Creating Memorable Character Interactions

Annette Miller11/28/19Character greetings can be memorable experiences for every member of the family. And a character greeting with your favorite character can be so much fun! For some, this may mean simply posing for a photo together. For others however, maybe something a little more outside of the box is in order. I will share some ideas toward the end, but first I wanted to share a story about a particularly memorable exchange I shared with my favorite character.Those who know me, know that I love Goofy! He is, in my opinion, the perfect man. He doesn’t take himself too seriously, he never gives up, he’s a great dad, he is unfaltering in his dedication to his friends, and he has the best laugh.A couple of years ago, I went to meet Goofy (as I do on every trip) in Fantasyland. As I approached him, he scooped me into a giant hug. It was one of those restorative and comforting hugs that went on forever. In fact, it went on so long that I joked that he would have to promise to marry me if it went on much longer. He enthusiastically nodded.I didn’t tell him, but I was going through a rough patch at that time. That hug was exactly what he never knew I needed. And the memory of that hug has stuck with me.As I was preparing for my birthday trip, I did some shopping at my local Dollar Tree. My daughter found a giant fake diamond ring. (It was marketed as a napkin ring for a bachelorette party.) I instantly knew that I needed it!When I met Goofy on my birthday, I gave him a hug and reminded him of our long embrace and his promise to marry me. He initially denied it, but I simply told him that I had been waiting and waiting for my ring and finally decided to take matters into my own hands. I pulled out the ring and Goofy slipped it into his pocket. We took a couple of photos and then he instructed my friend to grab her camera and follow us. He then took me by the hand and led me into a larger room. He clapped to get the attention of everyone around and then dropped to one knee! This was the most fun I have had with a character interaction…ever.If you would like to create your own magical character interaction, think about your characters storyline and find something that you can take them; such as handing Snow White an apple or Rapunzel a frying pan. Consider something you can say to them. Maybe telling Donald that Mickey is your favorite, or talking with the Stepsisters about which chores they like to give Cinderella. How about a fun pose you can share with them, such as smoldering with Flynn Rider or shooting a bow and arrow with Merida? The options are endless!If I can help you create your own magical experiences, please reach out. You can reach me by email at annette@wishesfamilytravel.com or by phone/text at 734-730-3869. I love putting on my creative cap and helping families make the most of their vacations!