Beauty and the Beast Live Action Review

 
I've been thinking about reviewing Disney's latest live action offering, Beauty and the Beast, ever since I watched it. While I would rather it be in video format I don't really have much time to sit down and film at the moment, so thought I would write a blog post on my thoughts about the film while its still relevant.Now I'm not someone who reviews movies, so bare with me through my turbulent thought process as this is going to be far from a perfectly written review.

Beauty and the Beast has been one of the most anticipated films for quite a long while, even before casting was confirmed. I am always a little hesitant about Disney live action films, especially after seeing how they butchered my favourite villain, Maleficent. My faith was restored by Cinderella, which I think was done beautifully, but I was still a little on the fence when Beauty and the Beast was announced. I wasn't surprised when Emma Watson was cast as Belle, not really seeing a reason why she shouldn't be, even if the Harry Potter nerd in me was screaming "She will never not be Hermione!" Fast forward to the first trailer release, and I found myself rather excited. However, as more trailers and clips were released, the more disappointed I became. I just wasn't at all that bothered. Now here is where the real review begins. Sitting in the cinema with my friends, a fanta ice blast and some salted popcorn, I tried to go into it with no judgements.

The first thing I have to say is that Belle was the weakest part of the whole film. I found her lackluster, her auto tuned singing awful without any sort of emotion and her acting rather stagnant. Then comes her chemistry, or lack of, with the Beast. I just didn't see any sort of connection between them at all. Everything felt forced. Let's not even talk about that ballroom scene that had me cringing so hard that I had to cover my eyes at one point. I mean, I know that at the end of the day it must be incredibly difficult for an actress to show emotion towards a cgi beast, but I just expected more. Did anyone else also hear that random growl made by human beast at the end of the film? NO NO NO! I just cant even. 

Now let's talk about the strongest part of the whole film. Gaston and Lefou. These two literally made the whole film for me. Their character development was shown so well and I found myself waiting with anticipation for their next scene. What I love about Luke Evans' portrayal of Gaston in particular, is that he was shown exactly as I imagine Gaston to be. In reality, the character of Gaston is the worst Disney villain of all, as he could be anyone. He is the most realistic. He portrays the real issue of domestic abuse. At the start of the film I almost found myself feeling sorry for him and half rooting for him. That is, until he doesn't get his own way and snaps, becoming a vicious monster. You can see in parts him trying to control his temper and manipulate those around him to get what he wants. It actually makes me kinda nervous about how many people gush over Gaston as he is truly a horrific person. 
Lefou is another character who really impressed me, having so much more personality in the live action than was ever given to him in the animation. Josh Gad really made Lefou his own and I found his little quips hilariously sassy. Their chemistry together was outstanding and their scenes made me feel so many things from pity to anger to empowerment, at Lefou's actions in the castle.

Other stand out performances included Maurice, who I really connected with and felt for during the film; the duo of Lumiere and Cogsworth, who else belly laughed at that one liner by Ian McKellan at the end; and Plumette, who was never a stand out character in the animation but had a more central role in the live action. 

The story itself generally followed that of the original film, but gave us more of a backstory to Belles life, which I loved. Having those unanswered questions included within the plot made me connect to the story more and I really enjoyed hearing more about Belle and Beasts families. I also enjoyed how the characters within the castle had relatives in the village and really like the fan theory currently circulating, that the village was frozen in time along with those in the castle.

The cinematography of the film was simply breathtaking. The visuals were one of the most redeeming qualities about the film, being an absolute joy for my eyes. The "Be Our Guest" scene was one of my favourites of the whole movie, it looking and sounding incredible. Speaking of sound, I do have to say that i wasn't a fan of the new songs. I just found them a bit dull and uninspiring. The song everyone is gushing about, Evermore I believe it's called, was just super unnecessary for me and I found myself wishing it would hurry up and be over.

Overall I did enjoy Beauty and the Beast, but it was just okay. I am a total Emma Watson fan, but she just wasn't Belle. Belle and Beast just didn't live up to my expectations. The rest of the film, amazing, but with the main characters not being a highlight, I just don't find myself loving the film. By all means it wasn't bad, but it wasn't perfect either. 

