Here's How To Plan Your Dream Disney Wedding (And How Much It Costs), From a Fairytale Fanatic

Disney weddings are the epitome of enchantment, turning your special day into a fairy tale come true. As an editor and a devoted Disney fan, I am thrilled to guide you through the magical journey of planning a fairytale wedding with Disney Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons.

On average, Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons hosts thousands of weddings yearly at their global Disney Parks & Resorts destinations, aboard the Disney Cruise Line and the couples who come to celebrate their Disney honeymoon or bachelorette. This should be no surprise, as their enchanting offerings go beyond imagination, from immersive venues, innovative culinary options, and entertainment experiences to even collaborating with Allure Bridals to create the Disney princess-inspired wedding dress collection and Disney Villains capsule collection.

So whether you've always dreamed of tying the knot in a grand affair in front of Cinderella's Castle or a lowkey celebration in the gardens of one of their luxurious results, there's a Disney wedding venue that will make your heart skip a beat. Below, we'll discuss everything you need to know about planning a wedding at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida and the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. I also tapped Kori McFann, Director of Marketing at Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, to ensure you have all the details.

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What to Know About Disney Weddings (Disneyland & Disney World):
Cost | Packages | How to Plan | FAQs

How Much is a Disney Wedding?

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Disney Weddings uses an event minimum system to determine your wedding cost. The event minimum varies depending on your chosen venue and day of the week, but it is important to note as you develop your wedding budget. Lower minimums can also tend to apply to weekdays and higher minimums tend to apply to weekends and holidays. The good news is that your ceremony venue cost and any Disney Weddings Service elements can be used to hit your event minimum.

Walt Disney World Wedding Cost

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The total cost for a Walt Disney World Resort wedding starts at $15,000 but can increase depending on the guest count, the chosen venue and add-ons. The venue rental at Disney World starts at $5,000 and can be quoted up to $40,000 for premium locations like Magic Kingdom, with its iconic Cinderella Castle backdrop. This cost is specifically for the venue rental but can contribute towards the total event minimum. Ballrooms or gardens with no event minimum will have their own private pricing based on the number of guests and overall vision.

Food and Beverage Minimum

If you choose to have your wedding day at Magic Kingdom, plan to budget for the following reception costs, which have various starting points according to the time of day. It's important to note that these are starting costs and can increase based on your chosen menu.

• Brunch: $140 per guest
• Lunch: $165 per guest
• Dinner: $190 per guest

The tiers include any combination of pre-reception, reception, cake, and bar service. It must meet a per-person minimum based on the event time. Your total bill will add an additional 6.5% sales tax and a 25% labor and gratuity service charge. Tax and gratuity are not counted as part of the services or the minimum event total.

Entertainment and Add-Ons

Want to make your entrance in Cinderella's carriage? Or perhaps an appearance by Mickey and Minnie? These extras can range from $3,500 for the carriage to $1,200 for character appearances, among other magical enhancements

Disneyland Wedding Cost

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Like its Florida counterpart, a Disneyland Resort wedding starts at $15,000. So if you and your Prince(ss) Charming prefer to wed on the West Coast, you can certainly plan your dream wedding there. Venue fees at Disneyland start at $5,000 but can be much higher for premium locations like in front of the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle (well worth it, in my opinion!).

Food and Beverage Minimum

At Disneyland, you have plenty of choices regarding food and beverages. You can entertain guests with plated dinners, buffets, food action stations, and desserts. Prices will vary based on your reception's time of day and which meal you'll serve your guests.

• Brunch: $165 per guest
• Lunch: $185 per guest
• Dinner: $210 per guest

Note that this pricing includes any combination of pre-reception, reception, cake, and bar service. It must meet a per-person minimum based on the event time. Note that your total bill will add an additional 7.75% sales tax and 23% labor and gratuity service charge. Tax and gratuity are not counted as part of the services or the minimum event total.

Disney Wedding Packages

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"It starts with venues – we offer so much more than beautiful ballrooms," McFann says. "From castles and ships to beaches and romantic gardens, there are endless Disney locations where couples can celebrate their love. I don't think there's anything quite as magical as having your wedding actually take place in one of the immersive themed locations inside a Disney theme park."

For those considering Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Disney's Wedding Pavilion offers an exceptionally themed experience that adds a sophisticated touch of magic to your day. "We can also immerse you in the magic at our elaborately themed wedding pavilion at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida," McFann notes, ensuring that regardless of where within the Disney universe you decide to host your wedding, the enchantment will be a pivotal part of your experience.

Disney World Wedding Packages

Known as the most magical place on earth, The Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, boasts four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom), two waterparks and more than 25 resort hotels, providing couples with a plethora of stunning venues to choose from. Imagine exchanging vows in front of Cinderella Castle or hosting a reception in the African savanna at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge—Disney World truly offers a wide range of magical possibilities to make your special day unforgettable. Add in the warm Florida weather and the world-renowned Disney hospitality, and you've got a recipe for a destination wedding you and your guests will never forget.

