Small Wishes Wedding

[izzie-wizzie]

Hello, this is my first post on the weddings-section of the DisBoards (sooo unbelievably exciting!!)!

My fiancé proposed when we were on holiday in Disney World last September, and after much consideration on whether to have our wedding at home in Scotland or in Disney, we have decided that we are definitely going to get married and have our wedding in WDW!!

Because we are looking to buy a house this year, we will have to wait a little while until the wedding so that we save a bit of money. However we have May 2014 in our mind.

Anyway – my question is! We are looking to have 12 people (including us) at the wedding, but looking at the Escape package it really doesn’t seem suitable as we want quite a bit more than what is included with this (I know you can add additions and customise the package but you have to wait until really short notice to confirm certain reception venues etc which is a bit scary considering how much money we will all be spending on flights etc).

The Wishes package seems much better – but I have read conflicting information that you need at least 20 guests to upgrade to Wishes. I know there will be a higher minimum cost for Wishes but I do think we will have enough add-ons etc that we would reach this, and all our guests will be staying on Disney Property for at least 10 days so the room night minimum shouldn’t be an issue either? Has anybody heard of somebody having a Wishes wedding with fewer than 20 guests? We would be looking for a ceremony, private catered reception and a wishes fireworks cruise.

My next question is looking at potential ceremony locations, we both have fell in love with Sunset Pointe but again I have read conflicting information on this – the first is that you are only allowed to use this venue between November – March? Is this still the case? I would prefer a May wedding but I would easily move this to March if we got this venue. Although I have also read that you can get married year round? However I am a bit concerned about it being too hot.

Also, I am worried that we are slightly over the capacity for this venue. Even though there will be 12 of us – 6 of those 12 will be standing (me, df, 2 x bridesmaids and 2 x best men) and 6 will be seating. Do you think they would be quite flexible going over by 2 people?

Sorry – lots of questions and so far in advance!! I hope someone can help me – you all seem so helpful (self-admitted-long-time-lurker!!!)

 

[Sarah28]

Hi Izzie, I have been reading your TR and I'm loving it so far! We too were also engaged in the world, and are contemplating a Disney Wedding but I have no idea where to start!

Unfortunately I don't have any help for you with your questions here (I just came on this thread to get some ideas and saw your post ), but I just wanted to say hi and hopefully we can help each other out along the way

 

[lurkyloo]

Welcome!

Hello, this is my first post on the weddings-section of the DisBoards (sooo unbelievably exciting!!)!

Anyway – my question is! The Wishes package seems much better – but I have read conflicting information that you need at least 20 guests to upgrade to Wishes. I know there will be a higher minimum cost for Wishes but I do think we will have enough add-ons etc that we would reach this, and all our guests will be staying on Disney Property for at least 10 days so the room night minimum shouldn’t be an issue either? Has anybody heard of somebody having a Wishes wedding with fewer than 20 guests? We would be looking for a ceremony, private catered reception and a wishes fireworks cruise.

Disney raised the minimum number of people required for Wishes to 20 fairly recently. Apparently they consider it quite difficult to meet the minimum expenditures with a smaller number, although there are stories of couples on this message board (especially those from the UK) who handily met them with small groups. Because a Wishes fireworks cruise does not count toward the minimum expenditure for Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings, you would have to spend quite a lot on your reception to meet the $12,000 minimum for a Wishes event. Disney will probably encourage you to have an Escape ceremony with a catered meal added on. However it never hurts to ask.

My next question is looking at potential ceremony locations, we both have fell in love with Sunset Pointe but again I have read conflicting information on this – the first is that you are only allowed to use this venue between November – March? Is this still the case?

No, but it can be extremely uncomfortable out there in the summer, so DFTW will probably encourage you to consider changing your date or location.

Also, I am worried that we are slightly over the capacity for this venue. Even though there will be 12 of us – 6 of those 12 will be standing (me, df, 2 x bridesmaids and 2 x best men) and 6 will be seating. Do you think they would be quite flexible going over by 2 people?

In the past they have been very strict about the number of people allowed at Sunset Point and Sunrise Terrace. Again, once you have a planner, you can talk to him/her about whether there is any flexibility, just don't be disappointed if they stick to their guns.

 

[izzie-wizzie]

Hi Izzie, I have been reading your TR and I'm loving it so far! We too were also engaged in the world, and are contemplating a Disney Wedding but I have no idea where to start!

