DisLove Podcast with Vanessa and Kris

Vanessa Ferguson and Kris Johns

The DisLove Podcast with Vanessa and Kris was created to share their love of all things Disney in 2018. They feature vendors, crafters and travel agents who can help make your next Disney trip or your everyday life even more magical. They had their Disney Fairy Tale Wedding at Epcot in 2008 (American Adventure Rotunda) and a vow renewal at Epcot in 2018 (Italy Pavilion).  They love sharing tips from their trips to Walt Disney World, Disneyland and on the Disney Cruise Line.Check out their shows to find unique vendors who can help bring Disney magic to you at home or on your next Disney vacation!

  1. Sep 4

    DisLove E167: Toy Story Hotel And Tokyo Disneyland Tips For First Timers

    Send us Fan Mail Tokyo Disney Resort feels like Disney the moment you arrive, but the way you travel, check in, and tour the parks can be wildly different from Walt Disney World or Disneyland. We’re back with part two of our Tokyo Disney trip series, sharing what it actually felt like to land in Japan, get ourselves to the resort, and hit the ground running with a Tokyo Disney vacation package. We start with the long haul reality: flying Japan Airlines in standard economy, what stood out about comfort and service, and the little surprise that made the cabin feel different. Then we get practical, from booking airport transportation through Klook to the “do this immediately” tip that saved our first night: a Japanese 7 Eleven stop for snacks, drinks, and quick meals before heading to the hotel. From there it’s all Toy Story Hotel: the over the top theming, the compact one building layout, and the strict entry rules that mean you can’t just wander into hotels you’re not staying at. We also break down the check in process and the truly old school stack of paper tickets and vouchers that comes with a Tokyo Disney vacation package, plus room tips like firm beds, smart space use, toiletries, and how early sunrise can wake you up in summer. Finally, we talk Tokyo Disneyland touring strategy, including Disney Premiere Access (and why having to buy it inside the park changes your morning), shopping differences, packaged sweets culture, dining at Crystal Palace, our honest take on Tokyo Disney popcorn, and the big wins like Enchanted Tales Of Beauty And The Beast and Mickey’s Magical Music World. If you’re planning a Tokyo Disneyland trip or comparing Tokyo Disney to US parks, this one will help you plan smarter and stress less. Subscribe so you don’t miss our Tokyo DisneySea follow up, then share this with a friend planning Japan and leave us a review with your biggest Tokyo Disney question. Travel Made Easy with Little OnesHigh quality, clean baby gear delivered right to your resort while on your Disney Vacation.Use the code "dislove10" to save 10%! Where In the Park game packs are fun & challenging for anyone who knows the parks and for newbies.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.For all the latest news about our episodes follow us on Instagram @dislovewithvanessaandkris or on YouTube.

  2. Aug 6

    DisLove E166: The Ultimate Tokyo Disney Planning Series Part 1 – Planning & Booking

    Send us Fan Mail Tokyo Disney sounds like a “someday” trip until you run the numbers and realize it can be more cost effective than a week in Florida. We’re Vanessa and Kris, and we’re kicking off a three part Tokyo Disney planning series with the unglamorous stuff that actually makes or breaks your vacation: dates, reservations, payment hurdles, and how to build a plan that fits your budget and your group. We explain why we chose Tokyo Disney Resort now, including how the strong US dollar against the Japanese yen changed our total trip cost, and why Japan’s national holidays can turn Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea into wall to wall crowds. We also talk weather reality, from summer heat and humidity at DisneySea to colder, wetter seasons, so you can pick a travel window with eyes wide open. Along the way, we compare what we paid for a Tokyo Disney vacation package to what a similar Walt Disney World package can cost, and we share what surprised us most about food, merchandise, and taxes being baked into the displayed price. Then we get tactical: how Tokyo Disney vacation packages work, when they open (often about five months out), and why you need your ride picks and dining decisions ready before you click purchase. We also share our biggest headache, credit card payment failures tied to 3D Secure authentication, plus backup options like authorized ticket platforms and alternative ticket types (including after 3 p.m. and after 5 p.m. tickets). We wrap with where we stayed, why we split time between Toy Story Hotel and Hilton Tokyo Bay, and what to prepare for before the next part of the series on arrival and park logistics. If you’re planning Tokyo Disney for the first time and want a clear, honest playbook, subscribe for the rest of the series, share this with a friend who loves Disney travel, and leave us a review so more planners can find the show. What’s the one thing you’re most nervous about booking? Klook website for purchasing ticketsTokyo Disney Vacation PackagesTokyo Disneyland and DisneySea Holiday Planning Facebook GroupUse the code "dislove10" to save 10%! Where In the Park game packs are fun & challenging for anyone who knows the parks and for newbies.Travel Made Easy with Little OnesHigh quality, clean baby gear delivered right to your resort while on your Disney Vacation.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.For all the latest news about our episodes follow us on Instagram @dislovewithvanessaandkris or on YouTube.

