We were chosen once and it was incredible. I haven't talked about it previously though because I almost wished I hadn't known it was a thing before we got our invitation. There are some things that I think are valuable just because they are magical surprises. I know that's just me though. OP I loved seeing your pictures and your obviously ecstatic daughter.
I'd also hate to start seeing posts from people about how to get picked for the event. Kind of like they ask how to be chosen as family of the day at embarkation
Thank you for taking my comment as it was intended. I rewrote it a bunch of times trying to make sure it didn't come off as crabby. It is such a special thing, and DD still gets a huge smile on her face every time we talk about her big surprise. (Luckily she's 5 so she doesn't read DIS and it was all a shock to her.)We definitely didn't know it was a thing as it was our second cruise - although I was much smarter the second time around due to DISboards However, the night we were selected there was a second family and in talking with (and overhearing) CMs who were up there with us, that group had been "lobbying" pretty hard to be selected. I will never expect it again nor mention it to a CM, but we were very appreciative (and clueless) about being selected.
If you want to catch a character or two coming out or going into "hiding," camp out at the "cast members only" door next to Shutters on the Wonder or Magic. I am not sure about the bigger ships, but I believe there is a central source for all those princesses, mice, etc. If they are coming back from their assignment they sometimes can take a minute or two with you for photos, hugs, etc...they have done it with us several times.