Unfortunately I don't have any help for you with your questions here (I just came on this thread to get some ideas and saw your post ), but I just wanted to say hi and hopefully we can help each other out along the way

Awww congratulations to you both It's so exciting looking at everything, but it is all a bit daunting as well!

I'm sure I will eventually start a PJ but even I know over 2 years in advance is a bit too keen :

 

[izzie-wizzie]

Thank you so so much for all the information - it's really helpful and I really appreciate it

Welcome!

Disney raised the minimum number of people required for Wishes to 20 fairly recently. Apparently they consider it quite difficult to meet the minimum expenditures with a smaller number, although there are stories of couples on this message board (especially those from the UK) who handily met them with small groups. Because a Wishes fireworks cruise does not count toward the minimum expenditure for Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings, you would have to spend quite a lot on your reception to meet the $12,000 minimum for a Wishes event. Disney will probably encourage you to have an Escape ceremony with a catered meal added on. However it never hurts to ask.

Silly minimum numbers haha, fingers crossed we can convince our planner that we could meet all the minimums - I noted that the per person food and beverage spend for a dinner is $125pp - and we would be fairly happy to spend nearly double this per person as there would be less people.

No, but it can be extremely uncomfortable out there in the summer, so DFTW will probably encourage you to consider changing your date or location.

March may be cooler anyway - and statisticly less rain too - it does seem to make sense!

In the past they have been very strict about the number of people allowed at Sunset Point and Sunrise Terrace. Again, once you have a planner, you can talk to him/her about whether there is any flexibility, just don't be disappointed if they stick to their guns.

It sounds like it depends on the planner, and how lenient they may be!! The most important thing for us would be to have somewhere with a view of the castle so hopefully they would be able to have some other options if they couldn't do sunset point!

 

[tinkerbell 766]

Hi sweetie from a fellow Brit!!!
We live just over the border in Cumbria!!
Have you considered a Swan and Dolphin wedding? Since it will not be possible for you to have a 'Wishes' event due to the number of guests you will have, it may be a good alternative.
A S/D wedding is much more flexible as regards the different elements (eg floral, cake etc) and decidedly cheaper!!! It makes no specifications about guest numbers (either minimums or maximums) and offers a number of different locations.
There are very few elements that you can book with DFTW that you cannot have with a S/D wedding. You can have characters attend and take photos at any location around WDW in your dress (except in the theme parks - which even DFTW brides cannot do without booking a session with DPS). You are entitled to book a photographic session at any park, except MK, and could have your reception either at the S/D or somewhere else in WDW.
Please feel free to check out my PJ (link in my signature) and ask any questions.
There is also a specific thread for S/D brides at the top of the page!!
Good luck and happy planning, whatever you decide.

 

[Sarah28]

Hi Izzie, I have been looking over the DFTW website over the weekend, and I didn't think there was a minimum guests for Wishes, just a minimum expenditure (starting at 12k)?

I got this from the comparison tool link here:

http://disneyweddings.disney.go.com/weddings/florida/collection-comparison

Is this information out of date then?

 

[Sarah28]

argh just answered my own question, just found this:

http://disneyweddings.disney.go.com/weddings/florida/wishes/detail

"A lavish, custom celebration surrounded by loved ones can be yours with the Wishes Collection. A Wishes ceremony, available for you the couple and a minimum of 18 guests, includes a wide array of choices, so you can create the enchanting environment your heart desires. From your anticipated entrance down the aisle to your dramatic departure, your wedding will be exactly as you always dreamed it would be."

that's put me in the same situation as you Izzie, not sure if we can make that yet or not.

 

[izzie-wizzie]

argh just answered my own question, just found this:

http://disneyweddings.disney.go.com/weddings/florida/wishes/detail

"A lavish, custom celebration surrounded by loved ones can be yours with the Wishes Collection. A Wishes ceremony, available for you the couple and a minimum of 18 guests, includes a wide array of choices, so you can create the enchanting environment your heart desires. From your anticipated entrance down the aisle to your dramatic departure, your wedding will be exactly as you always dreamed it would be."

that's put me in the same situation as you Izzie, not sure if we can make that yet or not.

Aww I know I keep doing that too – reading it’s just a minimum expenditure and then reading it’s the expenditure AND minimum guests.

I keep getting myself a bit stressed and upset about it, but I have decided not to worry until I talk to Disney and discuss through my options about everything. As cynical as it sounds, I remember reading somewhere that Disney will make ‘any dream come true’ for a price and to be honest if it comes down to it I am more than happy to pay for another 8 meals that can be put straight in the bin if that’s what it takes to meet the minimum of 18 guests!! Also I am hoping that having a wedding mid-week may work slightly in our favour as well but I know there is no guarantees.