  3. Jun 18

    DisLove E165: We Put Three Theme Park Access Systems To The Test

    Send us Fan Mail A disability accommodation can make the difference between a day that feels doable and a day that melts down before lunch, so we put three major Florida parks side by side and talk about what happened when the plans met reality. We just visited EPCOT, Universal Epic Universe, and SeaWorld on the same trip, and we’re sharing an honest, on-the-ground comparison of each park’s accessibility approach for our daughter on the spectrum, including what felt supportive and what created extra stress. At Disney, we walk through how the DAS Pass works inside the My Disney Experience app, what to expect once you enter the park, and how we coordinated DAS return times with Lightning Lane so our whole group could stay together. We also cover a real “rain day” problem: what happens when rides shut down and your DAS selection doesn’t clear, plus the simple guest services fix that got us moving again. Universal brought a totally different experience. We break down the practical realities of queue re-entry, including the awkward timing, the “send a photo to prove where you are” moments, and why tight queues and lots of stairs can be tough even when waits are short. SeaWorld surprised us with a fast, paper-based process and a sensory guide that clearly explains what to expect on each attraction, which can be a game changer for families managing sensory overload. If you’re planning accessible theme park travel, listen for the details, share this with a friend who needs it, and subscribe so you don’t miss our next trip debrief. After you listen, what park handled accommodations best for your family? Use the code "dislove10" to save 10%! Where In the Park game packs are fun & challenging for anyone who knows the parks and for newbies.Travel Made Easy with Little OnesHigh quality, clean baby gear delivered right to your resort while on your Disney Vacation.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.For all the latest news about our episodes follow us on Instagram @dislovewithvanessaandkris or on YouTube.

  4. Feb 27

    DisLove E164: How Disney, Universal, And SeaWorld Handle Disability Access

    Send us Fan Mail Planning a theme park trip with a neurodiverse child shouldn’t feel like a second full-time job. We put Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld side by side and share what actually helps our autistic daughter enjoy the day: clear processes, predictable return times, trained staff, and spaces to decompress. You’ll hear exactly how Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS) works—from the pre-trip video chat to linking every family member in the app—and why that digital flow reduces stress before you even scan in. We also explain how to coordinate DAS with Lightning Lane when your group is bigger than the pass allows, so no one gets left behind. Then we unpack Universal’s two-tier approach. We go step by step through the IBCCES verification, the unscheduled verification call, and the common outcome of getting queue re-entry instead of the Attraction Assistance Pass (AAP). We’re candid about what that means in real life: exiting a standby line, navigating back to your party, and relying on team members who may not always know the process. If predictability is your superpower, you’ll learn how to set expectations, prep simple advocacy scripts, and minimize friction. Finally, we walk through SeaWorld Orlando’s Certified Autism Center model, where day-of registration, sensory guides, and trained staff put tools in your hands without a mountain of paperwork. Our goal is simple: help you match each park’s system to your child’s real needs. We offer practical checklists—link tickets early, pack headphones and snacks, map quiet zones, and choose return-time options when possible—so the wait happens in calmer places. Whether you’re managing sensory overload, anxiety, or difficulty staying in a tight queue, you’ll leave with a plan that respects your child’s dignity and your family’s energy. If this helped, share it with a friend, subscribe for more park planning tips, and leave a quick review so other families can find us. What’s your must-have strategy for a smoother park day? Travel Made Easy with Little OnesHigh quality, clean baby gear delivered right to your resort while on your Disney Vacation.Use the code "dislove10" to save 10%! Where In the Park game packs are fun & challenging for anyone who knows the parks and for newbies.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.For all the latest news about our episodes follow us on Instagram @dislovewithvanessaandkris or on YouTube.