What did you think of the Beauty and the Beast live action adaptation? Did you love it or find it just okay?

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Jane Porter Cosplay

Cosplay has always been something i've been interested in, but never actually taken part in, being someone who tended to admire fabulous costumes from afar. I'm not that savvy with a sewing machine, nor really have the time to learn, and to buy outfits can work out expensive. However, having decided upon visiting Disneyland Paris for the Halloween Soiree I knew I wanted to "do it properly" and what better character to dress up as than my favourite, Jane Porter. Anyone who knows me knows of my love for Tarzan, so Jane was at the top of my list. 

Firstly I had to find someone who would make the dress. After abit of a google search and a browse on Etsy, I decided to message the lovely Bel from Closet Geek. I had seen alot of her work before as she makes the outfits for Amy and her daughter, so was confident that she would create something perfect! We had a few back and forth emails, agreeing on a material, time frame, some examples of what I wanted, my measurements and pricing. The result was this gorgeous dress that met all my expectations and more. Add a few accessories and I'm as close to Jane Porter as I'm going to get! I think for the future I definitely want to add to it by having shoe covers and a "poofier" petticoat, maybe a bit of shoulder padding. It was such a surreal evening and so many people stopped me to take my photo (awkward but fun). What a fabulous first step into the world of cosplay.

Have you ever cosplayed a Disney character before? Who would you most like to cosplay?

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Donald Duck Disneybound

Last year was a pretty good year for Disneybounds and I really fell in love with the movement, especially when visiting Disney Parks. There's something about channeling your favourite characters in every day life that really inspires me, as I'm far from fashionable. I was lucky enough to spend my 25th birthday in Disneyland Paris, so really wanted to make an effort with my outfit. What better way to do that, than Disneybounding my favourite character, Donald Duck.
This was such a simple outfit to put together and apart from the shoes, pretty cheap. Practically everything is from ebay!

Top: Primark
Skirt: Topshop (Ebay)
Belt: Ebay
Tights: Ebay
Choker: Ebay
Shoes: Converse
Bow: ExtraSweetBowtique on Etsy

The day was absolutely amazing, being gorgeous weather and having the best time with my mum. This was my first time spending my birthday in a disney park and I cant believe im going to be lucky enough to spend my 26th in Walt Disney World. A new tradition maybe?

What character would you like to Disneybound?

xox

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IM MOVING TO WALT DISNEY WORLD | Cultural Representative Program 2017-2018

So as the title suggests, I'm moving back to Orlando! On December 5th 2016 I received the email that I had been accepted onto Walt Disney World's Cultural Representative Program and on June 12th 2017, will be heading to Florida for a whole year to work in the UK Pavilion within Epcot! It has been my dream since completing my ICP in 2013, to go back and work for the mouse and it's finally happening. To be honest, it's still not fully sunk in and I don't think it will until I am sitting on that plane ready to begin the most magical year of my life. 
As always I will be vlogging my whole experience, which you can check out on my YouTube Channel and hopefully keeping upto date on my Disney International Programs Blog which I started back before my ICP.

 

“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue”  

- Walt Disney

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Auberge de Cendrillon | Vegan in Disneyland Paris

 

 

