An In-Depth Look at ‘The Vault’ Disney World 50th Anniversary Merchandise Collection
Lat month, Disney introduced us to the several new merchandise collections that were being released as part of Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary. “The World’s Most Magical Celebration!” Today, Disney World is giving us an even more in-depth look at “The Vault” collection including an interview with Senior Merchandise Brand Manager, Kevin-Michael Lezotte or (K-M) who helped bring this throwback collection to life.
Credit: Disney
“The Vault” merchandise collection is described as “nostalgic replicas from the 1970s – with a modern twist” and it will certainly be a big hit with Disney fans that were at Walt Disney World on opening day on October 1, 1971 to the littlest ones who will be making their first visit to “The Most Magical Place on Earth” to kick off the celebrations on October 1, 2021.
Let’s get to know more about Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary “The Vault” merchandise collection with K-M who was interviewed by Ashley Cortez, Owned and Operated Commercial and Marketing Associate Manager:
Credit: Disney
Q: Can you tell me what it was like designing the collection?
A: Where do I begin? My love of the Vault Collection literally started 35 years ago when I began my Disney career at EPCOT! I’ve always been a huge fan of the Disney brand, the amazing experiences we deliver in the theme parks around the world and our incredible merchandise. Over two years ago, I was asked to be a member of our first task force to brainstorm the merchandise for the Walt Disney World 50th anniversary celebration. The small team I was a part of came up with the idea of reaching back into our merchandise history to “bring back” key souvenirs and inspire some new products. Hence, the Vault Collection.
Credit: Disney
Q: I absolutely love the retro look and feel. Can you describe the collection and the inspiration behind the magic?
A: The Vault Collection is made up of two main categories:
- “Replica” – Looking to the 1970s for those key souvenirs we lovingly re-created for this celebration.
- “Inspired By” – Taking cues from the retro art and styles over the decades, we’ve created a collection of modern and relevant items appealing to our guests today.
For me, the inspiration was our most fervent fans and collectors. I’m a huge fan and collector myself, and I know what it feels like to get something you love and didn’t think you’d ever find. These replica items will take some of our guests back to a time long ago when they were little and experienced the parks for the first time with their friends and family. Fun fact: A group of our team members went to the Walt Disney Archives to photograph many of the incredible souvenirs, and used those photos to help create some of the Vault Collection pieces you will see starting Oct. 1!
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Q: There are so many great items coming for the 50th anniversary celebration, but I can’t wait to pick up the replica Minnie Mouse ears and Loungefly lunch box crossbody. They are so cute! K-M, what are your must-haves from the collection?
A: I love the retro items in the home décor assortment. The castle trinket tray and the classic “milk glass” mugs are so cool!
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Q: I have to ask … do you have any favorites from the original items that the team replicated in the new Vault Collection?
A: There are too many to choose from but here are two. First, the retro plastic Minnie headband. This was one of the first things I purchased myself in the late ’80s. I removed the bow and proudly wore the Mickey ears when visiting the parks, and I still have my original pair! Second, it’s a Vault Collection drop coming later. It’s inspired by the looks of the year I started working at Walt Disney World Resort.
Image Credit: Disney
Most items from “The Vault” Collection will go on sale beginning on October 1, 2021. But, even more items will be released during the 18-month long “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.”
Guests attending Walt Disney World during the 18-month long 50th Anniversary festivities will be able to purchase their favorite items from the “The Vault” collection at all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks, Walt Disney World Resort Hotels, and the World of Disney Store in Disney Springs. In addition, select items will be available on shopDisney.com.
It’s not too late to start planning your visit to celebrate 50 years of Walt Disney World magic! But, hurry as rooms are very limited! Fill out the form below or send an email to Holly@MickeyTravels.com for a FREE, no-obligation quote to book your Disney vacation. As an agent with MickeyTravels (a Platinum Earmarked Agency), I will be on hand to help you with everything from finding your perfect package and I offer rate monitoring to ensure you are receiving the best rate available by Disney! I work with all Disney Destinations and destinations outside of Disney. Best of all, my services are absolutely FREE. Get in touch via email at Holly@MickeyTravels.com or calling 954.401.9577. Also, make sure to CLICK HERE to follow along with my Facebook page for all things Disney and giveaways!
Image/Source Credit: Disney
