Capture Every Magical Moment

Your Essential Disney World Camera Accessories Packing Guide

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My Magical (and Not-So-Magical) Disney World Adventure

A lot has changed since 2017, but the magic still finds a way!

This might be a long read, but if I can help even one person plan their dream Disney trip, it's worth it! So much has transformed since our last visit to Disney World in 2017. We still made incredible memories, but my overall feeling is that Disney has strayed quite a bit from Walt Disney's original vision of an accessible, fun place for everyone.

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🌟 My Favorite Moments & Must-Haves from This Trip 🌟

Despite the changes, some aspects truly shone brighter than Tinker Bell's pixie dust!

• Disney Staff: The True Magic Makers!

  I don't even know where to begin! The dedication and care the Disney staff show their guests are simply unparalleled. On our very first day, during our first ride (the Haunted Mansion!), I actually passed out in the stretching room. I woke up surrounded by my family and compassionate Disney employees. They immediately closed off the room for my privacy, constantly checked on me, and offered First Aid or even calling Reedy Creek Fire Department. I knew it was just the heat, so I declined, but their swift response was incredible.

  They got me a wheelchair and wheeled me **backstage** (how cool is that?!), and then a Disney SUV, driven by an amazing employee, took us directly back to our hotel room. Every single person was phenomenal! As if that wasn't enough, they even gave my husband and daughter some free Lightning Lane passes so they could go back and enjoy Magic Kingdom while I rested. I genuinely cannot praise them enough.

• Minnie Vans: Your VIP Ride!

  This amenity is a game-changer! At the end of a long, hot, and tiring day, there's nothing better than ordering a Minnie Van. They pick you up right at any park or Disney Springs and whisk you away to your hotel, not just the main lobby, but directly to your building. Talk about convenience!

• The Skyliner: Gliding Through the Sky!

  Confession time: I was totally against using the Skyliner before this trip. But midway through our stay, we moved to Pop Century Resort and decided to give it a try for Disney's Hollywood Studios. OMG! It was such a quick and easy trip. The best part? Each family gets their own gondola! After being hot and tired from the crowds, it was so nice to just have that private, peaceful ride.

• The Disney App: Your Pocket-Sized Park Guide!

  This app was an absolute lifesaver in so many ways! From checking park times and instantly viewing Memory Maker photos to keeping track of our dining plan balance, knowing where to go next, and checking ride wait times – it did it all. I could go on and on; it has so many fantastic features that make navigating the parks a breeze.

• Gluten-Free Food: A Celiac's Dream Come True!

  Our daughter has celiac disease, and finding safe gluten-free food when eating out can be incredibly challenging. Disney is a culinary haven for allergy sufferers! At *every* restaurant, including quick-service spots, there's an allergy chef available to speak with. They're incredibly knowledgeable about all allergies and will prepare fresh, safe meals. My daughter made it her mission to try as many gluten-free options as she could, and she was thrilled!

• Accessibility: Making Magic for Everyone!

  Unfortunately, I had a fall on our first day, which meant I couldn't walk long distances and needed a wheelchair or scooter. It was the last thing I wanted, but with the intense heat, it truly allowed me to experience all the parks with my family. Each park offers scooter or wheelchair rentals right at the entrance. A fun fact I learned: when you rent a scooter, it's yours for the entire day! If you need to leave and come back, they'll hold it for you, which was incredibly helpful. They also provide complimentary wheelchairs to get to the buses. Magic Kingdom even has complimentary wheelchairs by all the bus areas, making arrivals and departures super convenient.

• Hollywood & Vine Disney Jr. Breakfast: Pure Heartwarming Joy!

  Even though we have a teenager now, she's a Disney kid at heart! We absolutely adore this breakfast, and I honestly think anyone with small children who watch Disney Jr. *needs* to experience it. The characters were fantastic! This time, we saw Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, Fancy Nancy, and Goofy. At one point, we saw Fancy Nancy sitting on the floor playing with some kids. It was truly heartwarming and brought tears to my eyes.

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💔 Not-So-Favorite Aspects of This Trip 💔

Not everything was pixie dust and rainbows, and some changes definitely made us sigh.

