Erica Shaffer at Wishes & Co. Travel Planning

06/11/2026

If convenience had a five-star rating, Helios Grand Hotel would be pretty close.

The biggest perk? You're not just near Epic Universe... you're staying at the only hotel with its own dedicated entrance into the park. That means less time getting there and more time riding, exploring, and pretending you're definitely going to skip "just one more ride."

Beyond the location, Helios brings a more elevated feel with gorgeous spaces, upscale amenities, and the kind of resort you actually look forward to coming back to after a full park day.

Is it the right fit for every vacation? Maybe not.

But if you're looking to turn a Universal trip into something a little more special, Helios might just be worth the splurge.

And if you're trying to decide between Helios, Stella Nova, Terra Luna, or one of the other Universal resorts, that's exactly the kind of vacation puzzle I love helping families solve!

06/11/2026

🎧 New Episode Alert 🎧

Behind every runDisney runner is someone cheering them on, adjusting plans, setting an early alarm, or waiting with a hug at the finish line. In this episode, we’re talking about all the ways family and friends can make race weekend even more memorable, from supporting those early training runs to navigating expo day, race morning, and everything in between.

We’re sharing simple ways to show up for your runner, what they really appreciate most, and why the little things often have the biggest impact. Whether you’re running or you’re the designated cheer squad, this episode is full of tips to help make the entire runDisney experience a little more magical.

🎧 Give it a listen and let me know: What’s the best support you’ve ever received, or given, during a runDisney weekend?

Podcast Episode · Once Upon A Park · June 11 · 1h 23m

06/10/2026

If you're planning a trip to Epic Universe but don't want your hotel to eat up your souvenir budget, I've got good news.

Stella Nova and Terra Luna check a lot of boxes. Modern rooms, fun theming, and a location that's tough to beat when you're spending your days exploring the parks.

They're quickly becoming two of my favorite recommendations for families who want the Universal resort experience without the premium price tag.

The best part? You don't have to spend hours comparing every hotel option. That's what I'm here for. Let's find the one that fits your family, your budget, and your vacation style!

06/10/2026

Trying to decide which Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Party is right for your family? Here's the cheat sheet!

🎆Pre-Party Dessert Party
You eat first, fireworks second.

You'll head to Tomorrowland Terrace for desserts, cheeses, fruit, and drinks before Happily Ever After. When it's time for the show, Cast Members will es**rt you to a reserved standing area in the Plaza Garden.

This is the option for people who like to have everything checked off the list before the fireworks start. Grab your treats, find your spot, and just enjoy the show.

🎆Post-Party Dessert Party
Fireworks first, dessert second.

You'll check in before Happily Ever After and still get the same reserved standing viewing area in the Plaza Garden. After the fireworks are over, you'll head back to Tomorrowland Terrace for desserts while a good chunk of the crowd is already making their way out of the park.

If you'd rather eat without feeling rushed and don't mind a later dessert, this is a great choice.

🎆Seats & Sweets
This is the upgraded version.

You still get the dessert buffet, but instead of standing in the Plaza Garden, you'll watch Happily Ever After from a seat on the Tomorrowland Terrace patio. No staking out a spot, no standing shoulder to shoulder with strangers, and no wondering if someone six feet tall is about to stop in front of you.

So which one would I choose? I think it comes down to one question: Do you want to stand or sit?

If you're perfectly happy standing and want to save a little money, either the Pre-Party or Post-Party is a solid choice. If having an actual chair during the fireworks sounds like the best money you'll spend all vacation, Seats & Sweets is worth the upgrade.

Prices currently start at:
• Pre-Party: $99 adults / $59 children (3-9)
• Post-Party: $99 adults / $59 children (3-9)
• Seats & Sweets: $124 adults / $74 children (3-9)

The experience runs about 2 hours, and remember that park admission is still required and not included with the party reservation, menus can change, and fireworks are always weather permitting.

06/09/2026

Donald Duck has been perfecting the art of the temper tantrum for almost 100 years, and I wouldn't have him any other way.

One meet and greet he might be giving you a big hug, and the next he's crossing his arms because you looked at Mickey first. You truly never know what you're going to get, and that's what makes meeting Donald so much fun.

If character hugs, unforgettable moments, and a little bit of duck sized attitude are on your Disney vacation wishlist, I'm always happy to help you plan the magic!

06/09/2026

Okay Princesses, registration day is done, and now the real magic starts to come together 👑✨🏃‍♀️

Princess Half Marathon Weekend 2027 room & ticket packages are officially open, which means it’s time to take your race entry and turn it into the full runDisney getaway you’ve been dreaming about at Walt Disney World Resort!

When you book your racecation package with me, each room gets a personalized Runner Welcome Basket waiting for them at their Disney resort. It’s my way of kicking off your weekend with a little extra magic and a lot less stress.

Think simple, helpful, and race-week ready:

✨ Snacks and easy grab-and-go fuel for early mornings
✨ Recovery treats for those post-race legs
✨ A few thoughtful extras to make the weekend smoother
✨ Delivered right to your resort by me (because I’ll be there for all three races)!

And beyond the goodies, I help you with all the moving pieces that make or break race weekend: resorts, park days, dining, transportation, timing everything so it actually feels easy instead of overwhelming.

All you have to focus on is training, getting excited, and planning that post-finish line celebration meal 🍝🏅✨

If you’re ready to lock in your Princess Half Marathon Weekend 2027 racecation, now is the time to grab your room & ticket package before availability starts to tighten!

📧 [email protected]
📱 (615) 334-0155

06/09/2026

You don't need to book an excursion to have an amazing day at Castaway Cay!

Here's my budget friendly game plan:

☀️ Grab a beach chair and enjoy the beautiful beaches
🌊 Swim, relax, and soak up that crystal-clear water
🍔 Enjoy the complimentary BBQ lunch included with your cruise
🚲 Explore the island by foot (or rent a bike if you want a little adventure)
🏖️ Float in the lagoon, visit Pelican Plunge, or simply enjoy some island downtime
🥤 Take advantage of the free soda stations around the island
📸 Snap plenty of photos and enjoy the Disney magic without spending extra
🏃🏼‍♀️ Run/walk the free 5k and earn a medal!

Some of my favorite Castaway Cay days have been the ones with no plans at all. Just sunshine, ocean views, and a little slice of paradise. 🌴✨

06/08/2026

No trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge feels complete without a stop for Zebra Domes!

You can usually find these fan favorite treats at The Mara, Boma, and sometimes in the resort shops. I can attest, they're as delicious as everyone says they are!

These little bites of Disney magic are made with rich chocolate mousse, coated in white chocolate, and finished with those signature zebra stripes. They also contain Amarula Cream Liqueur, which gives them a unique flavor, but don't worry, you don't have to be 21+ to enjoy them.

When I think of Animal Kingdom Lodge, Zebra Domes are one of the very first things that come to mind. They're iconic, they're delicious, and they're a must try for any Disney foodie.

My rating? A solid 10/10.
Would I order them again? Absolutely.
Will I be thinking about them long after I leave Disney property? Also absolutely.

Have you tried Zebra Domes yet, or are they still on your Disney snack bucket list?

06/08/2026

Insert nervous laughter here.

06/08/2026

Good luck everyone! Let's hope for some pixie dust today (we're gonna need it)!