  5. Jan 16

    DisLove E163: Plan for 2026 with Our Review - Nostalgia or Glamour for the Holidays at Disney World

    Send us Fan Mail Two holiday parties. One short trip. We set out to answer a question every Disney fan asks in December: should you book Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom or Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios? After doing both just days apart, we share what truly feels like Christmas, where the entertainment hits hardest, and how to get the most value for your crew. If warm nostalgia is your love language, Magic Kingdom delivers: snowfall on Main Street, Santa in the parade, free cookie and cocoa stations, and beloved characters in cozy winter looks. We met princesses with their princes—Cinderella and Prince Charming, Rapunzel and Flynn, Snow White and her Prince—and moved quickly through lines late at night. For collectors, we talk sippers, the red truck popcorn bucket, and the pro tip to keep popcorn out of your bucket so it stays pristine. Jollywood, meanwhile, shines with modern Hollywood energy. Think live music, a magnetic ice skating show under Florida skies, roaming dance parties with tuxedoed Goofy and Pluto, and a projection spectacular at the Chinese Theater. Character hunters will appreciate surprises like Scrooge McDuck and an easy meet with Miguel if you know where to look. Foodies and cocktail fans will love the specialty small plates and themed drinks, while families focused on value may favor the included treats at Very Merry. We also break down strategy: how to structure your day so you’re not dragging by fireworks, when to choose driving over buses or Skyliner, and how to pick the right party for kids, grandparents, or an adults-only night. With variable pricing, DVC discounts, and even free ornaments, the details matter—and we’ve got the playbook. Many people are already booking their room reservations for the holiday. Are you ready to plan your December 2026 trip? Hit play, choose your vibe—nostalgic cookies or glamorous cocktails—and tell us which party you’d pick. If you enjoy the show, subscribe, share with a Disney friend, and leave a review to help more fans find us. Travel Made Easy with Little OnesHigh quality, clean baby gear delivered right to your resort while on your Disney Vacation.Use the code "dislove10" to save 10%! Where In the Park game packs are fun & challenging for anyone who knows the parks and for newbies.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.For all the latest news about our episodes follow us on Instagram @dislovewithvanessaandkris or on YouTube.

  6. Jan 2

    DisLove E162: Finding Hidden Details Across Disney Parks with Kevin and Amanda from Where in the Park

    Send us Fan Mail Ever feel like you’re sprinting through Disney and missing the magic right under your nose? We slow the pace and map a different kind of day—one built on curiosity, texture, and sound. From the sly Imagineer tributes on Main Street to the handcrafted mosaics in Morocco, from the koi ponds tucked behind Japan’s pagoda to the choral power of Voices of Liberty, we show how attention turns crowded parks into living stories. Then we’re joined by Kevin and Amanda, the creators of Where in the Park, a seek-and-find game that turns wandering into wonder. They explain how their image cards, hints, and QR-powered answers guide you to details you’ve walked past a hundred times, without standing in lines or stepping into shops. We talk game design, ground rules, and the satisfying “aha” moments that families turn into competitions or slow, thoughtful loops between meals and shows. They also share updates to their refreshed packs, new digital games for Disney Springs and CityWalk, value-friendly bundles, and practical shipping timelines. We round things out with an evening stroll: bioluminescent trails in Pandora, Toy Story Land’s glow, and Galaxy’s Edge immersion from blaster marks to authentic droid tracks. Add resort displays, seasonal touches, and a day riding the monorail, boats, and Skyliner, and you’ve got a relaxing, low-cost way to savor more. Ready to trade rope-drop rush for discovery? Press play, grab a seek-and-find, and tell us the best hidden detail you’ve ever spotted. If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who loves the parks as much as you do. Order from Where in the Park and use the code dislove10 to save 10% on your order.Where in the Park Podcast episode about windows at Disneyland Park.Travel Made Easy with Little OnesHigh quality, clean baby gear delivered right to your resort while on your Disney Vacation.Use the code "dislove10" to save 10%! Where In the Park game packs are fun & challenging for anyone who knows the parks and for newbies.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.For all the latest news about our episodes follow us on Instagram @dislovewithvanessaandkris or on YouTube.

  7. 11/07/2025

    DisLove E161: Discover How Guided Tours And In-Park Quests with Rabbit Hole Quests Add More Magic to Your Disney Vacations