• No More Magical Express from the Airport: A Beloved Service Gone!

  This was such an incredible perk! You'd land in Orlando, hop on a dedicated bus, and be transported directly to your resort. You never had to worry about your luggage; it was delivered straight to your room, no waiting at baggage claim. The absence of this service was keenly felt.

• Lightning Lane: Pay-to-Play Frustration!

  In essence, Lightning Lane is a way to pay to jump ahead of the lines. It's incredibly confusing to use, and if you wait until you're already at Disney, it's often too late – all the good times will be gone. And let's be honest, for the most popular rides where you'd actually consider paying to skip the line, there's rarely a Lightning Lane readily available, or it comes at a premium price. It feels like a fundamental shift away from the inclusive Disney experience.

• The Disney App (Again!): Head-Down Experience

  I know some people are just glued to their phones, and that's life now. But how do you walk through Disney with your head constantly buried in your phone? You're missing out on the sights, the sounds, the smells – *everything* that makes Disney magical! While the app is helpful, it encourages an experience that pulls you away from the present moment.

• Be Our Guest Restaurant: Missing the Beast!

  We absolutely love dining here; the food is fantastic, and yes, it's expensive, but it's vacation, it's Disney, right? We were so disappointed this time to find out you can no longer meet the Beast for pictures. He walks through the dining room during your meal but doesn't come to tables, and you can't get his autograph or a photo with him. This feels like a significant downgrade for such a special dining experience.

• Port Orleans Riverside Resort: The Long Haul!

  We've stayed at this resort twice, and I swear both times our room was as far from the dining area as humanly possible! I genuinely don't love how massive this resort is. After walking miles in the parks all day, the last thing you want is another mile just to grab a drink or visit the gift shop. I also really dislike their dining hall – it didn't feel clean, the service was poor, and the food options weren't great. Maybe it's because they have other restaurants on property, but with kids, you just want a good, quick meal. On our first day, we didn't have the dining plan and just wanted a drink. The cashier didn't have any disposable cups visible, and even though I asked, he upsold us on refillable mugs. Then we sat down and saw others with disposable cups and felt completely duped!

• Accessibility (One Glitch): Magic Kingdom's Lead!

  While accessibility was largely fantastic (as mentioned above!), one thing we noticed was that Magic Kingdom is the *only* park that has wheelchairs readily available at the bus stations within the parks. This would be a huge improvement if implemented across all parks.

• Disney Springs Security: The Bottleneck Blues!

  Security is crucial, and I appreciate it as a vital part of the Disney experience. My complaint isn't about security itself, but about the setup at Disney Springs. The resort buses now drop you off at the "new" end of Disney Springs, forcing everyone through one security checkpoint. All buses from all resorts funnel into the same spot, and the line just wraps around and around. We were lucky enough to get stuck in that line during a downpour, so by the time we got through, we were absolutely soaked! There has to be a more efficient way to organize this to minimize wait times. Also, what happened to being able to get dropped off at the "old" Disney Springs, where all the unique stores are?

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💡 Smart Tips & Tricks for Beating the Heat! 💡

Disney in the summer means heat! Here are some tried-and-true strategies to stay cool and comfortable:

• Portable Fans or Neck Fans: Your Personal Breeze!

  These are a lifesaver! A constant breeze can make a world of difference when you're waiting in lines or strolling through the parks.

• Cooling Towels: Instant Relief!

  Disney sells them for $20, but you can find them much cheaper on Amazon. You wet them, store them in your fridge overnight, and then when you're at the parks and feeling the heat, drape them around your neck or arms. They cool you down surprisingly fast! A friend also suggested wetting face cloths from your room, putting them in the fridge, and then carrying them in a bag of ice – genius!

• Neck Strap for Your Cell Phone: Hands-Free Fun!

  I saw so many people with their phones on long straps around their necks. If you're constantly taking pictures, this makes your phone incredibly accessible. Being in a scooter, reaching into my bag for my phone was a hassle, so this is definitely on my list for the next trip!

• Hand Sanitizer: A Must-Have!

  Always keep some handy. You'll be touching a lot of surfaces, and it's essential for staying germ-free.

• Water: Hydration is Key!

