lost weekenders

Merchandise

We Opened a Shop!

Merchandise, Us, FashionKelseyComment

This is an unbelievably exciting time for us! As you can tell from the title...we opened our very own Disney inspired shop (AHHHHHH!!!).

Opening our own shop is something we’ve wanted to do since before we even started the blog. We all work in different creative industries, but none of us have been in the position where what we made is our idea to begin with. Our careers are usually carrying out someone else’s vision (which is fine! But ya know...sometimes you want to create something from your own brain).

Best Disneyland Merch Outside of Disneyland

Merchandise, Merch, FashionKelseyComment

By now, y'all know we like to dabble in the world of Disneyland merch.

And Disneyland has some seriously good shopping, but if you can't make it to the park, or you're looking to expand your collection, grab something unique, or just support smaller creators, I have a list of favorite things, and things I'm lusting after. 

1. Foolish Mortal Supply

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I love every single thing this couple designs. I own almost everything they put out. In fact I have both a sweatshirt, and a t shirt of the Grim Grinning Ghost Tours design. I'm wearing the sweatshirt as I type. And not only are the designs incredible, and people will comment constantly when you're in the parks, but they're SUPER comfy and soft, and their sizing is pretty much perfect. 

2. EarsRPoppin

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Not gonna lie, the name isn't necessarily my thing, but their ears are adorable. If you've been coveting the rose gold ears, but haven't been able to get your hands on them, I love these as another, more unique option. You definitely won't be seeing many of the black with rose gold bow style around the park. Plus, they're super well made. I ordered a pair for me and for Kat, both were identical, and they were park caliber quality. Highly recommend. 

3. Pinup Couture

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Their line of Mary Blair dresses and skirts are seriously calling to me.

4. Marlee Mae Everyday

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Once again, I have a love for things you can find in the park with a twist. Spirit Jerseys are pretty popular in the parks right now, I have my fair share, but this isn't a color combo you can find for sale in Disneyland. Plus they'd go 👌 with those ears ammiright. 

5. 999 Spyglass

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Why doesn't Disneyland sell anything with just the castle? There's always a castle and words and I never want words. Thanks to this Etsy seller, you can get a simple dad hat in a color of your choice with a plain ole adorable castle.  

Stocking Stuffer Gift Guide

Merchandise, MerchKatComment

If you're looking for a little Disney magic to stuff into a stocking or two this year, we've got you covered:

pin trading booster set peter pan

Pin Trading Booster Set

Nobody can resist the allure of a cute enamel pin, especially a Disney one. Luckily, Disney recently started releasing these themed sets of four pins of your pin-collector dreams

 

vhs journal beauty and the beast

"VHS Case" Journal

Are VHS tapes considered 'vintage' now? Yikes. In any case, how nostalgic is this VHS journal? A perfect stocking stuffer for the those who want to relive fond memories of the past.

enchanted tiki room socks

Socks

Socks are the seemingly boring gift that everyone wants but never wants to buy themselves, making them a perfect stocking stuffer. Disney socks are even better than normal socks because, duh, they're Disney-themed. Treat your loved ones to a pair of these fantastic Enchanted Tiki Room socks!

talespin baloo action figure

Disney Cartoon Action Figure

If I were a collectible toy person, I would be all over these figurines. Especially considering the added nostalgia factor - TaleSpin was my JAM in the 90s. If you've got someone on your gift list who can appreciate a collectible and a huge wave of nostalgia, these are for them!

mickey mouse watch

Disney Watch

Kelsey and I have spent a lot of time looking at watches at the Disneyland Resort. They're one of those purchases that you always kindof want to buy but something else bright and shiny always distracts you at the last minute (or you're too shy to ask the Cast Member behind the counter to open the Fancy Jewelry Case). So why not give the gift of a fancy (or just fun) watch this Holiday season?

beauty and the beast enchanted rose tumbler

Enchanted Rose Light-Up Dome Tumbler with Straw

If you missed the insane hype around the rose sipper from The Red Rose Tavern in Disneyland this year, don't worry. The summer's must-have park souvenir lives on in this slightly-different version from shopDisney - and it's just as magical. It lights up, too! 