Auberge de Cendrillion has been one of the restaurants in Disneyland Paris that I have most wanted to visit for a while. Of course, since becoming Vegan back in January I knew that it was unlikely that I was going to be eating a culinary masterpiece from there seeing as Disneyland Paris isn't as clued up about vegan eating as its American counterparts, but the food isn't all we do these expensive dinners for is it? Auberge de Cendrillion is a character dining experience in which you visit with three princesses, one prince and Cinderella's mice friends Suzie and Perla. In my opinion, these character meals are a great way to meet several characters in a short space of time without having to wait in long queues. Upon our arrival I spoke to my server informing him that I didn't eat any meat, dairy, fish or eggs and asked what they could make for me. At first he was a little confused but eventually he advised that I could have the vegetarian starter, just without the sauce. The main was a little more tricky, but seeing a spaghetti and sauce dish on the children's menu I asked if he could check if that was suitable and if I could have that in an adult portion. Luckily it was and he offered to put some vegetables on the side for me. One thing I did notice about ADC is that service seemed a little slow. We were waiting around for about 20 minuets before our order was even taken, same with ordering a pudding as well (by the time it arrived the place was empty and we had to rush to see the parade in time). Speaking of pudding, as everything on the menu contained dairy I just opted for a fruit salad. The food its self was nothing special. I really enjoyed the starter which was grilled vegetables with salad. The main was very basic as expected, but I enjoyed it none the less while the vegetables I was presented with on the side were again, pretty basic. The pudding was a standard bowl of fruit with orange juice.

 

 

As I said, I didn't expect anything amazing from the food here. It was basic, but filled a hole and I didn't dislike it. I came here for the experience, getting to meet the characters, watching the princesses dance and experiencing the beautiful dining room. One thing I noticed was that the tables were placed really close together so you were practically sitting with the party next to you. Funnily enough though, we actually started chatting to a lovely lady from the Netherlands named Paula, that was sitting on the table next to us and we discovered we actually already followed each other on Instagram and know of a few of the same people in the twitter Disneyland Paris community. Pretty small world eh?

Overall I don't think I would be rushing back to Auberge de Cendrillion any time soon as I've eaten much better food elsewhere, and for the price of €69 per person, I just wouldn't be able to justify it. If they were to add a Vegan option to the menu I would definitely consider returning (or if they could guarantee Ariel & Eric or Belle & Human Beast would be there haha)!

Have you ever been to Auberge de Cendrillion?

xox

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Working for the Mouse | Not So Secret Cast Member Rules

 

 

If you have followed me for a while you will know that in summer 2013 I was a cast member at Walt Disney World, so today I am going to share with you some "Rules" Disney has for employees and why most of these still apply to me today. Disney provides Cast Members with world class training and some of the things I was taught will stay with me forever.

1. The Disney Point. This is absolutely a thing. During training I was taught that we must only point or gesture using 2 fingers, as pointing with 1 can be considered rude in some cultures. I will now only ever point using 2 fingers, and I'm pretty sure most former cast members will agree that it just sticks.

2. Never say I don't know. It was drilled into us that were never to say "I don't know" to a guest if asked a question. Even if it was something we had no idea about, we had to radio the coordinators to find the answer.

3. The bend and scoop. Cast Members are encouraged to feel proud of their park both when working and when visiting as a guest, that meant picking up any litter hanging around. We were taught to do this in a particular way while walking, dubbed the bend a scoop, the name being pretty self explanatory for the action. Even though I am no longer a cast member, you will sometimes find me doing the bend and scoop in the parks while tutting and muttering about litterbugs.

4. Never break character onstage. This does not only apply to entertainment cast members, but everyone. From keeping a smile on your face to telling stories, we were all in character while on stage. Why is there a wire going from Cinderella's castle you ask? Well Prince Charming needs somewhere to hang his washing, doesn't he?

5. Disney Look. Disney are very strict on Cast Member grooming, which includes not having any visible tattoos or piercings (except 1 pair of studs in ears, female only), hair colour has to be natural and cannot show a difference of more than 2 shades (meaning no highlights or dip dyes, also dyed hair cannot have roots showing), men's hair cannot go below their ears, no extreme hairstyles, no jewelry (except a plain wedding band or religious symbols) and neat looking nails are among a few of the guidelines put in place. These are enforced, especially when becoming a new Cast Member. We were all "inspected" by a manager and if anyone was found to be not sporting the Disney Look they had to change it.

6. Make Magic. We were encouraged to always make magic for our guests. People spend thousands to come to Disney, and some may not ever make it back again, so making every moment count was key. From wishing someone a "Happy Birthday" to giving a free bucket of popcorn, it's the little things that keep people smiling during a hot, busy Florida summer.

