Etiquette for Pin Trading?

[chanchiluv]

My kids and I are going to DLR in April and want to start pin trading. I know we supposedly can go up to cast members and ask to trade, but what's the etiquette behind it?

Far example, say I see a pin I like on one of their lanyards. Can I offer one of my pins to trade, or do they get to pick off of my lanyard whichever one they want? Is it true the CMs can't turn you down?

If someone approaches one of us who's not a cast member, can we refuse to trade if we don't like what they are offering?

What catch phrase to you use when approaching someone (CM or otherwise)?

Thanks in advance for your answers!

xo Linda

 

[Parkhopper]

I trade a lot with Cast Members. I wait (in line if need be) when they are busy doing something and then approach with a polite, "May I please see your pins?" They will trade any pin on their lanyard of your choosing for any pin that you choose to give (provided that it is a valid Disney pin of course). I trade much more in WDW so I don't really know if DL has CMs who wear lanyards of a different color who trade ONLY with children (ages 12 and under).

Suzi

 

[got2travel]

parkhopper's got it correct

Just ask to see the pins, never just grab. Since you're asking for guidelines I know you wouldn't, but I've seen many adults and children just walk up to CMs and grab their lanyards.

Anyway, you just look over their pins and let them know which one you'd like. You then figure out which of your pins you'd like to trade. The CMs will make sure it's a valid Disney pin (Disney stamp on back) and as long as they don't already have that exact pin on, then they'll trade with you.

Always take your pin off your lanyard and replace the back. Then hand it over palm up. This is so that neither of you get poked by the backs.

You can make up to 2 trades with the same CM.

I believe the kids only lanyards are green/teal. These are for kids 12 and under only. Often times I will have my son make a trade for me if I see something I like.

Other guests don't very often ask to trade with you, but some will. Just like with the CMs, you can ask to see their pins. Or sometimes we'll just ask if they are trading. They'll let you know if they are willing or not. But in these trades either party can say no.

 

[chanchiluv]

Cool! Thanks for the replies, guys! I think it will be fun for all of us. I didn't know that some CMs only trade with kids. I think that's sweet!

xo Linda

 

[got2travel]

Hi Neighbor....sort of....I'm up on the East Bay...Hercules/Pinole area.


Have fun with the trading, just know it's addictive. Just ask my son who is now begging for a pin briefcase for his over 300 pins.

 

[Brian_WDW74]

There is one other exception to the "Cast Members can't turn you down" rule (aside from trying to trade non-Disney pins, pins that are already on the CM's lanyard, or more than two pins in the same session). As stated in Disney's "Pin Trading Etiquette" flyer:

In addition to the 12 pins on Cast lanyards, some Cast Members may wear a "Showcase" pin. These "Showcase" pins are for demonstrations to our Guests and are not available for trade.

I've never personally come across a situation where a CM refused to trade a pin, but you should be aware of this exception.

BTW, you can download the Disney Pin Trading Etiquette flyer at http://eventservices.disney.go.com/files/Etiquette122004.pdf or pick one up at most pin trading locations in the parks.

*Brian*

 

[chanchiluv]

Thanks, Brian!!! That was great info!

xo Linda

PS: Got2Travel - Hi to you too! I'm kinda in the middle of the East Bay. I have a cousin who lives in Hercules. Nice little town.

 

[magicmom99]

I trade a lot with Cast Members. I wait (in line if need be) when they are busy doing something and then approach with a polite, "May I please see your pins?" They will trade any pin on their lanyard of your choosing for any pin that you choose to give (provided that it is a valid Disney pin of course). I trade much more in WDW so I don't really know if DL has CMs who wear lanyards of a different color who trade ONLY with children (ages 12 and under).

Suzi

We even traded a Universal Pin for a Disney pin! But they "retired" the Universal pin instead of putting it on their lanyard for trade.

 

[disneegrl4eva]

there are also alot of people who come soley to show off and trade their pins...they set up in certain areas and lay all their books of pins out..but be forewarned...some of them can get very nasty...I have had a couple of instances where they were very rude...I understand the lengths they go to preserve their pins and request you handle them a certain way...that is their right and I for one am not going to disrespect it...however, when you come at someone with a very snappy rude tone, then they have turned the tables and become disrepectful...so just watch out

 

[disneyluvbug]

When I went last year the CM had these carts at certain locations with A LOT of pins..it was fun having such a large selection..they had a rope line (but I never saw a line) and traded..it was fun.. I did order some off ebay for our upcoming trip..I think my DD4 will enjoy trading now.. You could have chosen one off teh CM or the cart thing..

 

[ssc7]

Some of the best trades my kids made were from the street sweepers and garbage can collectors! They didn't have lanyards. Their pins were around their waists on a yellow flap connected to their belts! They were the most polite and helpful of all! And they had the best stories too. Some of them had my kids favorite pins. I don't think many of them get their just dues for their jobs and love to talk! Be polite and you will be greatly rewarded! Good luck!