  We had a case of water delivered to our room by Garden Grocer, and it was fantastic! We kept our fridge stocked and brought 3 or 4 bottles each to the parks every day. Staying hydrated is non-negotiable in the Florida heat.

• Rain Ponchos: Embrace the Afternoon Showers!

  It rains almost every afternoon in Disney, and while it helps cool things down, you *will* get soaked! Having a poncho means you can keep enjoying the parks. Just be prepared to feel a bit chilly when you duck into air-conditioned shops or rides afterward.

• Sunscreen: Don't Forget to Reapply!

  I brought it but forgot to bring it *into* the park for the first day or so, and guess what? I got burned! Remember to pack it in your park bag and reapply frequently throughout the day. Your skin will thank you!

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The magic of Disney is undeniably real. And just like every time, we cried when we left, already dreaming of our next adventure!

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Flying JetBlue from Boston to Walt Disney World

Traveling with Technology on JetBlue

Traveling from Boston, Massachusetts, to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is an exciting journey, especially when flying with JetBlue Airways. Known for its customer-focused approach and innovative in-flight technology, JetBlue offers a range of features to enhance your travel experience. This blog post explores what you can expect when flying JetBlue, focusing on the technology amenities available, such as cellphone charging and in-flight entertainment audio options.

JetBlue's In-Flight Technology Features

JetBlue is renowned for its industry-leading in-flight amenities, designed to make your flight comfortable and entertaining. Below, we dive into the key technology features you'll encounter on your journey from Boston's Logan International Airport (BOS) to Orlando International Airport (MCO).

1. In-Flight Entertainment with Blueprint by JetBlue

JetBlue was the first airline to offer personalized in-flight entertainment at every seat, and its latest innovation, Blueprint by JetBlue, takes this to the next level. On newer aircraft like the Airbus A320 Restyled, A321, and A321neo, you'll find 10.1-inch high-definition touchscreen seatback screens. Mint class passengers enjoy even larger 15-inch screens. These screens provide access to over 100 DirecTV channels, on-demand movies, TV shows, and content from streaming services like Peacock, thanks to JetBlue's partnership with NBCUniversal.

A standout feature of Blueprint is the "Watch Party," which allows up to six passengers to sync and watch the same movie or show, even if they're not seated together. To start a Watch Party, select your content, choose the Watch Party option, and invite others using the seat map displayed on your screen. You can control playback (pause, play, rewind) to keep everyone in sync. Additionally, the "Pick up where you left off" feature lets you resume watching content on a connecting or return flight, and personalized recommendations suggest content based on your viewing history.

On older aircraft, such as the E190 or A320 Classic, entertainment options are slightly more limited, offering about 36 DirecTV channels and three movie choices without touchscreens or in-seat power. Always check your aircraft type when booking to know what to expect.

2. Cellphone Charging Capabilities

Keeping your devices charged is crucial, especially for a trip to Walt Disney World where you'll likely use your phone for park tickets, Disney's MagicBand, and the My Disney Experience app. JetBlue's newer aircraft (A320 Restyled, A321, and A321neo) are equipped with USB power outlets at every row, and some even offer AC power outlets. These allow you to charge your cellphone, tablet, or other devices during the flight. However, older aircraft like the E190 and A320 Classic may not have in-seat power, so consider bringing a portable charger for these flights.

To ensure your device stays powered, check the aircraft type when booking. You can find this information on JetBlue's website or by contacting their customer service. If you're in Mint class, power outlets are standard, ensuring your devices are ready for your Disney adventure upon landing.

3. Audio Options for In-Flight Entertainment

To enjoy the audio from your seatback screen, you'll need wired headphones with a standard 3.5mm jack. JetBlue's entertainment systems do not currently support Bluetooth headphones, so wireless options like AirPods won't work directly with the seatback screens. You can bring your own wired headphones (such as those included with older iPhone models) or purchase headphones on board for around $6. If you prefer using Bluetooth headphones, you can purchase a Bluetooth transmitter that plugs into the 3.5mm jack on the seatback screen and pairs with your wireless headphones. Look for a device like this one: Amazon Bluetooth Transmitter.