7. Getting down to their level. Children are at the heart of Disney, and Cast Members are to treat them as equals. When talking to a child we were always to get down on one knee so we were at their level, making the child not feel talked down too, but like that are equally as important in a conversation. By making that child feel special and putting a smile on their face, it gives the parents a much needed break from a possible upcoming temper tantrum. 

Being a Cast Member really was one of the most magical experiences of my whole life and really helped me develop my skills in the workplace while giving me memories that will last a lifetime. If only I could re-live that summer again and again!

Have you ever been a Cast Member?

xox

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My Disney Confessions

After seeing Sam and Sarah do posts like this, I thought I would join in and share with you some of my Disney confessions. I've really dug deep for these and have never really admitted them out loud until now. Some, I'm even ashamed at myself for. Please don't hate/disown me!

1. I don't watch Disney movies very often. When I say very often, I mean I probably watch 1 every few months. While I do love the films, I'm just not a big movie person. I get bored so quickly and most of the time end up wandering off half way though. This goes for all movies of course, not just Disney.

2. I called Walt Disney World "Disneyland Florida" up until I was 20. The shame! It's now one of my biggest pet peeves  it's so shameful to admit that i made the same blasphemous mistakes in the past. These days I even correct people when they call it Disneyland. In fact, I only really started getting into Disney when I turned 21 and visited Disneyland Paris. Before then I wasn't massively fussed. Since then, a whole new world has opened to me and I feel like I've found my 'thing' in the Disney fandom.

3. I'm not a big fan of Toy Story. I know this is technically Pixar and was first released as such, but it falls under the Disney umbrella so totally counts. Anyway, I've just never really been into the franchise. Don't get me wrong, I don't dislike it, I just wouldn't choose to watch it or buy the merchandise.

4. I never go on Soarin'. I've been on it in the past, and it just doesn't interest me. I don't want to waste a fastpass on it nor wait in a long queue for it. I will probably try it again when the refurb is over, with the new theme/scenes, but I doubt it will "wow" me.

5. I really miss 'The Sorcerer's Hat" in Hollywood Studios. Some old school Disney fans may hate on the hat, but I loved it! It means so much more to me than the Chinese Theater, as I'm not a film person at all. I feel that it really linked with Fantasmic and just brought the park together a little more, although if it was still there now I doubt it would have brought that current mess of a park together at all.

Do you have any Disney confessions?

xox

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Counter Service Meals | Vegan in Disneyland Paris

One of the things I was most concerned about with being a Vegan at Disneyland Paris was the counter/quick service options. With table service it's easy enough to get something replaced or substituted, but most counter service meals are pre-made/made in bulk so it's harder to swap and change things. Luckily, I did manage to find some options that were meat, dairy and egg free. This, combined with some sit down meals, kept me well fed during my trip, although i would recommend taking some snacks for the hotel room/on the go munching.

Breakfast at Sequoia Lodge

The continental breakfast at Disney hotels, while very pastry and cold meat/cheese based, do offer quite a few vegan options. I did ask a cast member if any of the products I had contained any dairy/eggs, just incase, so as far as I am aware these items from the breakfast buffet are vegan. I pretty much got the same things everyday which included Frosties (frosties in europe are vegan friendly unlike their US counterparts), toast with jam and breadrolls dipped in chopped tomatoes that I used the microwave to heat up. I was also over the moon that soya milk is available so took advantage of stuffing myself full of cereal. There is also whole fruit and a fruit cocktail available, but the latter I wasn't a fan of as it tasted really bitter.

Earl of Sandwich 

 

Earl of Sandwich has always been one of my absolute favorite places to eat at Disney, usually opting for the Caprese (€6.95). I had heard that they can substitute items in their sandwiches so off we trotted, keeping my fingers crossed that my obsession with EOS wouldn't come to a devastating end. When reaching the order point I asked the lady if I could substitute the mozzarella cheese in the caprese for avocado, to which she replied "are you a vegan?" Wait what... someone who knows what a Vegan is? Oh praise Walt! She then proceeded to ask the manager if i could get the avocado at no extra cost as i wasn't having cheese (usually its extra), to which they agreed. The lady then told me that she was becoming a Vegan herself and that the rest of the sandwich is suitable. Needless to say by this point I was beaming. We power walked back to the hotel and I devoured my sandwich, which I do have to say, was absolutely amazing. I need another one in my life asap! 

