Character dining etiquette

Pdollar88

DIS Veteran
Joined
Aug 20, 2017
I know I’m overthinking this by a mile, but I’m growing more nervous about my solo character dining next week (Akershus and Artist Point).

When characters come to your table, do you stand for photos? Or stay seated? Are selfies okay? (I’m a solo adult traveler). Also, is it okay to ask for signatures?
 
I know I’m overthinking this by a mile, but I’m growing more nervous about my solo character dining next week (Akershus and Artist Point).

When characters come to your table, do you stand for photos? Or stay seated? Are selfies okay? (I’m a solo adult traveler). Also, is it okay to ask for signatures?

You can certainly stand for photos if you like, or stay seated! Yes, asking for autographs is perfectly fine. You may want to bring your own pen/sharpie. Have a great time! :)
 
You can do whatever you’re comfortable with. Sometimes if you remain seated the characters will ask (or gesture) if you’d like to stand up for a photo. Selfies are fine, some characters ham it up more than others for that. Completely Ok to ask for signatures! You will likely see the characters go to other tables before yours, so you’ll be able to see how it goes. We like to stand and pose for a photo (usually there is a handler or server nearby to take your photo as well, or even ask a fellow diner), and then get an autograph, and we’ll usually chat for a minute. We’ve asked Stitch how his badness level is, or I’ve mentioned to Lady Tremaine that I am also a stepmother. The reactions are usually fun.
 


We just went to Akershus last week and they were very flexible going with whatever makes you comfortable. Bring a pen for autographs, but they do have pens if needed.
 
Really don't worry about it. I have been solo to more than one character meal and it is no big deal at all. The characters take the lead, really. They're great.
 
I know I’m overthinking this by a mile, but I’m growing more nervous about my solo character dining next week (Akershus and Artist Point).

When characters come to your table, do you stand for photos? Or stay seated? Are selfies okay? (I’m a solo adult traveler). Also, is it okay to ask for signatures?

I'm an experienced solo character diner (though I haven't been down since Artist Point converted) and here are some tips I've found come in handy:

- When your host or hostess shows you to your table, remind them that you're dining solo and ask if you might be able to get some assistance with photos when the characters arrive. Sometimes the CMs will have the time/opportunity to take photos for you.

- Also, make sure to let your waiter/waitress know that you are in fact interested in meeting the characters. I've had one or two occasions where they assumed because I was an adult male dining solo that I wasn't there for that, but it's one of my favorite things to do at WDW. Also, if a character misses your table for whatever reason -- for example, if at Akershus you're up at the buffet when Ariel stops by -- let your waiter/waitress know, and they'll have the character swing back.

- If you can get someone to take the photo for you -- whether a CM or a nearby friendly guest -- selfies are definitely fine. I always ask the character to be certain, but I've never been told no.

- Characters will sign autographs, same as if you were meeting at a character spot. As previously mentioned in the thread, some characters (mostly fur characters with unwieldy hands/paws) will have a stamp or a card instead of signing. Also, same rules as the meets apply: particularly that they will sign articles of clothing, but not if you're wearing it. I've done pretty much everything EXCEPT the standard Disney autograph book. You'll definitely want to have whatever you're getting signed out and ready before the character arrives at your table.

- Be nice and be courteous, and you'll have fun.
 


Thank you everyone for the wonderful replies! I’m breathing a little easier reading everyone’s experiences and reassurances!
 
Update - I shouldn’t have been worried, surprise surprise!

The cast members at Artist Point were wonderful and really put me at ease. The characters motioned for folks to come take our photo and gently led me through the process. Loved it!
 
Last edited:
Of course it's okay to take selfies! In fact, it's my preferred method of photo taking because when I rely on others to take the photo, they get my band angle or they're in a rush so they don't bother to make sure I'm smiling. The character's never showed any problems with selfies either. In my experience, they've usually just gone along with it and do a peace sign or kiss my cheek or something. It kind of puts a twist on the interaction. And yes, autographs of course are welcomed. I'm sure standing up would make photos simpler, whether you take the selfie or have someone else take the photo route, but I don't see why sitting down would be an issue or anything.
 
Update - I shouldn’t have been worried, surprise surprise!

The cast members at Artist Point were wonderful and really put me at ease. The characters motioned for folks to come take our photo and gently led me through the process. Loved it!
I know this is old, but, this is SO reassuring, I have never been a solo traveller and, I have booked a couple (OK 3) character meals - I know, but it's part of WDW for me. I have been worried in case it is an odd thing to do as a solo adult.
 
I know this is old, but, this is SO reassuring, I have never been a solo traveller and, I have booked a couple (OK 3) character meals - I know, but it's part of WDW for me. I have been worried in case it is an odd thing to do as a solo adult.

Nothing to worry about. It is not odd or awkward at all.
 

GET A DISNEY VACATION QUOTE

Dreams Unlimited Travel is committed to providing you with the very best vacation planning experience possible. Our Vacation Planners are experts and will share their honest advice to help you have a magical vacation.

Let us help you with your next Disney Vacation!






Top