JetBlue provides over 100 SiriusXM radio channels for music, news, and entertainment, accessible through the seatback screen or The Hub, JetBlue's platform for streaming content on your personal device. To access The Hub, connect to JetBlue's free Fly-Fi Wi-Fi, then browse movies, shows, magazines, or e-books. Mint class passengers receive custom Master & Dynamic MH40 noise-isolating headphones, enhancing the audio experience.

4. Free Fly-Fi Wi-Fi

JetBlue offers free, high-speed Fly-Fi Wi-Fi on all its aircraft, allowing you to stay connected during your flight. This gate-to-gate service uses Ka-band satellite technology, enabling streaming, browsing, and messaging. You can use Fly-Fi to access The Hub for additional entertainment or stream content from services like Amazon Prime Video (via the Amazon Video app) or Peacock. Free in-flight messaging is also available through apps like iMessage, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger, so you can coordinate with family or friends in Orlando.

To make the most of Fly-Fi, ensure your device is charged or plugged in, as streaming can drain your battery. This feature is particularly useful for checking Disney park reservations or FastPass+ selections en route.

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Main Street USA Changes in Seven Year

Changes that We\'ll Likely Notice

Hey Disney fans!

If, like me, your last visit to Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom was back in February 2017, you're in for some delightful surprises when you return in June 2025! A lot has happened in the heart of Walt Disney World, and Main Street has seen its fair share of updates and enhancements. Let's take a stroll down memory lane and preview what awaits you.

Main Street USA - February 4, 2017

A Nostalgic Look Back: February 2017

Think back to your last visit. In 2017, Main Street was still basking in the glow of the 2016 holiday season. The Citizens of Main Street were entertaining guests, the Dapper Dans were harmonizing, and the classic charm was as strong as ever. But time marches on, even in the Magic Kingdom.

What's New on Main Street, U.S.A.?

Since 2017, Disney has been continuously enhancing the Main Street experience. Here are some of the key changes you'll notice:

Enhanced Entertainment

While the Dapper Dans and Citizens of Main Street remain, keep an eye out for updated character interactions and performances. Disney is always evolving its entertainment offerings to keep things fresh.

Look for the newer cavalcades that are more frequent than the full parades of the past. These offer a more spontaneous feel, and allow for more character appearances throughout the day.

Window Updates

The iconic windows of Main Street are a tribute to the Imagineers and key figures who shaped Disney. While it's tough to pinpoint every single window change without a comprehensive list, Disney does update them periodically.

Keep a close eye out for new names, especially those honoring recent Imagineering contributions. It's a fun game to try and spot the new additions.

Refurbishments and Enhancements

Main Street is a living, breathing part of the park. Regular refurbishments keep it looking its best. Expect to see fresh paint, updated facades, and meticulous attention to detail.

The train station has seen a large amount of updates, and looks better than ever.

Food and Merchandise

While the core dining experiences remain, keep an eye out for seasonal treats and updated menus at places like Casey's Corner and the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor.

The Main Street Confectionery has been re-imagined. It is now a much more open and interactive experience.

The Emporium is always changing its merchandise, so expect to see new items that reflect the latest Disney trends.

Technological Integrations

Disney has been integrating technology into the park experience. Expect to see enhanced lighting, sound, and potentially new interactive elements.

The use of the My Disney Experience app has become even more important.

What to Look For in 2025

Pay attention to the details: Main Street is all about the little things. Look for hidden Mickeys, listen to the background music, and soak in the atmosphere.

Enjoy the entertainment: Take time to watch the cavalcades, listen to the Dapper Dans, and interact with the Citizens of Main Street.

Explore the shops: Browse the Emporium, check out the Confectionery, and find unique souvenirs.

Capture the memories: Take plenty of photos and videos to document your visit.

Use the My Disney Experience App: This app will be your best friend for show times, wait times, and mobile ordering.

Looking Ahead to June 2025

By the time you arrive in June 2025, Disney will likely have introduced even more exciting changes. Keep an eye on official Disney announcements and fan blogs for the latest updates.

Main Street, U.S.A. is a timeless treasure, but it's also a place that evolves with the times. We're excited for you to experience the magic and see the changes for yourself!

