As part of our on-going "5 Minutes With" series, every month we’ll introduce you to a new member of our Disney Meetings & Events team. Whether they work in our Disney Convention Resorts, Theme Park Operations, Catering and Convention Services, Sales, Entertainment or dozens of other event-support areas, these Cast Members and their teams are responsible for creating magical experiences and unforgettable events for meeting and event industry professionals, and their important attendees and guests, every single day.

Let’s meet Frankie Valentin, Client Acquisition & Event Development Manager at the Walt Disney World Resort:

How do you and your team work with meeting and event planners?

Our team partners with the Sales Managers to understand the client’s needs. We custom tailor one-of-a-kind site visit experiences that provide innovative solutions and leverage our Disney Differences.

Can you describe one of your best Disney memories related to your position assisting a convention or meeting group?

Throughout the year we host Disney Product Orientations, also known as FAMs. As I plan these experiences, I am always looking for ways to surprise and delight our clients while showcasing unique events. One of my favorite memories is hosting clients in the Magic Kingdom as the park is about to open and being among the first to walk down Main Street, U.S.A. 

As the sun rises over the castle, it is rewarding to see the excitement on our clients’ faces as they relive childhood memories or create new memories of their very first visit to the Walt Disney World Resort. We wrap up the morning by enjoying breakfast overlooking Cinderella Castle and listening to a guest speaker share the history of Main Street, U.S.A.

What is one of the greatest Disney Differences for attendees meeting at a Disney destination?

One of the greatest Disney Differences for attendees is the wealth of creative resources we can provide. Prior to our site visits, I engage our creative resources for meetings and events, to take the client’s vision and bring their story to life. 

During the site inspection, we incorporate entertainment, floral, and multimedia to create a dynamic experience for our clients and spark their imagination. Our clients can then utilize these products and services as they begin their planning process.

What are some of the latest, most innovative trends you are seeing in the industry? How do you incorporate these trends into your client’s meeting or event?

In a rapidly-evolving events industry, customization is key. Our clients are always challenged to set their meetings apart. As their meetings destination, we must always be on the forefront. From a custom atmosphere character to a unique culinary experience crafted by a Disney Chef, our clients can expect a completely immersive event from beginning to end.

What is your favorite part of your role?

My favorite part of my role is being able to connect the Disney brand in a subtle way to all site visits by enhancing the guest experience with surprise and delight touches during their time with us. 

What can attendees look forward to when meeting at a Disney destination?

Attendees can look forward to immersive product offerings at our parks as well as many of our resorts. They can also look forward to improved networking environments in our convention centers and innovative experiences that only Disney can provide. One example I am looking forward to is the new show kitchen in Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, which can host culinary demonstrations and entertain guests before and after meetings.

Tell us - How does Frankie’s story inspire you? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Instagram using #DisneyMeetingsAndEventsBlog. 

We're eager to help you create the perfect meeting or private event for any size group, theme and objective. To speak with a Disney Meetings & Events representative about our pricing and options available at our Disney Parks & Resorts destinations in Florida, California, Hawaii or at our international destinations, please contact us or submit a request for proposal or sign up to stay in touch and continue learning more about Disney meetings and events.