Mouse Ears and Messy Buns

Ever thought about staying at TWO Disney World resorts on one trip? It's called a split stay and once you know how to do it right, it's an absolute game changer for your Disney vacation.We're breaking down everything: how split stays actually work, why we love them, and the real strategy behind choosing which two resorts make sense for YOUR family. We're talking transportation, dining plans, luggage transfer on switch day, and the honest cons nobody warns you about (toddler moms, this one's for you).PLUS: we do a live split stay resort draft for three very different Disney families. A dad who didn't even want to come, a first-timer family in full princess era, and a party of four kids AND grandparents. We made our picks, now we want yours.What we cover:What a Disney World split stay is and how reservations workChoosing resorts based on transportation and park accessHow to attach the dining plan to one or both reservationsClub level perks and how to maximize switch dayThe luggage transfer process explainedWho a split stay is actually right forLive resort draft for three real-life Disney family scenariosTell us your split stay picks over on Instagram and Facebook @MouseEarsAndMessyBuns!And don't forget, if you are looking for some help planning your magical vacation and want someone to take it off your to-do list, reach out and we are here to help. This is exactly what we do. Follow along, submit a question or send a quote request here.

Not every Disney deluxe resort needs to be steps from a park to be worth it and in this episode, we're breaking down four that prove exactly that. We're diving into Animal Kingdom Lodge, Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, and the Cabins at Fort Wilderness; covering everything from transportation trade-offs and dining to pool vibes, room sizes, and who each resort is actually the right fit for.If you've ever wanted your Disney vacation to feel like a real vacation, more space, a slower pace, and a home base you actually want to come back to, this episode is for you.We cover:Why Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the most immersive resorts on all of Disney propertyThe honest truth about Saratoga Springs and when it actually makes sense to book itWhy Old Key West might have the best room sizes on propertyWhat makes the Fort Wilderness Cabins feel like two vacations in oneThe real transportation trade-offs no one warns you about at these resortsPlus we play a chill resort edition of This or That: savannah views vs. Magic Kingdom rope drop, anyone?And as always, make sure you are following us over on Facebook or Instagram and if you have any listener questions you would like answered or work with either Kathleen or Meagan on your next magical vacation, you can find all the links here. Don't forget to leave us a review!

Trying to figure out which Epcot area resort is right for YOUR family? We're breaking down all four Epcot area deluxe resorts: Disney's BoardWalk Inn, Yacht Club, Beach Club, and the Riviera Resort, so you can pick the right resort for you. We're talking Storm Along Bay (and the slide situation nobody warns you about), the BoardWalk's nighttime entertainment, our (okay Meagan's) honest thoughts on Yacht Club hallways, and why one of us calls the Riviera her favorite resort on all of Disney property.We cover:BoardWalk Inn pros, cons & that quick service problemYacht Club vs Beach Club — what's actually different?Storm Along Bay: everything you need to know before you goRiviera Resort & why the Skyliner changes everythingWalking distance to Epcot & Hollywood Studios explainedThe International Gateway entrance advantage for resort guestsWhether you're planning a girls' trip, a family vacation, or finally treating yourself to a Disney deluxe stay, this episode will help you find your perfect fit.🎙️ New episodes drop weekly. Follow Mouse Ears & Messy Buns so you never miss a magical minute. Submit your listener questions or send in your quote form if you want help building your next magical vacation.

2027 Walt Disney World vacation packages are officially open for booking and in this bonus episode, Meagan breaks down everything you need to know right now.We're covering the brand new dining plan with additional table service credits, the 20% discount on dining plans for kids ages 3-9, and why booking your 2027 Walt Disney World vacation early is the smartest move you can make for your family.We also walk you through exactly how flexible Disney vacation packages really are; including how to modify or cancel penalty-free, how to make payments on your own timeline, and what happens to your money if your plans change.All it takes is a $200 deposit to get started. No stress. No risk. Just a plan that works.Because Mom life is messy, but the magic can be well planned.🔗 Ready to start planning with Kathleen or Meagan? Request your quote here

