What Not Being Invited to Disney Social Media Moms Means
I was one of those. I probably hit refresh on my email about 200 times. I stalked the #DisneySMMC hashtag on twitter. I intently read every line of the Facebook Group. And after the 201 refresh button was pushed, the realization set in. I was not invited. A new mixture of emotions came over me as I took the weekend to reflect on what this means for me and my blog. Not being invited to Disney Social Media Moms may be the best thing that has happened to me. And here’s 5 reasons why:
1. Because the world would break if Disney allowed everyone to come
Let’s face it. The Disney fanatical fan-dom is impressively huge. If Disney gave an open invitation to such an event, think of all of the thousands of Disney moms that would attend (and let’s face it, create a blog just to be able to come). The invite would become Disney-ingenuine (yes, that’s my own word). The hype not as special, the magic not as real. The #DisneySMMC hashtag would be worn out, probably breaking the internet. The hotels overrun and the parks in selfie-overload, yes the world of Disney would be utter chaos. Disney has an organization, a thorough team and years of experience with this type of conference. They know what they’re doing.
Reading the #DisneySMMC is a dose of happiness. So much support & ❤️ for fellow bloggers!! Congrats everyone!
— Saving Said Simply (@savinsaidsimply) March 21, 2015
2. There’s no Mean Girls here
Ok, I may get some angry folks with this one, but the reality is that I have seen far too many bloggers that act like we are “still in high school.” The competitiveness, cattiness, greed, and ego all easily get in the way. We passive aggressively take out the blogger “leftovers” feeling on others, making sure the world knows how hurt we are that we weren’t a part of the “IN” crowd. But just for a moment, go search the #DisneySMMC hashtag. Read line after line. You won’t find a word of hate or disrespect. Not a sad emoji or an evil hashtag attachment. While the buzz and excitement from the attendees are real, so are the genuine comments from bloggers that were NOT invited. I found myself filled with love and excitement too, part of the cheer crowd. It’s so hard NOT to smile at those who got the email for the first time, big bloggers and small bloggers alike. Those bringing their families for their first ever Disney World experience. Or how the email came at the perfect time when t hey were questioning their blogging lives. The atmosphere was so grasping, I felt compelled to leave some love for all of my fellow blogging buddies. To be seen and recognized by Disney for your blogging work is like a medal in a race. An ultimate “you are doing a good job” pat on the back. I get that. So to shout the good news in all of social media land and receive love and praise back from bloggers you know and don’t know, it’s the ultimate support group. And nothing but love.
3. Crying is acceptable
It wouldn’t be human if I buried my disappointment in this post. After last year’s excitement of being invited to the 2014 blessed event, I thought for sure I was on the Disney radar. So when the emails came and went, the shock was inevitable. The second guessing and the nit picking of my blog was underway and I tried to determine where I went wrong from 2014 to 2015. And for a few hidden in the closet moments, I did let a few tears fall. But don’t let those tears or disappointment consume you. You are better and more awesome than that. Because we have #4 on the list.
4. There’s no motivation like Disney motivation
Disney recognizing the best social media moms in the country. It’s truly an honor. And not because they love Disney (though c’mon, who doesn’t?), but because the words they write, the people they inspire, the mark they leave on the world is palpable. I only hope to aspire to be as amazing. So there really is not motivation like Disney Social Media Moms motivation. It only makes me want to strive harder to improve my voice, my reach and my determination to be the best mom blogger I can be. To blog for ME and be absolutely unique, in the hopes that someone will see and recognize my blog as a diamond in the rough too (Thanks, Aladdin). So while it may be back to the drawing board for 2015, I’m am feeling more determined to be at the top of the invite list for next year. To be recognized by Disney as a force to be reckoned with in the social media world, I am typing with more fervor.