 

Everyone Gift Guide

Merchandise, MerchKatComment

Here's a roundup of all of our favorite Disney merch that absolutely everyone can enjoy: 

jungle cruise shirt

Vintage Ride Shirts

Everyone can agree: a graphic tee is basically a wardrobe staple, and what better graphic tee than a throwback-style Disneyland tee? We bought these the second we saw them in the park, and have zero regrets - and are willing to bet that anyone receiving one will be just as happy!

mickey mouse pen

Snazzy Mickey Mouse Pen

I can tell you from experience (I used to sell fancy fountain pens at the store I worked at): everyone loves a nice pen. They're always useful, no one's going to buy one for themselves, and you really can't go wrong. So we recommend going even-not-wronger (what?) and picking up a snazzy Mickey Mouse pen for the Disney lovers in your life. 

mickey waffle maker

Mickey Mouse Waffle Maker

Everyone loves waffles. Everyone loves Mickey Mouse. Everyone loves Mickey Mouse waffles they can make at home. Trust us on this. 

coach mickey luggage tag

Disney Luggage Tags

Get super fancy and spring for this COACH Mickey Luggage Tag. It's super classy with just the right amount of Disney thrown in - and come on, who doesn't want a luggage tag with Mickey Mouse ears? 

mickey backpack

Mickey Mouse '80s Flashback Backpack

Not gonna lie, I'm super into this weird 80s Mickey backpack, and I'm pretty sure anyone else with a bit of 80s nostalgia would be too.

mickey slippers uniqlo

Mickey Slippers

These Mickey slippers from UNIQLO look super cozy and super cute. (They're also super affordable.) Everyone can appreciate a pair of Mickey slippers!

disney movies

Movies

If you're still stuck on what gift to give, the ol' standby is definitely a good movie. DVD, Bluray, Streaming - whatever form you want to give your gift in, you can never go wrong with a good Disney film!

 

Techie Gift Guide

Merchandise, MerchStephenComment

You Don't Have To Be A Techie To Love These Gifts!

If you have a phone to charge or cover, a kid who needs a fun toy, or are an aspiring photographer, there's something here for you. 

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R2-D2 Wall USB Charger
Probably the coolest part about this oversized plug cover is you get MORE plugs, plus 2 USB ports to charge your phone. This gift would be great for any Star Wars lover, but I think prominently displayed at someone's desk would be extra special.

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Mickey Style Apple Watch Band
Disneybound in this subtly Mickey inspired Apple Watch Band. This can be a daily wear item that doesn't scream Mickey Mouse (so you can cooly wear that superb collectable Disneyland 60th Anniversary sweatshirt and not clash).

Although I don't own this watchband and can't personally vouch for the quality, all the reviews I've come across tout Casetify's attention to detail, exceeding number of strap adjustment holes and durable material. 

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Minnie iPhone Case
Disneyland shops have endless amounts of iPhone cases for *cough* current *cough* generation phones, but none are quite as classic as those simple silhouettes. This Minnie case has been around for a while, and hopefully doesn't disappear like some of the other very cool leather and sparkley cases that I've purchased as gifts in the past. If Minnie is your character of choice, what better way to shout that to the world than on everyone's favorite and pocketable tech gadget, the iPhone.

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Cinderella Bluetooth Speaker
Glitter and glam adorn dressers, desks and countertops in the form of jewelry, precision writing instruments and polished serving spoons. This "discrete" piece of Disney-inspired tech will have you thanking your Fairy Godmother.

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Disney Instax Framed Film
Kat recently started taking some Instax pictures on our last trip to Disneyland and they are super fun. Use these Disney framed film cartridges to up the fun, even when you're far away from The Park. 

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BB8 USB Battery Phone Charger
Long days at Disneyland, taking tons of pictures, swiping through Max Passes and texting lost friends definitely sucks up the juice. Every year Apple promises a longer lasting phone battery, but it never seems to be enough. This BB8 battery offers about one whole iPhone charge in a far less ugly package than the typical USB battery brick. And, being about the size of a tube of lipstick, it won't make you feel the weight of your selenium drive or thermal hyperscan vindicator.

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Sphero Lightning McQueen
The original Sphero was a gyroscopic ball - a design and engineering marvel that ultimately gained the company a unique position for Disney partnership in developing BB8, costarring in the then-upcoming blockbuster, Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Lightning has a completely different design system and obviously doesn't drive on a gyroscopic ball, but has some incredible animated body movements and an LCD display in the windshield to show his fully expressive eye movements. This race-able RC car comes with specialized iOS apps that allow interactive play between your iPhone and the physical car.

The ultimate Cars-lover's toy. 

Disney Holiday Gift Guide

Merchandise, MerchKatComment

The Holidays are finally upon us, and Disney has a huge amount of merch for the Holiday lovers in your life. Here’s a roundup of a few of our favorite things that we wouldn't mind seeing under the tree this year:

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Holiday Ears

I mean obviously. It’s hardly Disney without some iconic ears, and these Christmas Mickey ears are the perfect (super subtle) touch to make any occasion a little more festive.

