How would this work?

[MickQuinn]

Hi

We are traveling in August as a party of 8. I've recently booked all of our table service meals for the trip. Some relatives that will at wdw for part of the stay have expressed interest in joining us for a few meals. If we are on the ddp and the relatives are not, how would this work? Do I need to try to rebook for a party of 11, or would they just try to book for 3 at the same time and request to get seated close? I've already found it difficult to get ressies now for a group so large.

Thanks for any advice.

 

[TDC Nala]

If you can, book all the meals for which you expect extra people for the party of 11. When you check in at the restaurant/the server arrives, you will be asked if you are on the dining plan. Make sure your server knows before you order who will be paying with dining credits and who will not be. They will split the check. Unless you are planning to book CRT or a dinner show (which are prepaid) it does not matter at the time of the reservation booking who is on a dining plan and who isn't.

If you cannot book for 11 you can try to book for 8 and 3 but you won't be guaranteed to be seated together. If you attempt to bring the extra three people in on your reservation for 8 they may try to accommodate you, but there is a chance that you will have to wait longer, or that, if the restaurant is already at full capacity, they will not be able to seat any extra people.

 

[Nadjalu]

Really you could do it either way.

The best way, obviously is to rebook for the correct number of guests in the party. If that isn't possible you can try to find a ressie for the extra number of people at the same time as you. Of course once you get there and you ask them to seat you together or close it may or may not be possible.
If they do agree you are probably looking at an additional wait time, even up to a couple hours.

Good luck and have a great trip!!