Mom life is messy, but the magic can be well planned and this week Meagan is back from her family trip to Disneyland with the full, unfiltered recap.They cover everything a Disney World family needs to know before making the jump to Disneyland: the hotel comparison, the parks, the logistics, and the moments nobody warns you about.On the hotel side, Meagan breaks down Pixar Place club level- stunning Pixar theming floor by floor, a concierge staff that delivered, and honest cons including the pool situation and the elevator nightmare on floor 14. Plus how club level at Disneyland actually compares to Disney World's version (temper those expectations).In the parks, California Adventure stole the show: Avengers Campus, Guardians of the Galaxy, and a 4-year-old so starstruck meeting Spider-Man he forgot how to speak. They also get into why Disneyland's Lightning Lane system is so much simpler than Disney World's, whether Magic Bands are even worth packing, and how the lack of transportation logistics will completely rewire your morning routine.Lessons learned include the time change nobody really accounts for, why strollers at Disneyland are a whole situation, and how many days you actually need to do this trip right.Emryn, Meagan's 9-year-old, joins for the snack break, giving the trip a 9 out of 10, crowning her ride of the trip, and dropping her number one tip for first time Disneyland kid visitors.If you're a Disney World family curious about Disneyland, or actively planning a California trip, this one will save you time, money, and at least one stroller meltdown.🎧 Follow Mouse Ears and Messy Buns so you never miss an episode. Find us on Instagram & Facebook for sneak peeks, behind the scenes, and a community of messy bun moms who want a little extra magic. And don't forget, if you are looking for help planning a magical trip of your own, you know where to find us.

Not all Deluxe Resorts are created equal and this week, we're breaking down the Magic Kingdom resort area with someone who has stayed at every single one. We're joined by Natali Bohm, owner of Axis Travel Group and Disney World Annual Passholder, for an honest, no-fluff breakdown of the Grand Floridian, Contemporary, Polynesian, and Wilderness Lodge.We cover the real pros and cons of each resort, who each one is actually best for, what the monorail access really means for your family's day, and the one resort Natali says gives you the best bang for your Deluxe dollar. Plus... we're going Behind the Magic on Club Level. What is it, who should book it, and which lounge is actually worth the splurge?Whether you're dreaming of a balcony fireworks view or just trying to figure out if Deluxe is even worth it for your family, this episode will help you stop second-guessing and start booking.Don't forget to leave us your thoughts in the comments and follow along!Because mom life is messy… but the magic can be well planned.Follow along and join the community:Instagram & Facebook: ⁠⁠Mouse Ears and Messy Buns⁠Hang out with Natali Bohm!⁠⁠Axis Travel Group⁠ | ⁠⁠TikTok

Disney just dropped a summer savings offer exclusively for Disney+ Perks members and we are breaking it all down so you don't miss it. We're talking rooms starting from $99 per night at All Star Sports all the way up to savanna view rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge and yes that includes Cars Family Suites at Art of Animation and fifth sleeper rooms at Port Orleans Riverside.This offer is valid most nights June 21 through August 15 and rooms are limited so this is not a sit on it kind of moment. There are some important booking details attached to this one that you need to know before you try to grab it, including specific procedures that if not followed correctly could get your reservation cancelled.Kathleen and Meagan are both Disney travel advisors who know exactly how to book this offer the right way. If you are looking for some well planned summer magic, we have a short quote form here. Mom to mom planning for real life. As always, come join us over on Instagram or Facebook. We would love to hear your thoughts on episodes, topic requests or just join a community of moms who want a little extra magic in their life.

