Finding a special vacation souvenir is a tradition for many Disney fans. We browse the gift shops or trek to Downtown Disney to find that perfect item to commemorate the trip. It might be an ornament, mug, piece of artwork, book, salt shaker or any number of other items available for purchase at Disney’s Parks and Resorts. And if you’d rather lie by the pool instead of shop on your vacation, you can even order many of the same souvenirs from the Disney Store once you get home.
Sometimes, though, staring at a gift shop trinket isn’t enough Disney for us once we return home. While the true magic is in our experiences, we can’t deny that the sights, smells and sounds of the Disney Parks contribute to our longing to be at our happy place. So how can you bring that Disney feeling home? Put on your hard hat. It’s all in the construction!
Disney sets the stage for each area of its theme parks and resorts by choosing materials that suit its particular design. After you identify which Disney location you would like to recreate at home, begin examining the details of the plantings, lighting, ground cover, walkway construction, seating, fencing and any other unique elements that might be present.
Narrow your focus depending on the style of the area you are trying to recreate. Use descriptive words such as “rustic” and “nautical” in your search to find products that reflect the unique characteristics of the area.
There are many contractors who have done work for Disney, such as Hammerworks, Steel Partners, and Bob Harris, that highlight their creations in their portfolios. While your budget might not allow you to have your product custom manufactured, the portfolios on these sites are a great brainstorming tool to develop your design. Once you know what you are looking for you’ll find that there are less expensive options of many materials available.
If you have a green thumb, then you have a “World” of possibilities at your fingertips. Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival is a particularly helpful time to get inspiration for your next gardening project. Strategically placing simple plantings could enhance the Disney ambiance around your home. The more skilled gardener might find a topiary to be a rewarding challenge. There are numerous resources available to help you get started and even demonstrate how to create your own Disney topiary.
These projects can be tailored to fit your budget, needs and building abilities. Don’t be afraid to bring pictures to your local home improvement store or to show them to your building contractor. This is the best way to convey the look you are trying to achieve.
The next time you are looking for a special souvenir to remind you of your happy place, consider building it!
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