I’ve never felt so many emotions at once. Joy, humility and sadness that I cannot attend. #DisneySMMoms you made me smile! I’m hoping for next year! #feelinghumble #disneyloved A photo posted by Christie (@savingsaidsimply) on
5. There’s still hope.
Hope is an amazing emotion, even in the midst of the excitement such as Disney Social Media Moms. Inevitably, not everyone will be able to come. There will be a Group “B” set of emails sent out, maybe even a Group “C.” And the feeling is just as magical. And if you do not receive one of those emails for 2015, there’s even hope still. Disney SMMC On the Road Events occur throughout the year. So if you haven’t signed up for the Disney SMMC On The Road events, do that now. Right now. I’ll wait. So pixie dust may come your way even still. And if through all of other amazing Disney SMMC events are still not in your forecast, there’s hope for 2016. And 2017. And infinity and beyond. The point is to always hang on to your Disney hope.
So what does NOT being invited to Disney Social Media Moms REALLY mean?
Well, nothing really. You’re still an amazing blogger whether you get the golden ticket or not. Do not let this moment define you, or your blog or your passion. Do not let the dark cloud circle above your head until next year. Instead, join in the celebration and excitement and pure Disney joy for everyone that received a really special email. It’s fun just to search the hashtag and get a daily dose of “happy.” Focus on being the best social media mom out there, whether you have that “Disney” word attachment or not. I won’t let these few days in my life define my lifetime. But to hold onto that Disney dream…that’s something worth blogging about. We are all going to be ok.
Maybe 2016 will be our #DisneySMMC year. Are you still hoping?
Be sure to follow Raising Whasians for more of my honest moments, Disney tips, and more.
Ann Bacciaglia says
I hope you get invited next year. It would be such an amazing trip.
Christie says
That would be fun, thanks Ann! But either way, I’ll be ok 🙂
Rosey says
I always hear people talking about the Disney social media opportunities. I think they must be really great. 🙂
Christie says
I definitely think so too! I was stalking the hashtag last year, so much fun!
eliz frank says
Hi Christie,
When I read your post title, I was curious to read the rest. Until now, I’d never heard of the conference or invites. Congrats to all! I’ve decided to leave a comment because I want you to know that in my book, you are a winning mom and a thoughtful, winning blogger.
In the 6+ years I’ve been blogging, I’ve met my share of the mean, competitive, nastiness you described, and I’ve also been blessed to meet bloggers, like you, who are team players, generous, and helpful to other bloggers. I know you love blogging and the exchanges that come with it, and your enthusiasm for the successes of others will come back to you in bucketfuls. Stay the course and keep on blogging, I’m delighted to be connected with bloggers like you. 🙂
Eliz
Christie says
Wow, this made my day Liz! Thanks so much for such nice compliments! Wishing you the best in blogging too!
Chrystal @ YUM eating says
I am so glad you were able to take a sad moment and really turn it in to a positive one. That says a lot about you and your character. You’ve done amazing work here on the website and we notice.
Christie says
Thanks, Chrystal! Appreciate the kind words
Amanda says
We have the best job in the world! There are so many opportunities out there. I’m sure the perfect one will come for you!
Christie says
Definitely, Amanda! I’m sure there will be other awesome opps!
Angela says
There are so many bloggers these days, but there is definitely still hope. Disney invites a ton of first timers each year.
Christie says
Definitely! It’s such joy to see their excitement too!
Beth@FrugalFroggie says
I haven’t been ever invited to anything for Disney. Maybe if I get my numbers up?
Christie says
I don’t think it’s #’s Beth. I think it’s just Disney magic
Donna says
Great attitude! Personally, I’d rather go to Disney with my family and enjoy it without obligations, so I’ve never even tried to get onto Disney Social Media Moms radar, but I love hearing all about it from the moms that do get invited. Good luck to you for next year!
Christie says
Thanks, Donna! Yes a Disney vacay is just as magical!
Alison says
Thank you for this post…I was not invited last year, but I was quite new to the blogosphere…I just knew I was getting the invite this year…I knew it…then it didn’t come. I was crushed…for a moment, but still thrilled for everyone that did get an invite. I told myself I’ll just work harder and next year will be my year and I just filled out the survey for an OTR event so there’s always that too! Thanks for letting me know it’s okay to be happy for everyone else and a little bit sad for yourself all at the same time 🙂
Christie says
YAY! Hope you get the OTR. That would be so fun! I’m working harder too 🙂
Kiwi says
Look for the last two years I have been seeing people brag about being invited as a Disney SM Mom! I simply am not qualified yet for the fact I dont have kids…so whenever that happens I will have no choice but to wait. Sounds exciting and no one does it better than Disney.