Trying to choose the right Disney World resort can feel overwhelming, especially when the moderate resorts sit right in the sweet spot between budget and deluxe.In this episode of Mouse Ears & Messy Buns, we break down every Disney moderate resort at Walt Disney World so you can figure out which one is the best fit for your family.We cover:• Caribbean Beach Resort• Coronado Springs Resort (including Gran Destino Tower)• Port Orleans French Quarter• Port Orleans Riverside• The famous Royal Guest RoomsWe’re talking about the real pros and cons of each resort: from Skyliner access and transportation, to room sizes for families of five, best pools, walking distances, and which resorts are best for toddlers, adults, first-time Disney trips, and relaxing vacations.You’ll also hear:• Which moderate resort has the best pool• The most relaxing Disney resort vibe• Our picks for best bang for your buck• Why Coronado Springs might be the most underrated Disney resort• The truth about Caribbean Beach and those internal bus loopsIf you're planning a Disney vacation and trying to decide between value, moderate, or deluxe resorts, this episode will help you understand why moderates are often the perfect balance of price and amenities.Don't forget to leave us your thoughts in the comments!Because mom life is messy… but the magic can be well planned.Follow along and join the community:Instagram & Facebook: Mouse Ears and Messy Buns

Trying to decide between Pop Century, Art of Animation, or the All-Star Resorts at Disney World? In this episode of Mouse Ears and Messy Buns, we break down Disney World value resorts, who they’re best for, who they’re not for, and how to choose the right fit for your family. We talk Skyliner resorts, family suites, Disney theming, budget-friendly onsite stays, transportation, pools, and what families should really know before booking.Come join us!⁠Mouse Ears and Messy Buns

Thinking about booking a Disney Cruise Line vacation but wondering if it’s really worth the price? Or trying to decide between a Disney cruise vs a Walt Disney World trip for your family?In this episode of Mouse Ears & Messy Buns, we share first-time Disney Cruise Line tips, planning advice, and what families should know before sailing.We’re joined by Disney Cruise Line enthusiast Jenn Ruble, a mom of three who has sailed both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. She shares what makes Disney cruises different, why so many families love them, and when a cruise might actually be an easier first Disney vacation than the parks.In this episode we talk about:• What a Disney Cruise Line vacation is really like• Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean• Why Disney’s kids clubs are so different• The famous rotational dining experience• Disney cruise staterooms and split bathrooms• Why many parents feel comfortable letting kids explore the ship• Why Disney cruises can be less overwhelming than the parks• Tips for planning your first Disney cruiseWe also talk about how Disney supports families with sensory needs, medical needs, and unique travel situations, and why so many families find cruising to be a more relaxed way to experience Disney magic.If a Disney cruise has ever been on your bucket list, this episode will help you decide if it’s the right fit for your family.Come join us!Mouse Ears and Messy Buns Hang out with Jenn Ruble!Instagram | TikTok

Disney just released one of the most anticipated Walt Disney World promotions of the year: Free Disney Dining for select 2026 travel dates.In this bonus episode of Mouse Ears & Messy Buns, we break down what the Disney Free Dining offer means for families planning a Walt Disney World vacation and what you should know before booking.If you’re thinking about a Disney World trip in 2026, this quick episode will help you understand the latest Disney vacation deals.Dining Plan Episode to help break it down!Book your trip with usFollow us on Instagram/FacebookAnd don't forget to follow and leave us a review!

Trying to figure out if the Disney Dining Plan is actually worth it for your family?In this episode, we’re breaking down:• What the Disney Dining Plan includes• Quick Service vs. Table Service plans• How snack credits actually work• When it makes sense for your family• When it’s NOT worth it• And why Kids Eat Free in 2026 changes everythingWe’re also talking strategy: how to maximize credits, how to use Fantasmic dining packages, how to stack character meals, and how to decide if you’re saving money or just adding food to “make it worth it.”If you’ve ever wondered:“Is this per night?”“Are credits per day?”“Am I going to waste money?”“Do I have to sit down every day?”This episode is your clear, no-fluff breakdown.Because nothing ruins vacation vibes faster than spending $300 on chicken nuggets your kids didn’t eat.Let’s rope drop it.Don't forget to give us a follow on Instagram/Facebook and submit your questions!