Bella Notte 

Bella Norte is probably one of the only counter service locations in Disneyland Paris that has a Vegan meal already on the menu, that isn't salad or chips. The Rigatoni Napolitana (€8.99) is pretty much a pasta with tomato sauce, but its delicious! Simply yet satisfying. I had it twice during the trip, once as a meal (€11.99) with the side salad (the dressing for that is also vegan, having a white bean base for the light colouring). There is also a vegetarian salad that's vegan which my friend had and said its very good.

Market House Deli

Before I went to Disneyland Paris I read on a blog that the Bagnat aux légumes grillés (€6) served at Market House Deli had recently become Vegan friendly. It used to be made with pesto which contained dairy, but has since been replaced by an aubergine paste. The sandwich contains a medley of roasted vegetables and rocket, which combined with the paste makes a tasty lunch option. I'm not a big fan of wholemeal breads and seeds, but the filling sure made up for that.  I would double check that it isn't made with pesto in future, as recipes can change, i asked the lady on the till and she confirmed there was no pesto in it.

Snacks

 

 

I didn't have many snacks during this trip, mostly just devouring bucket loads of tea to counteract the cold weather. One evening I did treat myself to a bucket of popcorn, which the vendor said was made with popcorn kernels, sugar and vegetable oil. The popcorn in Walt Disney World is made this way and is suitable for vegans (I used to work on the popcorn stands in Magic Kingdom), so I'm pretty confident that Disneyland Paris follows suit. I also had a soya milk hot chocolate from Starbucks on the walk back to the hotel once or twice. There are also chips/fries available from most counter service locations which are great for a light lunch or for when you are feeling just a bit peckish, just ask to make sure they aren't cooked with the meat.

I do suggest you make your own enquiries when visiting Disneyland Paris, as recipes can change and language barriers can mean the wrong information is given. There isn't a massive selection of Vegan food as compared with the American parks, but it's a start and I hope in the future they will provide a lot more options for those with specific dietary requirements. Just know that you're not going to starve and that i would recommend doing your research before a visit.

xox

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Bistrot Chez Rémy | Vegan in Disneyland Paris

Rémy Menu: 1 Starter & 1 Main Course €29.99

 

Starter: Mixed leaf salad without cheese and without dressing.

 

 Main Course: Vegetable, tofu and white bean casserole without the sauce.

Eating Vegan is notoriously difficult in France, apparently its not really a "thing" there. So I was pretty nervous to whether I was going to be able to find something to eat during my recent Disneyland Paris trip. I've never really had a problem eating vegetarian there, so was hopeful that i could find something suitable. I am going to be doing another post on Quick Service/Counter Service options and my experience at Auberge De Cendrillion, but today's post is about a place I've wanted to eat at since it opened, Bistrot Chez Rémy. This a recent addition to Disneyland Paris, themed around the film Ratatouille in where you are "shrunk down" to the size of Rémy and his friends. As we visited Disneyland Paris during the off-peak season, it was easy enough to make a reservation on the same day, us opting to go for a late lunch. Upon being seated I told the hostess that I don't eat any meat, dairy or eggs, to which she then recommended the salad starter and Tofu and White Bean Casserole, both without the sauce. I knew I was going to go for this option anyway but it was lovely of her to reassure me that the dish can be made dairy-free. There are 4 different menus of "set meals" that you can choose, each varying in price and what dishes are served, to which I chose the Rémy Menu. This includes a starter and main course, and also happens to be the cheapest. With my annual pass we also got a free none-alcoholic "cocktail" as well as 10% off the bill. Not bad! I was concerned that without a sauce, the food was going to be a little dry but I had no need to worry, adding a little olive oil to the salad to make it just right. The main had no need for any such additions, being cooked to perfection and adequately moist. I thoroughly enjoyed the casserole, the only disappointing factor being when I finished eating it! Do note that portion sizes in Disneyland Paris are alot different to the American parks. They are a lot smaller, and as someone who is used to eating in Walt Disney World restaurants, I did kind of wish I had more food on my plate or some sort of side. 

