The floating mountains of Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, an EPCOT nighttime spectacular, and panoramic views from the California Grill made for an iconic Disney Wedding week for Hayley and Josh. Keep reading to be inspired!
While Hayley and Josh met in high school, their love story began when they reconnected 7.5 years later and describe it as “magical every day since.” It’s no wonder they wanted a Disney Wedding! Their Disney Wedding story began when Josh proposed in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom with an engagement ring from Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings collection.
“Every time I look down at my ring, I think about that whole day and how I felt, the magic and the goosebumps I get from how special he made me feel and continue to do every day.”
A Spectacular Welcome Party
Kicking off their magical wedding week, Hayley and Josh welcomed their friends and family at a dessert party at United Kingdom Lochside in EPCOT. Surrounded by their loved ones, they enjoyed uniquely Disney snacks like Mickey beignets and pretzels. Hayley shared with us that they “love all the Disney snacks and drinks when we visit Walt Disney World and wanted to incorporate our favorite and Disney-specific foods in our reception and dessert party.” The EPCOT nighttime spectacular lit up the night sky as they enjoyed a close-up view from the VIP viewing area.
A Fantastical Ceremony
The next day, Hayley and Josh exchanged their vows against a stunning backdrop of the floating mountains of Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. “We felt the love all over us in the atmosphere from our loved ones and being immersed in the lighting bouncing off the mountains. Having the floating mountains behind us as we said, ‘I do’ and shared our vows, was a one-of-a-kind experience and nothing can ever compete with that moment or feeling.”
This legendary setting requires minimal decor, as the expanse of the Pandora mountains, glowing details, and enchanting setting speak for itself. Hayley and Josh opted for a classic floral Mickey to adorn the altar as a magical touch for their ceremony. Just look at these stunning photos! Following the ceremony, the couple took portraits in front of the Tree of Life before moving on to take wedding portraits at the classic Contemporary Resort.
A Classic Reception
Hayley and Josh’s reception was held at California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, which boasts legendary views of Cinderella Castle and the sparkling Seven Seas Lagoon. While working with their Disney Wedding Planner to create their dream reception, Hayley shared that “when our planner suggested the main dining room at California Grill and showed us pictures of not just the castle… but the whole of Magic Kingdom, we soon realized we were pixie dusted this opportunity.” The Disney Weddings Catering team took inspiration from their favorite Disney stories to create two beautiful cakes, and their custom menu also included Mickey-inspired desserts.