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Mickey Santa Hat

Taking it a step further from ears - who doesn’t need a Mickey Mouse Santa Hat, am i right?  

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Santa Mickey Mouse and Friends Happy Holidays Mug

This mug was pretty much the first piece of Holiday merchandise Kelsey and I bought this year. Who can say no to that design? It’s also a perfect shape for hot cocoa (and everyone could use a new mug for the Holidays).

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Santa Mickey Mouse and Friends Happy Holidays Apron

If you’ve got someone who loves to spend time in the kitchen in your life, treat them to a Holiday apron. Aprons are one of those items that you can never have enough of, and this one’s super cute design makes it even more special.  

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Mickey Mouse "Ugly" Holiday Sweater

I didn’t buy this the last time we were in Disneyland and I have so many regrets. Look at this sweater! It screams holidays! Anyone who can appreciate an ugly sweater is sure to love this one as much as I do.

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Bambi Happy Holidays Creamer

This is ridiculous and adorable and I want it, not that I’ve ever needed a creamer in my life. If you’re looking for a gift for someone who hosts (or wants to host) tons of dinner parties (which I assume is the only time one would need a creamer) this is the gift for you. Or just treat someone to a cute Bambi creamer for the heck of it. 

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Mickey and Friends Holiday Dress

This dress is amazing. I don’t really have much more to say except that anyone would be glad to receive this as a gift - have you looked at it?!

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Mickey Mouse Mini Tree Skirt

For the true Disney fan, even a standard treeskirt for their mini tree (or their two mini trees...or five… we have quite a few trees, okay) will not do. How cute would this Mickey tree skirt be under a tiny tree? It's a perfect addition to any Disney Holiday home. 

 

Disney Beauty and Accessories Gift Guide

Merchandise, MerchKelsey1 Comment

It's gift guide week here at Lost Weekenders! Every day we'll be bringing you a new Disney themed gift guide to please any Disney fan. 

First up, my personal favorite, beauty and accessories. Some are tried and true, and some are just things I'm lusting after. Check em out. 

Kiehl's + Disney Collection

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I love Kiehls and I love Disney, so what better combo than these Kiehls + Disney collab? My super sensitive finicky skin has yet to meet a Kiehls product it doesn’t love, and the classic Mickey packaging makes for a super sweet gift for anyone. There’s a bunch of different kits, all which would please a wide array of hard-to-please people. My personal favorite is the Skin Hydration Essentials. And the best part? Proceeds from the kits go to Feeding America, a charity that aims to help the 42 million people in the United States who don’t know where their next meal will come from.

Princess Hand Mirrors

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I’m so happy Sephora is still releasing these mirrors! I have the cinderella one and I actually use it everyday when I get ready. One side is magnified and one side is normal, plus it’s beautifully weighted, so it sits nicely in the hand.

 

Besame + Snow White Collection

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What is it with me and mirrors? I’m dying for the mirror in this collection. I love Beseme- the undereye brightening powder is in regular circulation in my makeup routine. Everything they make is super classic, and you really can’t go wrong. Any Disney lover would be thrilled with this collection.

Snow White Travel Bags

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While we’re on Snow White, this bag set is super adorable. These little bags always come in handy, plus they’re great to organize for your next Disneyland trip.

Ariel Nail Wraps

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These are super cool if you’re one of those magic people who can put on nail wraps and not eff it up. I am not one of those people (yet?) but if you have a Little Mermaid fan in your life, these Ariel Nail Wraps are a win. But maybe throw in a couple packs of drugstore nail wraps for practice just in case.

Alex + Ani Bangles 

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Kat and I go kinda crazy for these bangles. They’re so sweet and can be worn alone or layered, and there's a style for everyone. But you can’t go wrong with the classic castle.

 

Kate Spade Collection

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I love this little Kate Spade card case. I have one and use it as my wallet in Disneyland. It’s perfects for a couple cards, an AP, and an ID. Which is really all you need. Especially since fastpasses aren’t physical anymore, these are perfect and so sleek. If you’re like me, you can get the matching backpack and live your best life, but these also make a pretty special gift.

Bambi Dooney & Bourke

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How stinking cute is this bag. Kat got one a couple trips ago and people have not stopped complimenting it. Clearly for someone super special in your life (or you), but this would be a winner winner chicken dinner present.

