disney hollywood studios

Carrie and Patrick have been two dear friends of ours since we photographed their wedding years ago. (I feel so old saying “dear” friends, but couldn’t think of a substitute!) When Carrie wrote and asked if we’d be a part of her anniversary surprise for Patrick during their Walt Disney World trip, I was all in- Mainly because when Carrie surprises Patrick, it’s not “surprise! We’re going to dinner at your favorite restaurant!”… Or even, “Surprise! We’re going to dinner at your favorite restaurant and the Roots are here!” Ohhhhhh, no… This particular surprise consisted of her surprising him with her hair and make-up being done, wearing a gown from Rent the Runway, surprising him with a white tux, a fireworks cruise watching Epcot’s Illuminations front-and-center from the water, a private dinner in the Hollywood Tower Hotel, AND us showing up! I still hope Patrick was ok with that last part! ;)

The whole evening went perfectly, and despite feeling like a country bumpkin next to Carrie in her gold sequined gown, we had an amazing time and felt like ultimate VIPs. :)

Nate haaaaaaaates Illuminations. After much deliberation, I’ve decided to stay married to him, regardless. ;) (Nate note: Just the part where nothing interesting is happening! You know, like the whole middle.)

They seriously looked better than most celebrities at the Oscars!

My favorite part of the evening- We got to walk through the lobby of the Hollywood Tower Hotel! Past the rope and everything! ;)

Loooooooooooooooooove! Sad I never got a photo of me and Nate on the couch! :(

We were strictly told not to touch anything in the lobby, so Carrie pushed the boundaries as much as possible. ;)

Seriously- One of the coolest things I’ve ever been a part of! :)

The one thing I miss the most about being a cast member- Being the only one in a park at night! :) Carrie and Patrick, thank you for letting us tag along your anniversary adventure. We love you guys! :) If you’d like to read Carrie’s article on how to plan your own private dinner like she did for Patrick, you can find it here. And yes, it’s much more affordable than you think!!