard for each host; unfortunately we are unable to provide extras.

What are the "special gifts" I've seen mentioned?
Included in your party package are two special gifts meant exclusively for party hosts:

a $50 on-board credit for your next Disney Cruise Line sailing

a custom Disney Cruise Line House Party character sketch
(This limited edition sketch was created exclusively for party hosts... a true piece of Disney magic, just for you!)



When will I get my party package?
Host packages are scheduled to ship this coming Wednesday, January 16th. All hosts should receive their package by Tuesday, January 22nd. Hosts who have not received their package by January 23rd should contact House Party

 

["Got Disney"]

Y'all are doing better than me--I can't even get the House party site to load this morning!

Just read the past few pages--I haven't been on my house party site or this thread in a week so I didn't know all this was going on! It really is disappointing. I think I've been procrastinating because I've read what all everybody is doing and I wasn't doing all that much. I'm having problems getting people to RSVP and the people I know are coming, well, most of them would love to go but could never afford a Disney cruise. And most have also been shown cruise pictures and heard about it 'ti they probably don't want to hear it anymore! So I was just planning a simple party with friends and cruise food and cruise pictures everywhere and my bunch dressed in our DCL clothes and a video of "Disney Dreams" playing but I didn't really have any games or favors planned as I just couldn't see the hubbies coming sitting around playing Disney games. Oh! Which begs a question--are most of you inviting whole families? I had one friend disappointed it wasn't just girls, but I thought it would be easier to get folks here if kids and hubbies were invited and her response was "well, he's not going to come for a party like THAT" or some such nonsense. Oh, well, his loss. Back to the party--I live in a rural area with no Dollar Tree, no Disney store, no place that sells H2O products so was just going to make up cute bags with what they sent so this new (to me) news about the bags is pretty disappointing. I did want people to be glad they came and I didn't want to be embarrassed about throwing such a "strange" (to my people around here, anyway) party!

I am also doing an all girl party so my friends can have a break from DH and kids and for my single friends they will have no kids or DH here so they wont feel left out.

As for the change in the package and the above e/mail.......I still cant see 12 napkins and uneven packages...that to me is poor planning on there part. And so be it that they e-mailed me and others the wrong info...there Bad...but the package is still lame.

I say yes lets party on of course ......but the blow was a good blow.

so for the op looking for H2O products..you can order them online and they have great sails and also so you have a Marshall's near you? Google Marshals stores and put in your sip and double check

I am going to go to the mall today to the Disney store and see what they have.

And what is this about copying napkins??? can Walmart make you napkins with that print?????

So lets move on from our pity party and re-group

 

[Verandah Man]

The following is what is listed on the FAQ section on the House Party website as of a few moments ago, I hope this helps those still planning to have a MAGICal and WONDERful party experience:


What is in my party package?
For the host
• (1) Iron-on Decal " Official Disney Cruise Director"
• $50 on-board credit for your next Disney Cruise Line sailing
• 1 custom Disney Cruise Line House Party character sketch
• Welcome Letter & Frequently Asked Questions

For the party
• (9) Where will your dreams take you brochure – a quick read on Disney Cruise Line
• (3) Posters- Studio Sea, Serenity Bay, Oceaners Club -use these to designate the different areas of the party
• (1) Package of party points - award these to the winners to help determine who guests the prizes
• (1) island music CD
• (16) balloons
• (36) Disney Cruise Line cocktail napkins
• (1) Disney Cruise Kids only CD – the kids will love this. 20 minutes of slapstick fun

Party Prizes
• (1) character plush
• (2) sheets of 8 tattoos
• (2) Disney Cruise Line posters
• (4) Peter Pan masks
• (1) Photo Album

For the guests
• (10) Activity Sheets (Cinderella II, Ratatouille, Return to Neverland)
• (4) Mickey ear bandanas
• (4) Pirate eye patches
• (20) Recipe cards
• (6) Disney Cruise Line Vacation Planning Kit
• (10) Disney Cruise Line Party Favor bags
• (6) Family Fun Magazine

 

["Got Disney"]

yes I was just there looking at that...they did change the napkins to 36...that is more like it....

It is nice to see that they were at least listening to us a little.

We knew that they were giving us a special hostess gift so looks like they kept the $50.00 OBC and the sketch.

Would still like to see them just make the "For the Guests" stuff an even 10 at least! its not like they are sending 10 towels or anything.

They also added a photo Album

 

[Mi3stooges]

Alright....36 napkins, now I'm ready to party!!! I will make my cd's and get those loot bags filled and make the very best of it!!!!!!

 

["Got Disney"]

wonder how big the party favor bags are??? any ideas?

 

[Mi3stooges]

Ya know, I'm wondering if the package of party points may still be the Disney Dollars. Could be...

 

[hyandui]

So I let my mouth get ahead of my brain, I had a very insightful phone call with a very smart young lady, When I applied to be a host it was without reguards of what items I would receive for having a party, I have been very blessed in life any have always had anything I needed, not always what I thought I needed.
So now that the mandatory fire drill is over lets get on with the party plans, there are allot of people out there who have never been on a Disney Cruise, and to answer a question that was posed to me, I had said I would take a picture of a napkin to Wal-Mart and get copies, I meant copies of the photo of a napkin, wallet size and hand them out. I know that sounds dumb but I bet there are mem out there who have bought a new wallet and still carry the inserted pictures in their wallet.

 

["Got Disney"]

Ya know, I'm wondering if the package of party points may still be the Disney Dollars. Could be...

Could be but why would they not say Will be interesting to see what we end up with if they will add more or not. I did just e-mail them to thank them for addressing the problem soooo fast

I also asked that if DCL could make the stuff all even up to at least 10.