 

 

7 Free Souvenirs from Disneyland

Merchandise, Beginners, MerchKatComment

That’s right, people: actual honest-to-goodness free souvenirs in Disneyland, of all places. No, we haven't had too many Lost Safaris at Trader Sam’s - this is legit.

disneyland birthday button

Buttons

We’re assuming you’ve heard of Birthday Buttons, readily available from City Hall in Town Square, and other locations around the resort. Not only are these cheap-as-free, but there are a variety of other buttons as well (Just Married, First Visit, I’m Celebrating...) usually all you have to do is ask, and Disney will have a button for you!

 

Drawing at Animation Academy

If you’re searching for a place to take a break in DCA, check out the Animation Academy. You get a fun Disney character drawing lesson, and also get to keep your drawing. This is a unique souvenir that you won’t find anywhere else, and always changes - you’ll draw a new character pretty much every time you go.
 

jungle cruise

Jungle Cruise Map

We’ve done a whole post on things you should ask for in Disneyland, some of which we’ve actually asked for ourselves, including this one. To get this souvenir, you’ve got to ask one of the Cast Members as you off-board your Jungle Cruise boat for a map.

Sometimes they’re out, sometimes the Cast Member doesn’t know what you’re talking about, and sometimes you luck out and get a Jungle Cruise map! Yes, it’s just a map printed on an 8.5x11 piece of paper, but it’s a great souvenir to take home with you.

 

Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters Photo

Most ride photos you have to pay for (or take a quick phone photo on the way out), but Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters offers the option of emailing yourself your photo. It’s super convenient, though the lines can get pretty long (and the computers take forever to type in an email), and, oh yeah, it’s free.

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FastPass Reminder

Since the print-outs you receive when you get a FastPass aren't actually collected by Cast Members upon entering the ride anymore, you can now keep them as mementos. It's great to trip down memory lane when you happen upon an old FastPass in your wallet.

 

Survey Sticker

If you’re fortunate enough to be randomly selected by Cast Members at the park entrances to complete a survey, you’re in luck - you might just get a free Mickey sticker. Sure, it’s just a sticker, but hey, it’s the little things that count.

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The Buena Vista Bugle

The newspaper of Disney California Adventure, offered on Buena Vista street (sometimes at the Fiddler, Fifer and Practical Cafe, but always at the Chamber of Commerce) is free and often goes unnoticed. It’s a something fun to read through and take home with you, filled with Disney news-of-the-moment.


We’ve mentioned other free things to ask for in Disneyland, though some of them are possibly just rumors (I can’t say I’ve ever seen anyone actually receive a Death Certificate). Have you found any other free souvenirs from the parks?

 

5 Things to Ask For in Disneyland

Tips, Merch, MerchandiseKatComment

Disneyland has an extensive amount of souvenirs, experiences, rides and attractions - so many that you’ll probably never run out of things to do and ways to make your trip special. But if you want to make your trip Extra Super Special, you can consider asking for a few of these:

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1. The Front Seat in the Monorail

We’ve done this, and it’s totally worth it. You need to ask a cast member while you’re in line for the Monorail if you can ride in the front - sometimes this means you’ll have to wait for a few cycles, if a lot of people have asked already. (This is why we’ve only ever asked when there is almost no line for the Monorail).

You’ll get the car basically to yourself, with a panoramic view of the ride! If you want an extra special view, take the Monorail into the park - the ride is longer and you see much more of the park!

disneyland railroad

2. Riding in the Lilly Belle

To tell the truth, we’ve never asked for this, even though we’ve thought about it about a billion times. Something about the process seems so intimidating!

The Lilly Belle is the fancy dining car at the back of one Disneyland Railroad train, only accessible if you ask for it first thing in the morning (so they say). If you’re lucky enough to get a seat, you’re in for an amazing Grand Circle Tour!

mark twain riverboat captain

3. Steering the Mark Twain

Again, we’ve never asked to do this (we’re shy, okay). But They say that if you ask, the Captain of the Mark Twain might let you steer! Apparently you even get a certificate! 

jungle cruise exit

4. A Jungle Cruise Map

Now this one we’ve actually done! You’ve got to luck out as sometimes they run out of maps, but if you ask for a map of the Jungle Cruise from a Cast Member as you’re exiting the ride, usually they’ll hand one out!

ghost relations department

5. A Death Certificate

This is a rumor that we’ve never tried. They say that if you ask for a Death Certificate from a cast member before you get on Haunted Mansion, they might have one for you by the time you exit the ride.

Obviously we aren’t an authority on all of these - but we'd love to hear from people who have been successful!