    Send us Fan Mail Ever walked through Disney certain you’d seen it all—then spotted one tiny detail that changed how the whole land feels? That spark of discovery drives this episode, where we explore the most rewarding Disney tours that add depth and story to your day, then sit down with Stefan from Rabbit Hole Quest Craft to uncover escape-style adventures that turn the parks into interactive playgrounds. We start with essential picks for curious fans looking to see Walt Disney World in a new light. Keys to the Kingdom at Magic Kingdom dives into park history and those legendary utilidors beneath Main Street. Over at Animal Kingdom, Caring for Giants delivers a meaningful and affordable look at elephant care and conservation. In Epcot, Behind the Seeds takes you behind the Living with the Land boats to explore hydroponics, sustainability, and beneficial insects firsthand—perfect for anyone who loves learning how Disney grows the future. For more immersive experiences, we compare the adventurous Wild Africa Trek with the relaxed, food-forward Savor the Savannah, two premium Animal Kingdom offerings worth the splurge. Short on time? Up Close with Rhinos gives guests a rare, intimate view of one of the park’s most inspiring species. And for a nighttime twist, Starlight Safari at Animal Kingdom Lodge lets you explore the savannas with night-vision goggles—no park ticket required. Throughout the discussion, we share practical tips: when to book, how to handle mobility needs, where discounts might apply, and what to expect in terms of pacing and accessibility. You’ll also hear a few fun extras—like trivia about The Land pavilion’s early sponsors and the original Soarin’ concept—plus a few classic Walt quotes that still resonate with how guests learn and explore today. Then we welcome Stefan from Rabbit Hole Quest Craft, a lifelong Disneyland local reimagining the parks as story-driven scavenger experiences. His team’s handcrafted “quests” combine analog and digital gameplay—think ciphers, clue cards, and location-based puzzles—leading to a final story payoff sealed in a locked envelope. It’s National Treasure meets The Goonies, with a sprinkle of Disney storytelling magic. You’ll hear how the quests work, what players learn along the way, and details on their newest release: a Main Street noir mystery coming soon. Whether you’re a first-timer or a lifelong passholder, these tours and quests will change how you see the parks. Ready to experience Disney with fresh eyes, deeper stories, and a little mystery? 🌟 Follow the show, share it with your favorite Disney friend, and tell us which tour—or quest—you’re booking next! Travel Made Easy with Little OnesHigh quality, clean baby gear delivered right to your resort while on your Disney Vacation.Use the code "dislove10" to save 10%! Where In the Park game packs are fun & challenging for anyone who knows the parks and for newbies.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.For all the latest news about our episodes follow us on Instagram @dislovewithvanessaandkris or on YouTube.

  8. 06/26/2025

    DisLove E160: Paper, Scissors, Magic: Meet Miss Beth, Disney's Silhouette Artist and Other Unique Disney Souvenirs

    Send us Fan Mail Every Disney vacation creates memories, but what if you could bring home something truly one-of-a-kind? Forget the standard t-shirts and magnets – we're diving deep into the world of personalized Disney souvenirs and the artisans who create them. Vanessa and Kris explore Disney's lesser-known treasures, from personalized glass ornaments hand-crafted at Arribas Brothers to custom parasols painted in Liberty Square. These aren't just souvenirs; they're heirlooms that capture moments in time. We discuss how to design your own glass keepsake at Epcot's Germany Pavilion, create a personalized leather bracelet in Animal Kingdom, or build a lightsaber that's uniquely yours at Galaxy's Edge. Whether your budget allows for pressed pennies or custom droids, we cover unique options across every price point. The highlight of our journey is our conversation with Miss Beth from Miss Beth's Silhouettes, who began creating silhouettes at Magic Kingdom in 1989 and now offers this classic art form through her own business. She shares heartwarming stories of generations returning to find her, silhouettes from decades past carefully preserved in family albums. There's something magical about these simple black profiles that capture not just a likeness, but a moment in time – a child's first Disney trip, a family reunion, or a special celebration. As Miss Beth explains, these aren't just souvenirs; they're connections between generations of Disney lovers. We wrap up with fascinating Disney collectible trivia – would you believe a hand-drawn Disneyland map once sold for over $700,000? While most of us won't be bidding on original attraction vehicles, the value of thoughtfully chosen, personalized souvenirs goes far beyond their price tag. They become touchstones to magical memories, reminding us that the most precious thing we bring home from Disney isn't what we buy – it's how those treasures make us feel long after the vacation ends. Miss Beth on FacebookMiss Beth on Instagram @bethpray2 Use the code "dislove10" to save 10%! Where In the Park game packs are fun & challenging for anyone who knows the parks and for newbies.Travel Made Easy with Little OnesHigh quality, clean baby gear delivered right to your resort while on your Disney Vacation.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.For all the latest news about our episodes follow us on Instagram @dislovewithvanessaandkris or on YouTube.

5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

The DisLove Podcast with Vanessa and Kris was created to share their love of all things Disney in 2018. They feature vendors, crafters and travel agents who can help make your next Disney trip or your everyday life even more magical. They had their Disney Fairy Tale Wedding at Epcot in 2008 (American Adventure Rotunda) and a vow renewal at Epcot in 2018 (Italy Pavilion).  They love sharing tips from their trips to Walt Disney World, Disneyland and on the Disney Cruise Line.Check out their shows to find unique vendors who can help bring Disney magic to you at home or on your next Disney vacation!