The service at Bistrot Chez Rémy was great, our server being friendly and attentive. There was a bit of a language barrier when my friend Daniel tried asking did the cheese have meat rennet in it, the server didn't really understand what we were trying to say (which is fair enough), so he just went without cheese just to be safe. I would be wary with having cheese in France if you're vegetarian, as french cheese can be made with meat products.

Overall I really enjoyed the meal and would totally recommend it to anyone, not only those looking for a Vegan option. It's a great atmosphere (if not a little bit of a squeeze, tables seem to sit much closer together in Disneyland Paris restaurants than I'm used too), amazing decor, lovely service and delicious food.

Have you eaten at Bistrot Chez Rémy?

xox

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Disneyland Paris at Christmas

This November saw me take my third and final Disney trip of the year with my mum, for her birthday. Not only was it my first time in a Disney Park during the Christmas season, but it was also my mums first visit to Disneyland Paris and the trip where I finally became an Annual Pass Holder. I have really fallen in love with Disneyland Paris this year, its got its own unique charm while being a lot more accessible (and cheaper!) than Walt Disney World. During this trip we met ALOT of characters in the three days, a total of 22, even meeting some multiple times in different outfits. My mum was loving life, with her little autograph book, giving characters hugs and kisses. We were perfectly happy ditching some of the bigger rides for casual strolls through the arcades and multiple viewings of the parades. Disney at Christmas time is breathtaking and perfect for getting you into the festive spirit. We also did the Inventions Brunch for the first time, and while expensive, the character interaction was fabulous (12 characters!), the food amazing and the deserts even better.

I am going back to Disneyland Paris in February with my best friend and am so excited to be staying at the Sequoia Lodge. I feel like I can chill out more at Disneyland Paris as I have done most things before and know I will be back again soon. Heck, I'm even looking into booking another trip with my mum in Spring and a trip in summer for my birthday with my boyfriend. Time to get saving!

Have you ever been to Disneyland Paris? Have you visited a Disney Park during the Christmas season?

xox

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Disney Christmas Gift Guide For Him

Jedi Knight Gown // Millennium Falcon Chopping Board // Mickey Mouse Pop Figure
Oswald Mug // Sorcerer Mickey Disney Traditions // Men’s Mickey Mouse Pyjamas
Vans X Disney Slip On Shoes // R2D2 Wallet // UP Tshirt

Buying gifts for the men in our lives can be an absolute pain, although I’m sure they say the same about us (they only need to glance at our internet or amazon history to find an abundance of things we absolutely need, am i right?) So, I’ve decided to put together some suggestions for those men out there who love all things Disney, although there is totally something for everyone here as Star Wars is technically Disney and who doesn't love abit of Star Wars? My personal favourite is the Millennium Falcon Chopping Board as I’m moving house next week and geekey home ware is my current obsession!

Do the men in your life love Disney? What are you planning on buying them?

xox

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Walt Disney World September 2015

Another year, another Walt Disney World holiday. Even though me and Craig had already booked a Florida trip for September 2016, we all know that I cant go a whole 2 years without a Disney fix, so along with my friends Rachael and Daniel, we booked a last minute holiday to the most Magical Place on Earth. We found a pretty good deal staying in Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, so as August 30th dawned, off we went to Manchester airport, ready for 2 weeks of magical adventures. This year we got to experience many new things such as Diagon Alley in Universal Studios (EMERGERD!), various different table service restaurants, some delicious treats and a different time of year. I had only ever been to Florida in the summer months, so it was nice getting to experience September, most of all the Halloween decorations. Unfortunately we left 2 days before the Halloween parties started, but there's always next year. Despite everything I had heard, this September was unexpectedly busy. Some days it rivalled the crazy summer season, which was disappointing as it’s suppose to be the quietest time of year. I think for any future trips we are now going to start looking to experience the different events and seasons rather than look for the quieter months. We know we will visit again so there is no need to rush to fit everything in.

