Hello Melanie,
Thank you for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your important planning question. We love to offer our assistance and tips to help others make the most magical Walt Disney World vacations possible.
I am sorry to hear that you were not able to get an advance dining reservation for either
Cinderella's Royal Table or
Be Our Guest Restaurant. Both of these regal dining locations are among the most popular with guests, making reservations harder to get. However, this doesn't mean it isn't possible to snag a reservation closer to your vacation date. It may take a little extra planning and patience, but I've done it on many occasions. Cancellations happen very often, so if you are willing to call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463) or check online daily, you may be in luck! Lastly, many guests tend to cancel about 48 hours prior to the reservation time so they do not incur a no-show/cancellation fee.
Another thing to consider is dining at less popular eating times. For example, a late lunch in the early afternoon or an earlier dinner around 4pm or a later dinner around 8pm. With this flexibility, some of these times are more available than the more traditional dining times.
So, I hope this helps give you a little hope. Don't give up. May you have a magical trip making wonderful memories with your loved ones.
~Allison L