Hosting the Disney Magic: Rachel, Guest Experience Catering Manager
Have you ever wondered what it takes to create one-of-a-kind events at Walt Disney World? Meet Rachel! As a Guest Experience Manager in Catering, she helps put on unique experiences at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. She has brought the Disney touch to private events of all shapes and sizes for seven years— and she says it never gets old.
“It’s hard to pick just one favorite part of the day,” Rachel said. “Every event that we host is different and you never know who will be attending!”
Rachel began making magic with Disney as a Disney College Program participant. After her program, she pivoted to working in events, a long-standing passion made stronger through mentorship and friendship.
“I have had some amazing leaders and peers who have taken me under their wing and helped me to grow,” Rachel said. “Every role that I had has taught me something new and helped prepare me for where I am now.”
As a Guest Experience Catering Manager, Rachel brings the Disney touch to private events in a variety of ways. Handling all day-of operations, her team manages housemen, servers, catering concierge, event guides, and stewards to ensure picture-perfect logistics. With so many moving parts—and sometimes multiple events at once—Rachel says that partnering and organization are key!
“Disney is all about networking with fellow cast members and partners…each cast member has a role to play. Without each other, we would not be successful,” Rachel said.
From convention groups and park buyouts, to the Pro Bowl and Disney Fairy Tale Weddings, Rachel has been behind numerous spectacular events at the company. Rachel says that being able to care for guests through these events is what continues to affirm her love for working in events.
“My favorite part of the day is when the doors open and the event begins,” Rachel said. “Knowing that I have a small role in the most important days in some of our guests’ lives is a humbling experience.”
Rachel enjoys playing a part in guests’ memorable experiences through her role. And even more, she enjoys witnessing the sense of pride cast members at Disney have in the work they do.
“The Walt Disney World name holds so much power,” Rachel said. “When we put on that Disney name tag, we truly become a part of something bigger than ourselves.”
To any future Disney cast members, Rachel shared this piece of advice, “Disney is a great company to work for. There are so many different places to work and many different cast offerings and benefits as well! I started on the Disney College Program, and it taught me so much. I would highly recommend this to anyone. My advice would also be to meet with as many people as possible. Networking is so important at Disney. You never know what opportunities may come out of this!”
To learn more about opportunities at The Walt Disney Company, please visit www.disneycareers.com!