How many guests are you hoping to be there for your big day? We are looking for 10 guests and it seems to be so awkward as it is too much for Sunset Pointe and too little for a Wishes Wedding – Ahhh!

 

[izzie-wizzie]

Hi sweetie from a fellow Brit!!!
We live just over the border in Cumbria!!
Have you considered a Swan and Dolphin wedding? Since it will not be possible for you to have a 'Wishes' event due to the number of guests you will have, it may be a good alternative.
A S/D wedding is much more flexible as regards the different elements (eg floral, cake etc) and decidedly cheaper!!! It makes no specifications about guest numbers (either minimums or maximums) and offers a number of different locations.
There are very few elements that you can book with DFTW that you cannot have with a S/D wedding. You can have characters attend and take photos at any location around WDW in your dress (except in the theme parks - which even DFTW brides cannot do without booking a session with DPS). You are entitled to book a photographic session at any park, except MK, and could have your reception either at the S/D or somewhere else in WDW.
Please feel free to check out my PJ (link in my signature) and ask any questions.
There is also a specific thread for S/D brides at the top of the page!!
Good luck and happy planning, whatever you decide.

Thank you for so much information. I was looking into the option of a S/D wedding and like you say it seems a lot less stressful and much more flexible which is amazing – but I completely have my heart set on getting married at one of the monorail resorts!

 

[Sarah28]

Aww I know I keep doing that too – reading it’s just a minimum expenditure and then reading it’s the expenditure AND minimum guests.

I keep getting myself a bit stressed and upset about it, but I have decided not to worry until I talk to Disney and discuss through my options about everything. As cynical as it sounds, I remember reading somewhere that Disney will make ‘any dream come true’ for a price and to be honest if it comes down to it I am more than happy to pay for another 8 meals that can be put straight in the bin if that’s what it takes to meet the minimum of 18 guests!! Also I am hoping that having a wedding mid-week may work slightly in our favour as well but I know there is no guarantees.

How many guests are you hoping to be there for your big day? We are looking for 10 guests and it seems to be so awkward as it is too much for Sunset Pointe and too little for a Wishes Wedding – Ahhh!

Aww I know how you feel - I was just coming to terms with it thinking 12k sounded realistic for us, but after reading lurkyloo's post and re-reading the website seeing they've introduced minimum guest numbers

I have no idea on numbers yet as we are in the very very early initial planning stages. Like you, I think the Escape package doesn't really fit our needs so was hoping Wishes would be the one. You would think they would be more accommodating as your wedding party have further to travel and guest numbers and situations could change. Have you done any enquiring with Disney yet?

 

[izzie-wizzie]

Aww I know how you feel - I was just coming to terms with it thinking 12k sounded realistic for us, but after reading lurkyloo's post and re-reading the website seeing they've introduced minimum guest numbers

I have no idea on numbers yet as we are in the very very early initial planning stages. Like you, I think the Escape package doesn't really fit our needs so was hoping Wishes would be the one. You would think they would be more accommodating as your wedding party have further to travel and guest numbers and situations could change. Have you done any enquiring with Disney yet?

I've not enquired yet - I have read that you can enquire for a wishes wedding 24 months out, so I plan to give them a call in March and see what they say. Have you called / when you think you will call?

Are you planning on going out to WDW to do a Planning Session? I'm thinking of asking when they would recommend travelling out so that we can confirm we like all the venues we chose and do a full planning session.

I have completely fell in love with Jason Angelinis Photography as well so would hope to catch up with him and maybe do a pre-wedding photoshoot when we are out

 

[Deesknee]

Congratulations on your engagement! and .... my family will add to your guest #'s! Just teasing! Hopefully, if you explain your situation, they will either allow you to reserve your date ahead of time, or up to a wishes wedding. Either way I'm sure it will be beautiful!

 

[izzie-wizzie]

Congratulations on your engagement! and .... my family will add to your guest #'s! Just teasing! Hopefully, if you explain your situation, they will either allow you to reserve your date ahead of time, or up to a wishes wedding. Either way I'm sure it will be beautiful!

Awww bless!!! Hehe - Thank you so much.

Fingers Crossed!

 

[Chilly]

I had an escape wedding with 6 guests so 8 total, but did look into Wishes as it was before the 18 guest minimum and I was able to meet the then $10K Wishes minimum with no problems so it may be worth trying to talk them round.

