Disney College Program Participant Spotlight: Rachel, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Hostess
- NEEDS REVISION ON THE USE OF HER NAME AND PRONOUMS
This year marks a very special anniversary for the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disney Springs. The location is celebrating 10 years of transforming little girls into princesses and little boys into knights, and ultimately, making dreams come true! To celebrate, we sat down with Rachel, a Disney College Program participant, to give us a glimpse of what it’s like to spend her days as a Fairy Godmother-in-Training at the Boutique.
After making sure her work area is show-ready, Rachel starts her day by greeting her first princess and helping her pick the perfect hairstyle. During the transformation, she uses products such as “Ariel’s Jellyfish Jelly” and “Elsa’s Freeze Spray” to help her stay in character and authentically interact with her princess.
“My favorite part about working at the Boutique is the fact that I get to come to work but it doesn’t actually feel like work. I’ve always dreamed of doing hair and makeup, and I love that I get to be a character to these girls but also be myself.”
Rachel undoubtedly experiences many special moments with families every day. She loves watching her princesses see themselves in the mirror for the first time after a transformation, and says it’s truly magical to see their faces light up with happiness. In addition to these moments, there are a few others that really stand out for Rachel.
“I recently had the honor of transforming a Make-A-Wish princess who had gone through three brain surgeries. Seeing how happy she was and how grateful her parents were made me realize that even just 30 minutes of my time can really impact someone’s vacation.”
Many College Program applicants think the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique role is only for those with specific cosmetology experience, but that’s not always the case. Rachel says a background in hair and makeup is a plus, but the role encompasses so much more than just that.
“You have to have a ton of energy, play the part and be completely committed to the role. Storytelling and being able to communicate with both children and adults is a huge part of being a great Fairy Godmother-in-Training.”
Rachel says she’s learned a lot about customer service from her role at the Boutique. She’s gained more confidence when dealing with different personalities and is proud of her quick problem-solving skills that aid her in turning the occasional negative situation into a positive one.
When asked what she will take away from her experience, Rachel joked, “A lot of pixie dust! I’m always covered in it!” All jokes aside, she says she will always remember the memories she’s made with her fellow cast members who have all helped her become a better person in some way.
Rachel’s advice for anyone interested in the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique role is to just go for it. She says it’s a good idea to use the interview time to stress any experience you have that could directly correlate to the role such as working with children, dance, theater, pageants or cheerleading.
“Even though I originally really wanted the Boutique, I accepted a role in attractions and accepted an extension offer with the Boutique. If you really want something, just keep trying!”
