As part of our on-going "5 Minutes With" series, every month we’ll introduce you to a new member of our Disney Meetings team at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Disneyland Resort in California or Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii. 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 Cheryl Fallon, Senior Sales Manager for Disney Catered Events at Disneyland Resort:

Hi, Cheryl, tell us about your role.

In my role with the Disney Catered Events team, I work with corporations, non-profit organizations, and other guests interested in hosting meetings, galas, holiday parties, service award dinners, picnics, birthday parties, anniversaries and family reunions at one of our three Disneyland convention hotels. My team is usually the first to speak with guests interested in learning about these opportunities. We discover what kind of event they are planning, what they want to accomplish, and their budget. Then, we are able to offer the private-event space that is the best fit for their event, as well as assist them with selecting overnight hotel accommodations, Disney Institute professional development programs, and Disney theme park tickets.

Can you tell us about a typical day at work?

I enjoy working here because I don’t have a typical day. On any given day, I can talk with a guest about an event, show banquet space at our hotels, visit a company to finalize a contract, or attend a planning session or meal tasting with a client. Additionally, when one of my clients' events is taking place onsite, I make sure their needs are met and expectations are exceeded.

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

During the event-planning phase, I try to get as much information about the event as possible. This not only helps me find the ideal location for the group’s event, but also allows me to gather important details that I then pass on to the catering and convention services manager. I will also do an introductory phone call between the client and the services manager to help make the event planning process as seamless and enjoyable as possible. 

Can you describe one of the most interesting or unique challenges you’ve had to overcome in your role?

Our guests often think Disney is just theme parks, but we offer so much more. My role is to show event planners and organizations that we have elegant and sophisticated private-event venues available, as well as outstanding culinary teams, and the legendary guest service only Disney can provide. Depending on the type of event a group wants to host, I also showcase our full-service creative resources team who can work with an event designer to envision the décor, entertainment, and messaging for the event. This is our Disney difference. 

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

In March, we hosted a charity organization’s gala at Disneyland Hotel for the second year as a fundraiser to support children with cancer and their families. The charity organization held this event at other venues before coming to Disneyland Resort, but they felt that being at a Disney resort greatly improved their attendance, and donations have increased significantly as a result. It's a beautiful event, and it's inspiring to see how this group gives joy and support to these children and their families.

What is your favorite part of your role?

My favorite part of my role is the relationship I build with our guests and clients. I have worked with several of my groups for over 15 years, assisting them with their events each time they return to the resort. I am thankful when they recommend me to their friends or work associates to assist with other events. 

What challenges or inspires you every day? 

Every event is unique and different, which is both a challenge and a source of inspiration. Sometimes clients need to plan an event but haven’t decided on the details. I try to discover their goals and showcase what the resort can offer to help them achieve these goals. We try to make each event the best experience for our guests, and it makes me happy when they want to return.

Tell us – How does Cheryl’s story inspire you? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn using hashtag #DisneyMeetingsBlog. 

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 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.