Disney World Wedding Venues

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For those considering Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, you'll be pleased to know that dozens of wedding venues offer an exceptionally themed experience that adds a sophisticated touch of magic to your day. As an Orlando native and Annual Passholder, here are a few of my favorite venues you definitely need to consider:

• Disney's Wedding Pavilion, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Step into your very own fairytale at the Disney Wedding Pavilion. This iconic venue overlooks the sparkling waters of Seven Seas Lagoon, providing a romantic backdrop for your ceremony. With its breathtaking stained glass windows and luxurious ambiance, your dream wedding awaits here.
• EPCOT World Celebration Gardens: Immerse yourself in nature's beauty at the World Celebration Gardens in EPCOT. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene ponds, this outdoor venue offers a tranquil and intimate setting for your exchange of vows. It's the perfect spot for couples seeking a romantic garden wedding.
• EPCOT World Showcase Pavilions: Take your celebration to new heights at one of EPCOT's World Showcase Pavilions. From Mexico to Japan, each pavilion offers a unique cultural backdrop for your wedding.
• Magic Kingdom Park: Make your dreams come true with a wedding at the most enchanting place on earth—Magic Kingdom Park. Whether you choose Cinderella Castle or another iconic location within the park, your wedding will be nothing short of a magical fairytale as you walk down the aisle to your favorite Disney love song. Say "I do" amid your favorite Disney characters and embrace the fairytale atmosphere surrounding you.
• Pandora - The World of Avatar: Transport your guests to a mystical world with a wedding in Pandora. This immersive and otherworldly setting within Disney's Animal Kingdom Park offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop. Exchange vows surrounded by the awe-inspiring floating mountains and bioluminescent flora for a truly out-of-this-world wedding.
• Destino Plaza, Disney's Coronado Springs Resort: This vibrant and picturesque plaza offers the perfect setting for outdoor ceremonies. Destino Plaza's stunning fountain and Spanish-inspired architecture exude elegance and charm. Say your vows amidst the beauty of this lush oasis.
• Sea Breeze Point, Disney's Boardwalk Inn: If you're dreaming of a beachfront wedding, Sea Breeze Point is the place to be. Located at Disney's Boardwalk Inn, this serene venue overlooks Crescent Lake and offers a charming gazebo where you can exchange vows. The soft breeze and stunning views create a romantic coastal ambiance for your special day.
• Shipwreck Beach, Disney's Yacht & Beach Club Resort: Set sail on the romantic Shipwreck Beach. This waterfront venue is perfect for couples who love the sand between their toes and offers a picturesque backdrop for beach weddings. Say your "I do's" with the sound of waves crashing in the background, creating memories to last a lifetime.
• California Grill, Disney's Contemporary Resort: Elevate your wedding experience at the California Grill. Located atop Disney's Contemporary Resort, this sophisticated venue offers breathtaking views of the Magic Kingdom and a luxurious setting for your reception. Indulge in delectable cuisine while watching the fireworks light up the night sky for a truly unforgettable celebration.
• Oak Manor Lawn, Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside: Have a Southern-inspired wedding at Oak Manor Lawn. This charming venue at Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside features a sprawling lawn surrounded by oak trees, reminiscent of the Deep South. It's the perfect outdoor setting for couples seeking a touch of rustic elegance.

Disneyland Wedding Packages

With two stunning parks and three incredible resort hotels, Disneyland offers a range of enchanting venues and experiences to create your dream wedding. Disneyland Resort includes Disneyland Park, where you can exchange vows in front of the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, and Disney California Adventure Park, which offers unique settings like the beautiful Pacific Wharf and the charming Paradise Pier. With various options, couples can select the perfect backdrop for their happily ever after. Plus, being in sunny Southern California means you'll enjoy fantastic weather year-round, allowing for outdoor ceremonies and breathtaking views throughout your celebration.

Disneyland Wedding Venues

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• Rose Court Garden, Disneyland Hotel: This romantic garden boasts breathtaking gardens and a romantic gazebo. The idyllic setting invites you to exchange vows amidst nature's serenade, creating an intimate and unforgettable ceremony.
• Parkview Terrace, Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: This outdoor haven provides a glamorous setting for your wedding reception with sweeping views of Disney California Adventure Park. This Disneyland venue's luxurious ambiance promises an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
• Brisa Courtyard: Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Discover pure Mediterranean charm in the Brisa Courtyard. This hidden gem captures the essence of relaxation and elegance. Surrounded by beautiful architecture and cozy fireplaces, this intimate outdoor space is perfect for a small, romantic wedding celebration.
• Wedding Garden, Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: This enchanting outdoor venue envelops you in a world of beauty and serenity. Say "I do" surrounded by nature's wonders, and let the magical ambiance transport you into a realm of love and joy.
• Disney Animation Building, Disney's California Adventure Park: Add a touch of artistry to your wedding day at the Disney Animation Building. This unique venue blends imagination and creativity within Disney California Adventure Park. Celebrate your love story surrounded by iconic Disney characters and the artistic heritage of Disney animation.
• Small World Mall, Disneyland Park: Experience the joy of whimsical wonder at the Small World Mall. This vibrant outdoor venue, nestled in Disneyland Park, offers a colorful and joyful setting for your wedding reception. Dance the night away under twinkling lights, and let the spirit of Disney fill your celebration with unforgettable moments.
• The Sleeping Beauty Castle Forecourt, Disneyland Park: Set against the stunning backdrop of the Sleeping Beauty Castle, this venue offers a captivating setting for your wedding ceremony. Let the enchantment of Disney's fairy tales surround you as you say "I do" in front of this legendary symbol of love and romance.