 

[MrRomance]

You may be able to sweet talk DFTW to allow you to have a wishes wedding but my experience is that if there is a person minimum, you have to pay for that minimum whether you have the guests or not. For example, our reception, the venue is for a minimum of 10, they allowed us to have the venue with only 7 people, but we had to pay for 10 people with the food/beverage.

You have a couple of options that may work better for you.

1. Have an Escape wedding and arrange your own Disney Catered Event for your reception meal. We have done this for our reception and they've been great to work with on the whole.

2. Look at S & D weddings. They are cheaper and more flexible but for some people a S & D wedding isn't a "real Disney wedding" which they have set their heart on. Before I upset anyone (especially Joanne ;o) this is not my personal opinion, I actually think a S & D wedding is a lot better than a DFTW in some respects, but a view that has been expressed previously by other people.

 

[Msraye89]

You may be able to sweet talk DFTW to allow you to have a wishes wedding but my experience is that if there is a person minimum, you have to pay for that minimum whether you have the guests or not. For example, our reception, the venue is for a minimum of 10, they allowed us to have the venue with only 7 people, but we had to pay for 10 people with the food/beverage.

You have a couple of options that may work better for you.

1. Have an Escape wedding and arrange your own Disney Catered Event for your reception meal. We have done this for our reception and they've been great to work with on the whole.

2. Look at S & D weddings. They are cheaper and more flexible but for some people a S & D wedding isn't a "real Disney wedding" which they have set their heart on. Before I upset anyone (especially Joanne ;o) this is not my personal opinion, I actually think a S & D wedding is a lot better than a DFTW in some respects, but a view that has been expressed previously by other people.

What is an S & D Wedding??

 

[izzie-wizzie]

What is an S & D Wedding??

A wedding that takes place at the Swan and Dolphin Hotel

 

[izzie-wizzie]

You may be able to sweet talk DFTW to allow you to have a wishes wedding but my experience is that if there is a person minimum, you have to pay for that minimum whether you have the guests or not. For example, our reception, the venue is for a minimum of 10, they allowed us to have the venue with only 7 people, but we had to pay for 10 people with the food/beverage.

You have a couple of options that may work better for you.

1. Have an Escape wedding and arrange your own Disney Catered Event for your reception meal. We have done this for our reception and they've been great to work with on the whole.

2. Look at S & D weddings. They are cheaper and more flexible but for some people a S & D wedding isn't a "real Disney wedding" which they have set their heart on. Before I upset anyone (especially Joanne ;o) this is not my personal opinion, I actually think a S & D wedding is a lot better than a DFTW in some respects, but a view that has been expressed previously by other people.

Wow thank you so much for your e-mail – that is really quite encouraging that they may let us pay for extra guests that aren’t there as a way to meet the minimum number requirement. I know it’s still not a guarantee, but it is good to know that they have taken that approach in the past and they aren’t set against it!

With regards to the adding on a Disney catered event for a reception, this is also something I would consider and that is good to know they have been good to work with. However, I have read that you cannot book this very far in advance which would be quite a worry if everybody had organised their trip from Scotland to Florida and we couldn’t get the date!

Or is the whole date thing a DFTW policy? I just worry that I would phone Disney Catered Events and they would direct me to DFTW who couldn’t help and it might go around in a big circle!!

 

[Chilly]

Wow thank you so much for your e-mail – that is really quite encouraging that they may let us pay for extra guests that aren’t there as a way to meet the minimum number requirement. I know it’s still not a guarantee, but it is good to know that they have taken that approach in the past and they aren’t set against it!

With regards to the adding on a Disney catered event for a reception, this is also something I would consider and that is good to know they have been good to work with. However, I have read that you cannot book this very far in advance which would be quite a worry if everybody had organised their trip from Scotland to Florida and we couldn’t get the date!

Or is the whole date thing a DFTW policy? I just worry that I would phone Disney Catered Events and they would direct me to DFTW who couldn’t help and it might go around in a big circle!!

Before Jay (MrRomance) booked his Memories package and before they had the Memories package it was always Disney Policy that if you wanted a Disney Wedding you had to go through DFTW and Disney Catered Events wouldn't have anything to do with you unless you would forego wearing your wedding dress.

This seems to me to not work with the new minimums Escape weddings have if they want a catered event. I've also just read on another Disney wedding board that now Disney are saying that a DP won't trigger the minimum.

So inconclusion Disney change their mind every day and so who knows what they'll say when you want to book, it is very frustrating for new brides and I feel for you all.