Well Hello Magic: A Disney Planning & Experience Podcast
Jessica Mickelson is the voice behind Well Hello Magic, a Disney-loving mom of four, former therapist, podcast host, content creator, and your go-to expert for planning joyful, stress-free Disney vacations.
A lifelong Disney fan raised on Main Street magic and Mickey-shaped memories, Jessica now helps families, moms, and first-time travelers confidently plan trips to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, and beyond without losing their minds (or their budget).
As a mom who’s done it all from toddler meltdowns to teens chasing thrill rides, from multigenerational trips to magical girls' weekends. Jessica offers real-world advice rooted in emotional insight, practical planning, and a deep love of Disney storytelling. Whether you're traveling solo, with a stroller brigade, or booking for a party of 14, Jessica gives you the tools to make it magical your way.
On the Podcast she shares Disney vacation tips, park planning strategies, event guides (like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party), and emotional reflections from inside the parks alongside expert guests and fellow moms who love magic as much as she does.
In addition to blogging and podcasting, Jessica creates daily content on Instagram and YouTube, where she blends humor, hacks, and heartfelt moments into helpful videos and reels for Disney travelers of all kinds.
When she’s not answering DMs about Lighting Lane or testing out stroller nap strategies, you’ll find her:
- Baking Disney-themed sugar cookies for her brand Well Hello Cookie
- Running her sign rental business Sign Gypsies Lehigh Valley
- Writing her debut YA novel series, Foreign Parents Syndrome
- Planning her annual Disney mom retreat, The Enchanted Escape
With thousands of families already turning to her for first-time Disney planning help, budget-friendly vacation strategies, and military Disney discounts
Well Hello Magic: A Disney Planning & Experience Podcast
101: Planning a Disney Vacation during the Winter Holiday: How to Create Holiday Magic Without the Overwhelm
In this week’s episode, I’m sharing my full planning and preparation process for our 2024 Disney Christmas vacation — and how you can start getting ready for 2025 and 2026 if you want to be in the parks during the most magical time of year.
I walk you through every detail of our trip, from Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Moonlight Magic at Animal Kingdom to our stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidani Village. You’ll hear why we chose to skip Jollywood Nights last year, how we added cozy touches like sleigh rides, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue, and Chip ’n’ Dale’s Campfire, and all about the holiday outfits we picked to match the festive atmosphere.
We also explore the resort side of the holidays — from the incredible gingerbread houses at the Grand Floridian and Beach Club to the breathtaking Christmas trees at Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom Lodge, and beyond.
Throughout the episode, I’ll teach you how to plan an intentional Disney Christmas vacation — one that balances the sparkle and excitement of the season with a sense of peace and joy. If you’re dreaming of a Disney holiday trip in 2025 or 2026, this episode will help you capture all the winter magic without the overwhelm.
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