See you real soon!

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Relaunching My Disney Blog

A Journey Back to the Magic

We are going back! Seven Years after our last visit!

It's been a while since my Disney blog, Cryan's Disney, last saw the light of day. However, with the excitement of our family's upcoming Disney adventure, now feels like the perfect time for a grand relaunch. Here's what you can expect from the new look and feel of our magical space!

Why Now?

It's been seven years since our last visit to Disney, and in that time, not only has Disney evolved with new rides, experiences, and stories, but our family has grown as well. Our kid are older now, and their first Disney memories are but a hazy dream. This trip isn't just about revisiting the magic; it's about creating new memories, exploring through fresh eyes, and sharing that journey with you.

The Great Move Ride is no longer there - but there are a lot of new ride at the Disney Studios.

Content Strategy: A Fresh Start

Pre-Trip Excitement:

• Fun Facts and Trivia: (Starting in January ) Every week, we'll dive into little-known Disney facts, helping not just us but all of you get a taste of the magic early. From the history behind the parks to fun Easter eggs in Disney movies, we'll cover it all.
• Behind-the-Scenes: Exclusive content on how Disney prepares for the influx of visitors, park planning tips, and insights into the magic that happens behind the scenes.

Post-Trip Reflections - -

• Photo Diaries and Video Recaps: A visual feast of our best moments, captured in photos and videos.
• What We Learned: Post-trip insights, including what we'd do differently, what worked wonders, and how Disney has changed or stayed the same.

Design and Aesthetics

The blog's look will get a magical makeover, reflecting the timeless yet ever-evolving spirit of Disney. Expect:

• A cleaner, more user-friendly interface.
• Visuals that pop, with high-quality images and perhaps a touch of animation to bring the blog to life.
• A dedicated section for our trip planning resources, where we'll share our itineraries, packing lists, and tips.
• What cameras we may purchase for this trip.

Lots of changes at the Haunted Mansion. What will my daughter think of the Hatbox Ghost?

Conclusion

This relaunch is more than just updating a blog; it's about reigniting a passion for storytelling, sharing, and experiencing the Disney magic. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney - goer, our blog aims to be your companion in all things magical. Join us as we count down to our trip, share in our excitement, and perhaps, along the way, inspire your own Disney journey.

Stay tuned, and let's make magic together!

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50 Days to Go

Today marks 50 days to August 9th.

What's so special about August 9th 2019? It's the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney's Haunted Mansion.

When Disneyland opened the doors on August 9, 1969, guests were treated to ride the Haunted Mansion for the first time. The ride is pretty much the same today as it was back then. Which is amazing when you consider all the new technology that has come about in the past 50 years.

As a huge Haunted Mansion fan, I put together a blog post with some fun facts about the Haunted Mansion that I learned over the years. I am thinking of putting together a special post for August 9th.

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Top 7 Disney Post of 2017

List of the most popular Disney Post of 2017

This year Disney blog posts started off exciting as we took a nice week-long vacation in early February. We spent time researching various sites and attractions just to get a taste of the magic.

On our vacation, we gathered a lot of great material for future blog postings. It was fun walking through the park looking for ideas.

We are not planning on going back until 2019, so the motivation to do Disney posts wasn't there towards the end of the year.

We still manage to get interesting Disney content every Monday. We have decided to pause the Disney content for a few months. It was fun to look back and see what we did get out and how we might have approached the various topics differently.

Here are the top seven Disney post for 2017, in no particular order.

• Leave a Legacy - We saw the large stones in front of Epcot but never knew much about them.
• Palm Parlor - One of our favorite Disneyland Main Street attractions.
• Tom Sawyer Island - it was fun learning more about the island.
• Disney Rapid-Fill Mug - we use the mug every day. Now we know what those lines are for in the mug.
• Disney Springs - We know that its better to get two tokens instead of one.
• Bippity Boppity Boutique - We were disappointed about our Bippity Bop experience and probably won't do it again.
• Finding Cinderella's Horse - This was a fun to discover before our trip and to see the horse in person without others guests having the same knowledge. We knew which horse to ride on the Carousel.

