Hi Scott,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, and thank you for your question. Most importantly: happy, happy upcoming first birthday to your little Mouseketeer!
I love that you picked Chef Mickey’s for your magical celebration; Mickey and the Fab Five are so much fun to interact with, and you will get the most darling pictures of your birthday boy with the iconic characters! I checked with a Cast Member regarding your reservation time, and she assured me that, while the restaurant doesn’t take any more reservations past a certain time, you will be able to enjoy your meal and meet every character. If you have any concerns about the timing, please contact Walt Disney World Dining at (407) 939-1947, and they will be able to answer any questions you might have.
The birthday balloons are a little trickier; whether they are allowed is at the discretion of the restaurant, and may vary depending on a number of factors. I was advised that you may want to contact
Disney Floral and Gifts to order decorations to be sent to the restaurant; I was lucky enough to meet with a representative from their team, and they are able to do truly magical decorations, gift baskets, treats, and other personalized celebrations. Please contact them at (407) WDW-GIFT to discuss possibilities for your special celebration. They can deliver right to the restaurant or to your resort room.
One last thought for your celebration, Scott. My son recently had a pixie-dusted hair cut at
Harmony Barber Shop in Magic Kingdom Park, and they offer the sweetest “My First Haircut” package, which even includes commemorative Mickey ears. That might be a ONE-derful cherry on top of your son’s Disney birthday celebration!
Wishing you a magical vacation and celebration,
Robyn