As always, I had a great trip and was devastated to come home. It’s not all doom and gloom though, as I have three Disney trips upcoming! Disneyland Paris in November, Disneyland Paris again in February and Walt Disney World next September! Of course, I did vlog the whole trip and am currently uploading a video every Saturday over on my YouTube channel if you want to check out what we got upto.

Have you ever been to Walt Disney World? Have a magical day <3

xox

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Extra Sweet Bowtique | Disney Fashion

I’ve had a little bit of an obsession with hair bows recently, particularly those that are inspired by Disney. After spotting a rainbow of them during my scrolling’s through instagram I was faced with a number of Etsy sellers who make beautiful pieces with which i can channel my favourite characters. Eventually I settled upon Extra Sweet Bowtique as not only do they have a wide selection of stunning bows, reasonable prices and great value pack deals, but they also have an active presence on social media, such as instagram, commenting on their customers pictures and replying to comments, something i really respect in a growingly competitive market. I chose to order 2 Heroes vs Villains value packs, 1 containing a Maleficent bow and an Ariel bow (which I gave to my friend for her birthday) while the other consisted of an Evil Queen bow and a Snow White bow. I also picked up a Haunted Mansion cast member costume inspired bow, as this is my favourite ride ever and I’m planning a Disneybound inspired by the costume for my next trip.

The bows are so well made, being sturdy and the materials used of a high quality while remaining a reasonable price. The value packs are $10 (about £6.50) and contain 2 bows while the Haunted Mansion bow was £4. There is also an option of what clip you would like, myself just going for a standard 2” barrette to wear at the back of my head. You can really tell that each bow is made with uttermost care and i really am super impressed with them. Not only are they are going to be perfect for my upcoming Disney trips, but to wear in my hair on a daily basis to give a little Disney touch. I will be 100% purchasing more bows from Extra Sweet Bowtique in the future and look forward to seeing any future releases she has planned.

What do you think of these Disney inspired bows? Do you have any?

xox

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Maple and Whisky Disney Scented Candles

Recently I’ve become a little obsessed with handmade/independent sellers, especially those who create beautiful items inspired by Disney. Maple and Whisky are no exception. Based in the UK, they create soywax candles inspired by the Orlando parks, both Disney and Universal. After seeing a buzz about them on Instagram, I knew i just had to pick up a few for myself. Main Street Bakery is cinnamon scented and reminiscent of the iconic Cinnamon Rolls that used to be sold in what is now a Starbucks (they can now be found in Gaston's Tavern), on Main Street USA. Butterbeer is, of course, a tribute to the famous ‘Harry Potter’ beverage and smells like sweet butterscotch (although the candle definitely smells better than the real thing tastes). My favourite of the bunch, Adventure Is Out There, is inspired by Disney Pixar film UP and has a grape scent that actually makes my mouth water, it’s delectable! Unlike many other candle brands I have tried in the past, Maple and Whisky products burn very cleanly with beautiful scents that last for hours. I got the 8oz sizes which will burn for about 60 hours, and so far, this statement is looking to be true, having had loads of use out of them over the past few weeks.

The 8oz jars will set you back about £8 each, which can seem a little pricey for a candle (to me anyway) but considering they are handmade, look cute and are freaking Disney/Universal inspired, they are 100% worth it. Maple and Whisky also have a 12oz size jar, wax melts and tea lights available at prices ranging from £4-£12. You can purchase your own candles from their Etsy store here (currently they are closed for 2 weeks due to the owner being in Florida)! I’m really looking forward to trying some more of their candles in the future and really hope they expand the range even more. Here’s hoping for a popcorn scented one! Yum!

Have you ever tried a Maple and Whisky candle? What is your favourite Disney scent?

xox

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