It’s no secret that Disney merchandise can be expensive. With t-shirts now averaging $30-$40 and Minnie Ears priced at $27.99, merchandise seems to be getting more and more pricey as time goes on.
Disney is already expensive as it is, and with so much incredible merchandise coming out there is always pressure to stay ‘on top’ and have the best and newest bags, ears, etc.
Enter the Disney Character Warehouse. Unlike other discount ‘Disney Outlet’ stores, this one is actually owned by Disney, and has official cast member employees. There are two current locations that I know of, one at the Orlando Premium Outlets, and another at Sawgrass Mills in Sunrise, FL. We went to the Sawgrass Mills location because it is about 15 minutes away from where we currently live. I have heard this one is ‘better’ but I have not visited the Orlando one so I cannot make that comparison.
For Disney fans, this store is a hidden gold mine. While not large, it has many things such as princess costumes, home goods, clothing, toys, bags, etc., for usually a 50% discount or greater. Princess dresses have always been priced at $25 when they usually retail for $60 or more at Disney; and stuffed toys range from $5-15. I have seen Minnie Ears there for only $8!
Some of the famous collaboration brands at the store that I have seen include Loungefly, Her Universe, Shop Harvey’s, Dooney & Bourke, Danielle Nicole, and of course, Kate Spade.
Usually excess products end up here, so they will end up at the store a few months after originally launching. You never know what (or when) an item will show up.
In my case, we had just happened to be at Sawgrass Mills trying out a new restaurant and decided to stop by. Apparently they had just received these new Kate Spade bags the day before, so I have no idea if they are still available. This particular bag is currently sold out online but originally was priced at $218. I purchased it brand new and still completely wrapped (the cast member at the store said ‘untouched by human hands’ haha) for $108, which I think is quite a steal considering its Kate Spade!
I personally wouldn’t make the three hour drive from Orlando down to South Florida to go to the store, but if you’re in the area it’s definitely worth a visit! I think the Orlando location is great for those already at Disney World on vacation. If anything, it’s a great place to buy Christmas gifts!
Do you have any tips for buying discounted Disney merchandise? Please share them below!