The Disney Social Media Moms Celebration is just 3 weeks away. It’s time to get prepared already! Since I go to Disney World quite often, here’s a list of tips for you that are both conference and Disney park related:
Stay Updated
- Be sure to follow DisneySMMoms on Twitter and the hashtag #DisneySMMoms to get updates
- Check your email for information. You should have received your confirmation to the conference, your hotel confirmation and the list of speakers (along with a link to add your own information for the conference).
- There is a Disney Social Media Moms Celebration website that updates along with the emails as well. Bookmark that site.
Clothing
- For the conference itself, you can dress resort casual – capris, walking shorts, skirts. I wouldn’t suggest jeans or short shorts.
- For the parks – Keep in mind that you will be photographed by other attendees and possibly Disney photographers. Although you may want to wear something skimpy to stay cool, consider dressing in the same vein of resort casual. The same goes for your family.
- The weather may surprise you. Last year, it was freezing and many of us wore jackets, hats and gloves. Check the weather before you leave! Bring sweaters or light jackets either way as it can get cooler at night. It may also get cold during the conference because of the air conditioning.
- Don’t leave your bathing suits at home. The Grand Floridian has 2 pools, which are heated, and a hot tub at the main pool.
- If you considering dining at a Signature Dining Restaurant or have already made reservations, the dress code is Business Casual.
- Comfortable shoes are a must. Remember that you will be visiting the parks and there is a lot of walking to be done. Don’t let blisters ruin your trip.
Packing
- Yes, bring your laptop. You’ll use it during the conference day and may want to write a blog post.
- Make friends and bring a power strip. I’m not sure if you’ll be able to plug it in, but last year there was a big lack of outlets.
- Don’t forget your business cards.
- Phone, camera, video camera, cords, etc. – all the tech gadgets you’ll need. Label everything.
- Your branded items – shirts, totes, etc.
- Your sponsor’s items.
- Any medications or vitamins that you take or may need. There’s nothing like feeling puny and not having something handy.
- Power bars, energy drinks or whatever keeps you going. The Grand Floridian rooms have a refrigerator in each room, by the way.
- Cash as well as you credit cards. Bring some small bills for tips.
- Government issued ID’s are needed for all adults in order to be admitted to the parks.
Scheduling
- You’ll receive your itinerary when you check into the Grand Floridian. Be sure to let you family know where you’ll be so you can meet up for the family events.
- Prepare for the wait time of check in, which is 3 PM EST. If you need to rest upon arrival you can request an earlier check in, but it is not guaranteed. Keep your smart phone handy and send out a tweet to see if anyone has a room where you can crash for a few hours.
- There is plenty of free time to go to the parks during this conference. If you are staying for just the 3 days, make your choice now of what park(s) you want to visit. You may want to decide on the attractions as well.
- See what attractions have fast passes, which will make your wait time lower.
- Don’t overdo it. It’s easy to say, but you want to be there mentally and physically to enjoy each moment.
- Keep in mind that it can be hot in the parks, especially at Animal Kingdom. The heat alone can make you tired. Plan accordingly. Bring water for everyone in your party. Make use of that hotel refrigerator.
- Get familiar with the Grand Floridian Resort before the conference. Check out what is are the must do’s there.
I wrote about the importance of networking at conferences after I attended IzeaFest inj 2009. Those tips hold true today. Please take a quick look at that post. Most of all, have fun while you’re at the Disney Social Media Moms Conference. Be ready for surprises that you never thought possible!
Are there any other tips you’d like to add?
About 
Twitter: TheAngelForever
says:
Great tups Connie. I think the most important part of this is to be yourself and stay comfortable. Too many times we get bogged down with what to wear at conferences. Can not wait to see you again. One of my special memories from last year was sitting at Lunch with you at the Contemporary. Hoping for many more magical memories in a few weeks.
Beth recently posted..Fun on a Snow Mountain
So true Beth about the clothing. I like to look professional, but that’s just me. I think it has to do with my age! I remember that lunch very well and then our time together at BlogHer. Can’t wait to see you again!
Thanks Connie! I didn’t bookmark the Disney site and it’s been elusive. We’re trying to coordinate the dinner meet-ups and such. Do you think my husband and boys will disown me if I make them wear MomImpact t-shirts?!
Kim/hormone-colored days recently posted..Do You Get Paid for Twitter Parties
Glad to help Kim with the site info for you. Well if your husband and sons disown you, you can always tell them that you’re moving to Florida and getting your job back at Disney!
Great tips!! Can not wait to meet you!
Melissa recently posted..Clorox Connects
Same here Melissa! Glad to know provided some advice that was helpful.
Twitter: 89linz
says:
Those are great tips! It seems like lots of fun, too. I can’t wait to read your posts on it.
Lindsay recently posted..EatSmart Bathroom Scale Giveaway
I’ll definitely be writing all about my time at the conference.
Twitter: MomMaven
says:
I can’t wait! 17 days left!!
Cindy Schultz recently posted..Cars 2- The Video Game Revs Up for a Summer 2011 Release
The countdown is on. So excited that you’ll be there for the whole event this time.
Twitter: blm03
says:
Great advice Connie! Some of this holds true for a vacation there!
Lisa recently posted..How is bolting the windows shut at the capital in Madison Wisconsin NOT a fire hazard
Great tips! Wish I could have gone to this one too- looks like it will be so much fun!
Stacie recently posted..Monetizing Your Blog- February 2011 Report
Twitter: crazyadventures
says:
Great tips! You’re getting me excited to go!!
Lisa recently posted..1000th Post! Whoa
Although I’m not going, the tips are fab!
Melissa {adventuroo} recently posted..How to Make a Paper Bunting
Hi Connie! Thanks for such a great post, good tips as we all start to prepare for this trip. Can’t wait to meet and chat!
Amy recently posted..Disneys Grand Floridian Disney Social Media Moms
Great suggestion about the power strip! That would be one thing you’d really want to have!
Andrea – The Greenbacks Gal recently posted..Start Planning Now for Graduation Gifts
Great tips, wish I was going.
Brandy recently posted..Kroger Deals 2-27-3-5!!
This is a great tip series Connie ~ I mentioned it during GO MOM! Live on MomTV Monday ~ just really useful insights to help everyone be better prepared. Looking forward to seeing you soon!
Twitter: mamabeedoes
says:
You’ll have all the Disney Moms prepared. Wish I could attend, maybe next year. I’m sure you’ll enjoy every moment.
Shanaka recently posted..CVS Deals 3-6-3-12
Sounds like a lot of fun. I wish I had read a post this detailed before I went to my first blogging confernece last fall.
Twitter: JessAriasCooper
says:
I hope to go to Disney Social Media Moms some day. I bookmarked this for when the time comes.