How far in advance do you really need to plan a Disney trip?Google says 6–12 months. Social media says you’re already behind.But the truth is more layered than that.In this episode of Mouse Ears & Messy Buns, we break down:• When planning early actually matters• When last-minute Disney trips can still work• Why stress doesn’t come from Disney — it comes from too many decisions at once• The first three decisions that matter most (and what can wait)• How staying on-site vs off-site impacts timelines, flexibility, and stressWhether you’re planning a year out or thinking about a last-minute trip, this episode will help you build the right foundation, without overwhelm.Because the best Disney plan isn’t the one you find on Google.It’s the one that fits your family.Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for Episode Sneak Peeks and more fun!

Disney quietly offers limited-time perks to guests who sail Disney Cruise Line or stay at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, but most families never know these offers exist.In this short bonus episode of Mouse Ears & Messy Buns, Meagan will break down:• how Disney Cruise guests can save up to 35% on Disney World resorts• how Disney World Deluxe resort guests can save up to 25% on select Disney Cruise Line sailings• the strict booking windows you must follow• who these offers are best for• and why timing matters more than people realizeIf you’ve recently sailed Disney Cruise Line or stayed at a Deluxe Disney World resort, OR will be in the near future, this quick bonus episode is a must-listen.👉 Reach out to us for full planning and guidance anytime. Our job? To take the stress, guesswork and overwhelm out of Disney planning.

In this episode of Mouse Ears & Messy Buns, we’re tackling a question that changes everything: What kind of Disney trip are you actually planning?Because so many moms say they want a calm, magical, memory-making trip… but then build a maximize every minute schedule; and those two things don’t always match.We break down the 4 Disney trip types we see most often (Maximize It, Slow & Soak It In, Toddler-First, and Ease-Focused) and how each one changes the way you should plan your days, your resort, and your strategy. We also talk about why buying Lightning Lane doesn’t fix an exhausted kid, why ride count isn’t the same as magic, and how to plan in a way that actually fits your family’s season of life.Takeaway: The best Disney trips aren’t the busiest ones, they’re the ones that match your family.⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/mouseearsandmessybuns⁠

In this episode of Mouse Ears & Messy Buns, we’re tackling a big question many moms quietly struggle with: Is Disney actually right for your family right now or does it make more sense to wait?From social media pressure and “under three is free” guilt to age gaps, budget timing, and traveling with babies, toddlers, or big kids, we talk through what really matters when deciding when to go.We share personal experiences from taking kids at very different ages, explain what Disney does well for little ones (hello, baby care centers), and why waiting can sometimes make the trip more enjoyable, not less magical.Takeaway: There’s no “right” age for Disney, only the right time for your family.⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/mouseearsandmessybuns⁠

In Episode 2 of Mouse Ears & Messy Buns, we’re talking about one of the biggest Disney mistakes we see families make: trying to do everything.From overbooked days and packed Lightning Lane schedules to the pressure of a “one and done” trip, we break down why treating Disney like a checklist actually makes it harder — and way less magical.We’ll share real Disney mom fails, explain why “doing more” doesn’t mean “having more fun,” and talk through how to set realistic expectations that work for your family, your kids’ energy levels, and your travel style.Takeaway: Disney isn’t about doing all the things — it’s about doing the right things, at the right times.⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/mouseearsandmessybuns⁠

In our very first episode of Mouse Ears & Messy Buns, we’re tackling the #1 thing we hear from moms: “Disney feels SO overwhelming.”From too many resorts (seriously—so many), ticket options, dining, and that pressure to “do it all,” we break down why planning feels like a million browser tabs… and how to simplify it fast.We’ll walk you through the 3 decisions to focus on first (dates, resort, and ticket days), share our “starter pack” recommendation for first-timers, and quickly explain the difference between Value, Moderate, and Deluxe resorts (plus why Epcot is absolutely a kid park).Takeaway: You don’t need to do everything, you just need a plan that fits your family.⁠https://linktr.ee/mouseearsandmessybuns⁠

Before we jump into Disney tips and planning, we wanted you to get to know us. In this short episode, we introduce ourselves and answer a few fun questions so you can learn a little more about the moms behind the mic.Done forget to follow our fun on Instagram!