We went to the dessert party last Friday (10-5), and did not have parade viewing but people who did were not let into the party any earlier. We checked in at 4:10- in retrospect that was a mistake. When we went back at 8:45 (I think garden viewing is still 8:30), which is when people with the terrace viewing were allowed back for desserts, and we
still had to wait in line to re-check in even though we had our lanyards. We were not given the option of reserving a table at 4:10.
We ate desserts for 15 minutes or so (I'd say 8:50-9:05), and left to go find a spot to view the parade. At that point, the people who had parade viewing were congregating at the check in area and waiting for a cast member to walk them to the viewing space. We turned left on Main Street and easily found a spot next to a few trash cans in front of the bakery. There were two rows of people in front of us sitting, so DD in her stroller and me standing could see perfectly behind them. When the parade ended, I even had time to shop for some party merch at the Emporium before heading back to Tommorowland Terrace and grabbing another plate of treats to eat during the fireworks.
The desserts were fun - not great (DD actually didn't like most of them), but having a comfortable place to sit and watch the fireworks was wonderful!! Enjoy!!