So Disappointed...is there a chance for us?

[soccer mom]

We have a grand gathering planned for Dec 15-21 to celebrate our sons return from Iraq. There are nine of us, DH & myself, our four kids and three boyfriends/girlfriends (one will probably become a fiance on this trip!) I called in mid July to make the ADR's and I was only able to get one of our seven ADR's with all of us at the same table!! This is hugh for me to not have us all together for dinners! What are the chances of the individual restaurants being able to make this work for us when we check in for dinner? Also, couldn't get the Safari/Dinner they offer for grand gatherings. What's the deal? Is this just hype to get us there, but not really able to accomodate us? I tried to be flexible on days and times. We don't want to be split up!

Phew...thanks for letting me vent. I've needed to say all that for a while!

 

[jayhjay]

I have no experience traveling with a large party, but I have heard even if they officially split up your reservation, most places can still put the tables together when you actually get there. I know that probably doesn't make you feel better in the meantime, but at least there is a chance it will work out if you do separate tables.

If I were you, I'd get your ADRs asap even if it means separate tables on the ressie. Then keep trying until you get there to get better ADRs. At least that way you are into the restaurant rather than risking ending up with nothing. Good luck!

 

[4mykids]

I agree; get those ADRs ASAP even if you have to split the party. I would keep trying as the previous poster mentioned. You may get something better. If not, arrive early and see if the restaurant will work with you. I can understand wanting to dine with the entire family, but it is better to at least have some decent ADRs even if you have to sit apart! Have fun! And a HUGE thank you to your son for his service!!!!

 

[lynninpa]

Our GG was a party of 9 last year and we were also given no promise to be seated together. However, we were always seated together at one large table everywhere we ate. Are you saying you only made one ADR? If so, please call back as soon as possible and try and make more. For a party of nine, it seems we were only given a choice of first or last ADRs (4 or 5ish or 9ish for dinners) Good luck! And no matter what, I am sure you will have a magical family adventure!

 

[ceroarty]

Some of the rest. just don't have tables that can accomodate bigger groups. I called Disney on my 180 mark and have quite a few reservations that we will be at diferent tables. Now last year we did the same thing but was always sat next to each other if not together. Most of the times they would put tables together. They usually always try to accomodate you if they can.

22 more day until our Grand Gathering

 

[dburg30]

Yep, call and get them made!!!! Hurry.. GO GO GO !!!

What are you still doing here!!!!!






AND: A big THANK YOU from me to your son also!!!

 

[disnut8]

I totally agree with the others about calling now and getting your reservations even if you are told your party will be "split". That's the way they have to do it since they book by tables. For example, I booked a party of twelve for LeCellier and my party was "split". Three tables of four. Which were right next to each other and when I checked in, I was given the option of having the tables pushed together or left apart. I had them pushed together.

When you make the reservations, make sure you say you want the reservations linked in the system. You shouldn't have any problem at all. If you are still worried, stop by the restaurant before your seating time and double check everything.

And please pass on to your son my thanks for him serving his country. And to your whole family because being deployed just doesn't mean it affects the military member. It affects the whole family.

Have a great time at Disney World.

 

[Jaime]

We had to book seperate tables for our last trip but were seated together when we got to the restaurant...since it is so important to you when you get to WDW I would drop by the restaurants or call and just make the request directly to them.

We couldn't get the Safari/Dinner they offer for grand gatherings for Dec either but are going to the Mickey's Magical Breakfast and the Illumination Reception and Dinner? Did you try either of them...I haven't been to them yet but have heard wonderful things about both experiences...the only problem I had was I had to pay for them in advance and they will credit back my card when I show my DP card.

Have a magical vacation!

 

[mainstreetmickey]

Ditto the posters above. Make the ADRs understanding you'll be split, but most of the restaurants go the distance to get you seated together (or in close proximity at worst). I went with a group of 15 and we were seated together 4 meals and right beside each other 3 meals. Now, stop reading this and go call!