Royal greetings, Nicki!
I'd like to extend a warm welcome to planDisney and thank you for bringing us your fabulous
Walt Disney World Resort planning question! First and foremost, congratulations on your upcoming wedding. I bet you are so excited to begin your
Happily Ever After, and what better place to celebrate than The Most Magical Place on Earth!? Nicki, I'm happy to help you prepare for a Walt Disney World Resort visit filled with wonder and enchantment.
I understand that you'll be getting married near the Walt Disney World Resort and hoping to enjoy a magnificent meal at one of the
Disney Resort hotels after the ceremony. Dining at a Resort hotel on property sounds like a practically-perfect way to celebrate your new marriage! Nicki, I reached out to some friendly Cast Members for clarification on this and was informed that only Guests who have booked a
Disney Fairy Tale Wedding may wear wedding attire on Walt Disney World Resort property. This rule exists because the Walt Disney World Resort has a strict "no on-site weddings" policy apart from events hosted by Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons. Therefore, I recommend changing into something slightly more casual (but still elegant and bridal) before you head to your restaurant of choice to avoid the risk of being denied seating.
Nicki, have you considered which restaurant you'd like to visit for your first meal as newlyweds? A few choices come to mind that would likely accommodate a larger group and provide a memorable experience for your magical milestone event:
- 'Ohana at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort features an outstanding all-you-care-to-enjoy dinner with stunning views of Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom Park. If you time it just right, you could even view the fireworks from your dinner table to cap off a most magical day!
- Jiko - The Cooking Place at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge offers Guests an exotic fine dining experience in the heart of one of my favorite Disney Resort hotels. After your meal, your wedding party can explore the stunning savannas on the property.
- Grand Floridian Cafe at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is a more casual and budget-friendly choice that offers familiar flavors in a family-friendly atmosphere. Be sure to snap a group selfie in front of the Walt Disney World Resort's flagship Resort hotel during your visit!
Nicki, remember that Guests can
make dining reservations up to 60 days in advance on the Walt Disney World Resort website, so I encourage you to set yourself a reminder! Also, if you're not seeing availability for a group of 10 on the website, consider having two members of your travel party book two reservations for five Guests each at the same/nearby times. Then, when you arrive at the restaurant, politely request that your parties be seated together. Although it's never guaranteed, I've had success with this in the past!
I hope you've found this information helpful, Nicki. I'm wishing you an unforgettable visit to the Walt Disney World Resort and a lifetime of magical memories with your sweetheart! If you have any additional questions, feel free to revisit us at
planDisney anytime.
Warmest wishes,
Lauren