Also Christie you are blessed with super Disney perks. You went to Cinderella!! OMG I followed your entire trip…maybe Disney didnt pick you because of last year and other projects they already have in the works for you. Your’e doing great!
Christie says
Thanks for your thoughts, Kiwi. I definitely am blessed with other Disney perks. I think that’s why the disappointment hit so hard. I thought I was “in.” But the Disney SMMC is a conference for more than just moms, so there’s hope for you too! I’ll just keep working harder
Ann says
THANK YOU for writng this! I needed to read this…I thought I was the only one who shed a tear or two 🙂
Christie says
Thanks for sharing the “tears” with me, Ann!
Danielle says
Good for you! I didn’t get an invite either, I wasn’t expecting one this year though. Here’s hoping for next year! Great post, and even better attitude! XOXO
Christie says
Thank you, Danielle! Definitely cheers to next year!
Nancy Johnson Horn says
I’ve been in the space for a long time (since 2007, but wrote for other sites/blogs and finally started my own in 2011). I’ll totally admit I was upset about not being invited.. again. But I decided that I could be upset or I could worry about other things (unfortunately an old friend passed away Saturday morning). I still would go to Disney in a heartbeat, but you’re right, it is a supportive community and I am happy for everyone. One of my best (blogging) friends finally received her golden ticket and I am honestly thrilled for her. My time will come eventually.
Christie says
Yes, there’s so much else to focus on, Nancy! Thanks for sharing
Amanda says
Christie, you said everything I’ve been thinking! It’s true, I’m a little sad I also wasn’t one of the “lucky ones”, but I’m so very happy for all those that got chosen, whether I know them or not. It is an incredible opportunity, and someday I hope it is my turn to attend.
Christie says
Hope to see you there one day, Amanda!
Debbie L. says
I have to agree with you about the high school girls in groups. It is unbelievable what some people think is acceptable behavior.
Christie says
I think we all can be a little more grown up about this 🙂 Thanks, Debbie
Shannon gURNEE says
I’ve been blogging for almost 7 years and have never been invited to Disney Social Media Moms once. Yes, I’ve thought once or twice – well what’s wrong with me – but the fact is that there is nothing wrong with me! The problem is that there are a ton of bloggers and not everyone can go! Thanks for sharing.
Christie says
There’s definitely NOTHING wrong with you, Shannon! You’re an awesome blogger
Lisa Peek says
Christie!
Thanks for the read. I’m a new mom blogger and I stumbled upon DisneySMMC and started reading more and became so intrigued. I love what you had to say about the support for fellow bloggers amongst the Disney moms so I’m hoping I can sneak my way into some of this positivity and support eventually. I’m gonna follow you and some others and hope to learn from some of the wise owls 🙂 I’m sorry you didn’t get your invite but I love your attitude about it. I took your advice and tried to sign up for one of the road events, however based on the questions I’m sure I won’t get picked. I definitely don’t have much “offline” connections with moms as my kids are only 2 and 4mo. That’s okay though! I’m gonna keep doing my thing and sharing it with others and following awesome blogs like yours. 😀 Thanks!
Christie says
Thank you for reading and following! Hoping we all get that Disney dream one day
Kimberly at www.fitdisneymom.com says
Congratulations on your 2016 invite! I’m so happy for you. It seems like an amazing opportunity, but a learning experience if you get a coveted invite or not.
christie says
Thanks, Kimberly! Amazing what a difference a year makes 🙂 I’m still learning everyday, and I’m so glad to have the opportunity!
Bernadette @ Mom+Carrot says
Is it still possible to sign up for Disney SMMC on the road events? If so, how do you find the info. Thank you for such an uplifting article for new bloggers like me.
christie says
Bernadette – I believe they stopped doing the On the Road events, which is why the link was removed. No one knows how to get on the Disney radar. But being active with the hashtag #DisneySMMC and the twitter handle @disneymoms may help