Looking foward to adding some new content next year. If you have any topics that you wished to be covered let us know via the comments below or via the feedback form.

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Last Day in the Park

Some ideas on planning your last day in the Disney Park

The toughest part of vacation is realizing its over. You are about to embark to the park for the last full day of vacation.

Before you start your day, here are some things to think about that will help get the most out of your last vacation day.

Plan Your Last Day in The Park

• Check your leftover snack points
• Check pictures - Have they come out well?
• Check Bounce back
• Check suitcase. Make sure there’s no surprises when you leave.
• Make a list of rides and things to buy.

Check your Snack Points

If you're on the Meal Plan, check your snack points. You may have a lot of snack points - don’t let them go to waste by using them on snacks at your hotel Lobby. (Really your going to use a Disney Snack point on Snickers?) Know how many snack points you have available before you head to the park. At the end of the day, If you do have any remaining, check out the candy shop on Main Street for a better snack collection.

Dont eat candy? Disney Snacks make great gifts.

Check your Photos

Make sure you have all the pictures that you intended to take. Make sure you got the pictures that you wanted. You don't want to be checking the pictures at home only to find out that you didn't get any good pictures of Mickey.

Bounce Back Program

If your staying on property Disney offers a special discount if you book your return trip before you leave. This is usually the cheapest way to book an on property hotel. Check the booklet in your room, or call the front desk details.

Quick Suitcase Test

Here's an idea that you probably didn't think of...

Did you buy too many souvenirs on this trip? Why not do a quick packing test to see how you're planning to get things home. This would be a good time to check, as if you can find out if need to mail things home or buy another bag. In addition, it's a good way to know if you have room for that souvenir you been thinking about. (Do you have room for that unique souvenir bucket?)

Make the Group Task List

What rides or shows do people in your party want to do on the last day? Getting everyone involve will make it a fun day.

This would be a good conversation to have over breakfast. Take out the park map and start circling the key points.

Have Fun

Make the most of the last day, and be excited to come back to the park on your next vacation.

If you have any good tip please leave them in the comments below.

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Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom

General information about the Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom

Did you know that inside the Magic Kingdom is a hidden game where kids can become heroes and defeat the evildoers that are lurking around the kingdom. It's called Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom and it's become very popular.

Important Details:

• Sign up for the game at the Firehouse at Main Street, U.S.A.
• Players will receive one map and pack of spell cards per day.
• Missions last from 20 to 30 minutes, sometimes longer depending on degree of difficulty.
• Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom is included in your theme park admission.

Things I have learned

• This games is especially fun for anyone that is learning to read (1st and 2nd Graders). It's a great way to get them to use their new learning skills to work.
• If you are going to the Magic Kingdom over multiple days, get the card/map on the way out the first day, that way the kids can learn about all the clues to the game to play the next day.
• You get the cards and Merlin's Map at the Firehouse on Main Street USA. You start by going to the first portal in the Firehouse and holding up the Sorcerer Key Card to unlock and gain access. The Castmember at the firehouse will explain all the rules.
• Playing the Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom is a great way to use up time in-between fast pass rides.
• As a parent, feel free to ask a cast member for help solving the puzzle. Nothing wrong with asking for help!
• The game cards are very collectible! Make sure you save them especially during major events, such as Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. There are also special cards for anniversaries such as the "Country Bear Jamboree."

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Disney Slack Images

Disney emoji collection for Slack

Slack is a popular corporate chat communication tool. Companies like it because employees can communicate with each other in an instant. (As if the old way of phone calls and walking up to people is totally outdated.

One of the cool features of Slack is the use of emoji as reaction icons. So someone can make a simple comment, and people can react to it. (Better than everyone cluttering the chat log with 'I agree.')

There aren't any default icons in Slack for Disney enthusiasts. Fortunately you can add your own! Slack provides all the information to make that happen.

Here are six Disney icons that are ready to be used in Slack. All of these images are using the required 128x128 image size.

Click on image to download Zip collection.

In the collection are:

• Mickey Mouse Ears Silhouette
• Epcot Disney Symbol
• Donald Duck
• Hey Mickey
• Typical Mickey Stance
• Minnie Mouse
• Point Right
• Point Left

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