Tips For Character Meet and Greets at Disney World

One of the most stressful parts about a Disney World vacation actually has nothing to do with the booking, travelling or actual vacation itself. It’s my opinion that waiting in line to meet your favorite character, be it Mickey or any other friend brings levels of anxiety and butterflies that no other experience will do.
Why?
Quite simply, it’s an unknown situation.

  • Do you go for a hug or do you do a handshake?
  • Do you ask a question that will allow for a conversation?
  • Where do you put your hands?!

All of these are situations that I’ve had plenty of experience with and it’s my job during this article to share a few tips that will make your character meet and greet as seamless and stress-free as possible!

Here are my Tips for Character Meet and Greets


BRING A VALENTINES CARD / HOLIDAY GREETING

Giving Rapunzel a Valentine's Card
Giving Rapunzel a Valentine’s Card – Photo by Steps to Magic

Are you visiting on a specific holiday? Well maybe this is a great excuse to head to the dollar store before your trip and get a few valentines or holiday cards prepared and give them as a little momento. We did this on Valentines Day and all the characters that we met (Anna and Elsa, Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel and Tiana) had a blast with this added fun little keepsake.

MAKE MOVIE-SPECIFIC CONVERSATION

Starlord and Baby Groot with Dustin
Starlord and Baby Groot with Dustin – Photo by Steps to Magic

This is important – characters live within their own world. Tink knows about Peter Pan, but she doesn’t know about the Mad Hatter…so going in and asking about movie-specific topics will actually help your meet and greet.

Start by saying something simple like “I loved your adventure where you….” and let them take it from there. It’ll be so much fun:)

ASK WHERE THEIR SIDEKICK IS

Ask Aladdin where Abu is…or if you can see the Genie’s magic lamp. Ask Snow White where the Seven Dwarfs are…and who’s her favorite? 😉 When you focus on a sidekick, it actually allows for great conversation that will bring out a bigger smile in the photos!

Related Article – Where to find Rare Characters


Article Continues Below

DO A UNIQUE POSE

Kylo Ren and Dustin
Kylo Ren and Dustin – Photo by Steps to Magic

Everyone wants to get a photo with Mickey…but if you do some research on Flickr or Instagram (location), you’ll be able to come up with some fun poses that aren’t just the “SMILE” pose.

CURTSEY / BOW TO ROYALTY

This is 100% integral to the experience if you’re meeting Royalty. Knowing how to properly greet Princesses and Princes will make for a really fun and authentic time. Plus it’ll get you completely brownie-points with your friends if you get everyone to bow to the Beast at Be Our Guest!

I’ve actually had the PhotoPass photographer ask us to hold the pose for the PERFECT photo!

SIDE HUG VS FULL HUG – PHOTO-WISE

Olaf and Dustin Side Hug
Olaf and Dustin Side Hug – Photo by Steps to Magic

If you want to do a full on hug because you’re sooo excited…do it! BUT ask the photographer to also get a photo of a side hug with your face in view. You’ll thank me later:) The number of times that I’ve had to say “that’s me…I think” lol!

DECIDE AHEAD OF TIME WHO’S IN THE PHOTO

OMG…you’re standing in line for an experience…so decide who’s going to be in the photo and if there are specific poses that you want to get. Start with solo photos and then end with a group photo. If you’re there with your family, start with the kids and then do a family photo.

Just know ahead of time and let the character attendant in on your plans, as they’ll probably have a tip or two to help out with the conversation. They’ll also share that information with the character, so that’s a huge bonus!


Article Continues Below

PHOTOPASS PHOTOGRAPHER WILL TAKE A PHOTO WITH YOUR CAMERA

Do you want a photo on your phone or for social media? Did you know that the Photopass Photographer can use your camera to get the image for you? Just make sure that you have your camera ready to point and click AND your phone already on the camera function.

KNOW WHEN TO LEAVE

Don’t rush the experience, but once you have a chance to meet the character and get a photo and autograph (if you’re collecting them), then thank them for their time and make your exit. I’m a huge fan of asking for a final hug before leaving, as it’s a great way to end the experience!


Those are my tips for a seamless Character Meet and Greet! If you have any addition tips, please feel free to leave them below!

Tips For Character Meet And Greets at Walt Disney World - #StepstoMagic
Tips For Character Meet And Greets at Walt Disney World – #StepstoMagic
Dustin Fuhshttp://www.stepstomagic.com
I’m Dustin Fuhs, a theme park fanatic that has created this platform to showcase my passion, tools and opinions to create a fun and interactive experience for everyone who visits. My goal is to help you and your family have the most magical experience at Walt Disney World. In reading my articles and ideas, I hope that you can find some fantastic ways to bring your dreams into reality!

Related articles

The Rip-offs of Disney World

As the 'Vacation Kingdom' continues to shift from a place for everyone to catering to a select few, there is still a discussion to be had around getting to experience Walt Disney World without being subjected to being priced-out.

Walt Disney World Golf: A Comprehensive Overview

Explore Walt Disney World Resort Golf's four championship courses, renowned amenities, and storied hosting legacy.

Introduction to Disney Funko Pop! Vinyl

If you're like me, a Disney fan and collector of obscure stuff that looks great on your office bookshelf, this is the post for you. Let's look at the magical world of Disney Funko Pop! Vinyls.

Underrated Attractions at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal has some amazing attractions that folks may undervalue, underestimate and flat out sell short...so let's take a look at them!

Things That Rainforest Cafe in Disney World Does Right

The Rainforest Cafe isn't a recommended stop, but what does the chain known for lacklustre food and out-of-date audio-animatronics do well that other restaurants at Disney World could learn from?

Staples of a Disney World Diet

A Disney World vacation can a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will be remembered forever. Or, it can be a memorable trip that will entice you to make a follow-up trip as soon as possible.

8 Christmas Activities at Walt Disney World You Can’t Miss

Celebrate Christmas in Disney style! Uncover '8 Christmas Activities at Walt Disney World You Can’t Miss' for holiday magic.

Pixar Experiences at Disney World

Disney has been putting experiences into theme parks based on IP (or Intellectual Property) for decades, but things are a little different when you look at the relationship between The Mouse and Pixar.

Top Ten Disney Advance Dining Reservations to get ASAP

Discover the essential Disney advance dining reservations for an awesome Walt Disney World experience.

Top 10 Hilarious Jungle Cruise Puns

Embark on a pun-filled adventure! Discover the top 10 Jungle Cruise puns that will make you laugh, groan, and fall in love with Disney humor.

10 Things We Will Never Do Again at Disney World

Learn from our mistakes! Uncover the 10 things we vow never to do again at Disney World for a smoother, happier vacation experience.

Where To Get Free Stuff On Your Birthday In Orlando

Celebrating your birthday in Orlando is better when you can get free stuff.
704 Shares
Pin704
Share
Reddit