Hi Janis,
Welcome to planDisney! Your planning skills are clearly outstanding. I love that you are taking the lead on planning for a large group!
Your instincts are correct - it will take some strategizing to make
advanced dining reservations for that large of a group. I normally divide our larger group up into smaller parties and then make dining reservations around the same time for the smaller groups. When we arrive at the restaurant, I ask if we can be seated together. Although not guaranteed, Cast Members have done their best!
With a group of 17, I would try three groups of four and one group of five. Or, you could try three groups of five and one party of two. You will need to select a different lead person for each dining reservation. And just leave the Guests on the reservation as Guests, do not select any names. Just remember, that if this strategy works, your credit card will be used to hold all of the reservations, so if you do not make it and/or forget to cancel, you would be charged any applicable fees. If this strategy does not work, you can select a few other individuals in your group with
My Disney Experience accounts. Have each of them actually try to make a reservation for one of the smaller groups. And then try to snag dining reservations that are within 15 minutes of each other.
Since you have some time, keep your eye on the
dining updates since news of restaurant re-openings will be there. As you may know,
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Review is still currently unavailable. Topolino's Terrace - Flavors of the Riviera has reopened and is still wildly popular, so you will need to try making those reservations as soon as your
dining reservation window opens. Right now, that window is 60-days prior to your arrival.
Janis, I also encourage you to consider different dining times...perhaps try a later lunch or an early dinner. Sending a little extra pixie dust as you continue to plan. We are so happy that you are going to visit a world of magic. And, remember, we will be in the midst of
The World's Most Magical Celebration. So, bring on the fun!
Magic and memories,
Donyell