Asked what size the goody bags are so we can have an idea if our stuff will fit in them...want to make sure that they are not like the small party goodie bags. you know ones that you can get a pencil and a piece of candy in.

don't want any more surprises unless they are a good ones

I also asked if they were going to enter guest names that are listed only on there sight? because my guests were having problems as some of you I have been e-mailing them from my personal e-mail and many names are not on the list.

I will let you know what I find out but don't take it in stone because we all know how that could go

 

[miatamel]

Well, I must be completely and totally loopy. I just checked my invite page and I have one on there confirmed for three with a blog post about being terribly excited and I have NO earthly idea who it is!!

ETA: OH! I see! I figured out how to go to my email page and now I know! For some reason she picked a strange random name to confirm??!!

 

[CarrianneB]

Well, I must be completely and totally loopy. I just checked my invite page and I have one on there confirmed for three with a blog post about being terribly excited and I have NO earthly idea who it is!!

I am not super excited about the houseparty features. They can definitely use some work. You can probably figure out who it is by going in to the guest manager section. That will tell you who has rsvp'd based on the names you gave them, not the somewhat indeciferable way houseparty reflects them on the front page.

 

[miatamel]

okay, so I'm trying to catch up with all you superprepared people: figuring I better get busy cleaning, preparing menus, decluttering and finally putting two cruises worth of pictures in some kind of frame or something for this shindig!
Here's my question: I've said a couple of times I wasn't really keen on playing silly games (hate those things at baby showers) but I see on the party page where it says they are sending prizes for "suggested games." Can someone tell me if I am just missing where they suggest these suggested games or do you think they will be in the party pack?

Oh! A couple of other things--was hoping for something to put on my front door. Christmas is over, Valentine's is too early (don't put up my heart wreath until Feb.) and my front door looks terribly naked. Thought about putting up one of the posters on the front door? Or maybe making a Mickey head wreath out of styrofoam covered in fabric and maybe making the red wave things out of foamboard to look like a DCL insignia? What are y'all doing? And while I'm on a roll--are DCL's colors red, black and white or red, NAVY and white? I can never quite be sure. Went shopping last week for party stuff and came home empty handed because couldn't decide whether I should do tropical colors, which are pastel-y, or DCL colors, which are primary. As in, tropical tableware or red, black (navy) or white? See, I'm just all tore up in confusion over here!!

Also, I wanted to do a Mickey ears cake--I'm thinking, ya know, it's a round cake pan and another round one with the ears cut out and some colored frosting. Anybody ever tried or seen one or is this a project, like many of my projects, that is all in my head and a complete disaster when I try to get it OUT of my head?

Oh! I'm ETA: Thought of something else. I have a STACK of Home Depot Mickey ears paint chips. I cut them out, put magnets on them and used them to cover our stateroom door last year. When I got home, I replicated the stateroom door on our refrigerator-so it's covered in ears, DIStag magnets, CC magnets, etc. But, I still have a stack of uncut chips. I'm thinking they would be cute for something--maybe name tags or just cut them out and lay around or use for some kind of game, like cards or something. Maybe labels for the food so folks would know what was what. I think there are a ton of clever uses for them--maybe y'all know of something else creative and chime in with some ideas.


Okay, that's all for now. Think I'm getting a wee bit nervous because I haven't been nervous about it before now and I gotta catch up on being nervous!

 

[Mi3stooges]

So I let my mouth get ahead of my brain, I had a very insightful phone call with a very smart young lady, When I applied to be a host it was without reguards of what items I would receive for having a party, I have been very blessed in life any have always had anything I needed, not always what I thought I needed.
So now that the mandatory fire drill is over lets get on with the party plans, there are allot of people out there who have never been on a Disney Cruise, and to answer a question that was posed to me, I had said I would take a picture of a napkin to Wal-Mart and get copies, I meant copies of the photo of a napkin, wallet size and hand them out. I know that sounds dumb but I bet there are mem out there who have bought a new wallet and still carry the inserted pictures in their wallet.

I sort of agree with you. I did not know what to expect. I do FEEL that there should be an even number of whatever it is that is given. I also feel that at one time they were only sending 12 napkins, that is an insult IMHO.
I am spending on my own a decent amount of money to promote Disney and they seem to have gotten off easy.

 

[BethA]

I am surprised at how quickly they sent out the new email. I guess they saw all the not so happy posts. We did not know what to expect when signing up, but I guess I thought we'd get napkins, plates, decorations, pirate bandanas or leis,--then when other things were listed on the site like the towels and beanies, etc. it seemed like a great idea. Luckily I ordered plates from an online company to supplement the package, and had had some things on hand to give for prizes. I thought they would send to you based on the number you invited, but I am surprised 10 is the average according to them. Why not send 10 of everything then? Can you give an eye patch as a prize??

I am pleased to still get the $50 onboard credit and will make the most of what they send, but from DCL I didn't expect them to be so cheap.

Do you think the vacation planning kit contains the new video? I had hoped to show that.

We have a lot of DCL and Disney items, so we are half decorated all the time for a party like this. I hope we can get everyone else as excited about DCL as we are.

Has anyone gotten an email about their registration for the contest? Would have been good to have the site confirm the entry.

I ordered some H2O items online to make up for lack of freebies

 

[lillygator]

do you think the $50obc can be applied to a cruise you have currently booked? We sail May 2008, that would be very nice!!

 

[Mi3stooges]

.........
Has anyone gotten an email about their registration for the contest? Would have been good to have the site confirm the entry.

I ordered some H2O items online to make up for lack of freebies

The site does state that emails will go out on the 25th to confirm your entry