About Magic in the Planning | Meet Alyssa Howard
Welcome!
Hi, I’m Alyssa — and I’m so glad you’re here.
If you’re looking for a Disney planning resource written by someone who lives in the parks every week, this probably isn’t it.
But if you’re looking for a real mom who plans Disney trips the same way you do — around school schedules, budgets, nap times, and once-in-a-lifetime expectations — then you’re in the right place.
I created Magic in the Planning to help everyday families plan Disney vacations without overwhelm, confusion, or the feeling that you “should already know this.”
I still remember my very first trip to Walt Disney World. It sparked something in me that never really went away.
When I was just 10 years old, I did what most kids don’t: I planned the entire family Disney itinerary. I made my own guidebook with scissors, markers, and a whole lot of excitement. (I still have it, and yes — it’s as charming as you’d imagine.)
That trip changed everything.
Back then, there was no internet full of blogs, videos, and planning hacks. I relied on library guidebooks and pure obsession-level curiosity. When my mom let me take over the planning for our next Disney vacation, I realized something important:
I didn’t just enjoy Disney — I loved planning Disney.
Over the years, that childhood passion turned into real-world experience.
Now I’m a wife and mom, and I plan Disney vacations very differently than I did at 10 — but I still carry that same excitement into every trip.
I’ve planned:
- Magical getaways with just my husband
- Family trips with toddlers
- Multi-generational vacations with grandparents
- Family vacations now with teens
- Disney Cruise Line vacations
- Numerous trips to both Walt Disney World and Disneyland
And if there’s one thing I’ve learned through all of them, it’s this:
No two Disney trips are ever the same — and most families are trying to figure it out while juggling real life.
That’s exactly why I built this space.
Unlike bloggers who visit Disney every month or hold annual passes, I’m planning from the same place you are — home.
I understand what it’s like to:
Plan months in advance without being on-site
Try to make the “perfect” itinerary without wasting money or time
Balance excitement with realistic expectations
Make Disney feel magical without it feeling stressful
And honestly, I think that’s my strength.
I’m not removed from the planning process — I’m in it with you.
And that’s how Magic in the Planning was born.
Launched in July 2019, this site exists for one purpose: to bring the magic back into Disney vacation planning — especially for families who don’t do this every day.
Because planning a Disney trip should feel exciting… not overwhelming.
And yes — we all agree that stress-free planning is better.
I’m so glad you’re here!
A little more about me…
I’ve been married since 2010, and my husband and I have two daughters who have grown up right alongside our Disney adventures. We also have a corgi named Winnie who absolutely believes she is part of every plan we make.
When I’m not writing or homeschooling, I’m usually:
- Planning our next Disney trip (of course)
- Watching my girls flip around at gymnastics
- Or enjoying coffee and family movie nights
We’ve traveled multiple times to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and have sailed on several Disney Cruise Line vacations over the past several years. Each trip has taught me something new — and I bring all of that experience back here to share with you.
My goal is simple:
To help you feel confident, prepared, and excited about your Disney vacation — no matter how many times you’ve been before.
Ready to start planning? Start here with my step-by-step Disney planning guide.
For more information about Magic in the Planning and how we function, be sure to check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure Information.