How to Plan a Disney Wedding

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Before we uncover the secrets to creating a truly unforgettable celebration, let me address the elephant (or mouse) in the room: A Disney wedding can have as little or as much Disney magic sprinkled in as you'd like. As a wedding editor who has personally attended several Disney weddings over the years, I can attest that these weddings are beautiful and elegant affairs - the amount of pixie dust is up to you. "Our Weddings team is known for helping to bring each couple's individual style and unique vision to life for their wedding," McFann says.

Graphic by Joules Garcia for The Knot

Connect with a Disney Wedding Planner

Start by dreaming big. Whether you envision a classic fairy-tale event, a vintage-inspired affair, or a celebration that's uniquely you, Disney offers a range of themes to make your wedding distinctive. Immerse yourself in the experience by working with a Disney Wedding Planner who helps you select an aesthetic that resonates with you to guide your choices for décor, culinary experiences and entertainment. Before diving into the specifics, establish a realistic budget for your must-haves, such as venue, attire, and entertainment. Whether your budget is $15,000 or $50,000 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings can fit a range of budgets.

Choosing Your Ideal Venue

Selecting the perfect venue is a defining moment in your Disney wedding planning process. Disney's various venues offer something beyond the traditional, extending far beyond gorgeous ballrooms. McFann highlights the diversity of locations available: "From castles and ships to beaches and romantic gardens, there are endless Disney locations where couples can celebrate their love." Imagine saying your vows in front of the iconic Cinderella's Castle, aboard a majestic ship, or in a serene garden that seems a world away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. Disney's commitment to offering uniquely immersive themed locations provides a setting that's as unique as your love story.

Deciding on the Date and Time

According to Disney Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, the ceremony at a hotel location may be scheduled for the following times, subject to availability: 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM, and 7:30 PM. Specific times may only be available for weddings taking place in the park because they are open to the public daily. Work with your wedding planner to understand the pros and cons of different seasons and times of day for your celebration.

Curating Your Culinary Experience

Disney is renowned for its diverse and customizable dining options. Want Mickey waffles? You got it. Want an immersive African-themed menu? They can make that happen. (I've experienced it myself!) Partner with Disney's culinary team to craft a menu that delights the senses and satisfies any dietary preferences. Whether you want traditional dining, themed treats, or a combination of both, your menu will be an essential part of the Disney experience.

Personalizing Your Entertainment and Extras

The exclusivity of experiences available for Disney weddings might just be the icing on your wedding cake. "You can even include exclusive access to a world-famous attraction as part of your event," McFann continues. Whether it's a private ride on Avatar Flight of Passage or a serene journey on "Soarin'," these moments create unforgettable memories for you and your guests. And for those who dream of ending their special day with a bang, "Many of our theme parks also offer nightly fireworks and entertainment spectaculars, and we have private viewing locations that are ideal for receptions, rehearsal dinners, and other wedding-related events."

Managing Guest Experience and Accommodations

When planning a Disney Fairy Tale Wedding, consider the overall guest experience. From park tickets to hotel stays, ensure your loved ones have access to all they need for a magical trip. Talk to your Disney Wedding Planner to help you improve your guest experience from arrival to departure.

Disney Wedding Frequently Asked Questions

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Disney Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons promise a truly extraordinary experience no matter which venue you choose to host your fairy tale wedding, but with such a unique venue comes a carriage full of questions.

Does Disney accommodate small weddings?

Disney understands that every couple's dream wedding is unique, so they can easily accommodate small weddings and offer flexible options to ensure that your special day reflects your style and desires. "We can work with you to create a wedding that matches your vision, including a wedding with few or no guests," says McFann. So whether you envision an elaborate celebration or an intimate affair, Disney's team of expert wedding planners and experts is there to make your dreams a reality.

Does Disney have an elopement package?

Yes, Disney does offer elopement packages. While Disney may not have a specific elopement package, they can create custom weddings tailored to your needs. McFann explains, "Every wedding we create is custom. That includes a large number of couple-only events. We have the team, experience, and creativity to create these intimate events at any of our resort destinations or with Disney Cruise Line." So, if you're dreaming of an intimate wedding with just the two of you, Disney has the expertise to make it an unforgettable experience.

What does a Disney Wedding include?

According to McFann, a Disney Wedding includes access to a Disney Wedding Planner and a full Disney wedding planning team who will assist you with all the details to meet the event minimum. McFann notes that "specific inclusions will vary based on things like ceremony venue, day of the week, time of day, and guest count." The event minimum generally covers both the ceremony and reception experience. Still, you can add other elements to reach that minimum, such as food and beverage, floral and décor, entertainment, and more as Disney is dedicated to creating a unique and personalized wedding experience tailored to your wishes.