How much would Disney make by using TOTWL for private parties?

[dizfan]

With all the discussions about how to keep Top of the World Lounge available to DVC members, I wondered how much they would be able to make by renting it to private parties?

Seems to me the only way it stays available is if DVC members regularly match or exceed what they can bring in for private parties.

How much do you think Disney would make per night by renting it for private parties? (Assuming they would charge a basic fee and also sell appetizers and beverages).

 

[DebbieB]

Usually private parties are like weddings, it's a per person charge with a minimum. And the charge is based on what you want to have - types of appetizers included, alcoholic drinks included, etc. They are usually not pay as you go. There's also a time limit, they could probably have more than 1 a night, charging more for fireworks time. I've seen them have receptions in The Attic at BWV in the afternoon. I've been to alot of business conferences, there is typically a "welcome reception" the first day or evening. I've never had to pay myself.

 

[crisi]

Receptions at The Attic, I believe, start at $75 a person. I recall there was a minimum fee, but the way the website does pricing now for rental venues is different and I can't find it - but I want to say it was around $4k a night.

 

[tjkraz]

If you really want to know it would be simple enough to call and ask.

Given that DVC has already stated the lounge may be inaccessible on certain nights due to scheduled events, I can guarantee it's available and prices have been set.

 

[ssawka]

Ok, my question is how is the TOTWL funded? Is it self generating or does any part of MFs go towards it? If any MFs goes towards it, shouldn't revenue from it's use go back into BLT minus the catering fee?

 

[dizfan]

Ok, my question is how is the TOTWL funded? Is it self generating or does any part of MFs go towards it? If any MFs goes towards it, shouldn't revenue from it's use go back into BLT minus the catering fee?

TOTWL is not part of Disney Vacation Development, so MFs are not being spent on it. In the BLT contracts, it states that the Lounge is not part of DVC and Disney can do what they want with it.

So far, they have allowed DVC members to use it exclusively.

When I made the poll, I was curious how much Disney charges for private parties. It seems like DVC members would need to spend that much at TOTWL to keep it.

 

[disneynutz]

TOTWL is not part of Disney Vacation Development, so MFs are not being spent on it. In the BLT contracts, it states that the Lounge is not part of DVC and Disney can do what they want with it.

So far, they have allowed DVC members to use it exclusively.

When I made the poll, I was curious how much Disney charges for private parties. It seems like DVC members would need to spend that much at TOTWL to keep it.

It is a sure bet that the DVC won't keep it. Right now it is on loan as a marketing incentive.

Bill

 

[ssawka]

It is a sure bet that the DVC won't keep it. Right now it is on loan as a marketing incentive.

Bill

I don't think DVC will "loose it" per se, but I do think it will be closed on occassion for private parties.

 

[pinnocchiosdad]

Keep in mind that CR is a convention resort. I see it as a definite perk to companies chosing a destination to hold a conference or industries hosting a convention.

 

[disneynutz]

Whether we want to admit it or not, the DVC doesn't give Members anything for free. DVD pays for "Welcome Home Wednesdays", the "Member Mixers", and the TOTW as a marketing expense.

They don't get anything for free from other Disney business units. Fast Passes, Gift Cards, Cruise Discounts are all paid for by the DVD Marketing Department. Even the AP discount is negotiated between DVD/DVC and Parks and Resorts.

Bill

 

[bobbiwoz]

We bought into BWV without knowing that The Attic had originally been for DVCers use. I would have been disappointed, but probably not angry if I had ever used it and then found it to be taken away.

However, I think the people who purchase BLT now do expect the lounge to continue to be used by DVCers, just as people who buy at AKV expect there to be animals on the savannahs in spite of what could happen as mentioned in the POSs. Both of these things could be lost to us.

Bobbi

PS. I was much more upset when DVC took the real glasses and mugs out of studios than I would be if we lost the lounge. I know many don't feel the way I do, but we are not night people and don't often go out for drinks.

 

[twinklebug]

It is a sure bet that the DVC won't keep it. Right now it is on loan as a marketing incentive.

Bill

Reports from those who are visiting the lounge keep repeating the same thing over and over: People go for the fireworks but don't stay. I'm right there with you on this thought Bill. If no one is buying from the bar, a measly $250 (just picking a number here) in liquor sales to DVC members per night would come through as $0 profit in Disney's pocket given that it needs to be staffed, stocked, cleaned and AC/heated.

I feel that TOTWL will be going over to the private function zone as soon as possible. It may be possible for DVC to rent it back for functions - if they feel like treating members. (Mid-August party anyone?) Taking this to another level, I can see the day when the observation deck is open, but the lounge locked up & lights off - reserved just for those private functions. We'll have our faces pressed to the glass showing our kids/grandkids while saying "I remember when they had this open for us."

As for how much does Disney charge for premium party space: It's anyone's guess unless you've actually called and priced out Disney space with a killer view. A standard hotel function hall in MA (south of Boston) will start at $400. My guess is multiply that by 20 as a starting point. (not voting)

 

[madthemouse]

$1.97

 

[dallastxcpa]

Food and beverage minimums for weddings at most WDW venues start at $100/person. So if the lounge has a capacity of 100 then $10k. That doesn't include the money they charge for lighting, floral, decorations, table center pieces, entertainment, photography, videography, etc, etc. So you can see how a party at the TOTWL could easily cost someone $20k or more.

 

[spiceycat]

that is part of the problem - it does not have the food areas - but that say - CR definitely does and it is what 5 minutes away.

so even with very little room for food at BLT with CR that is not a real problem.

so definitely can see it for parties.

dvc member staying at Blt should appreciate it NOW. on the basic that it will be gone shortly.