Magic. Fantasy. Imagination. That’s what Disney fans felt the moment they entered the first Disney Store in the Philippines, which opened last Friday, Sept. 27 on the ground level of SM Mall of Asia.
Whether you’re a Star Wars fan, a wanna-be Disney Princess like celebrity kids Sarina Hilario and Jette Blackman of The Blackman Family, or you simply love Mickey like sneakerhead Big Boy Cheng (who, by the way, owns a limited-edition Mickey Mouse Vespa and many other cool things), you’re in for a “reel” treat.
“The stories and characters from Disney, Pixar, Star Wars and Marvel hold a special place in many Filipinos’ hearts and in mine,” enthused Sara Grewal, retail VP, Disney Consumer Products Asia-Pacific, during the press preview on Aug. 26. “The Disney Store is a place where our stories come to live. I hope you’ll have a magical time today as we unlock the doors to the Disney Store together.”
As soon as the doors were unlocked by SM Supermalls president Steven Tan, International Toy World Inc. president Rosemarie Dylim, Disney APAC Retail Store business development director Sonal Patel and Grewal, everyone swarmed in to get their hands on their fave Disney merch.
Big Boy immediately grabbed the biggest Mickey Mouse and Kermit The Frog plushies he could find. Sarina and Jette couldn’t keep their hands off the Disney Princess gowns, shoes and tiaras. And while I contemplated getting the Star Wars lightsaber tumbler for my son, or the Mickey ears cap/headband I’ve always fancied as a kid, this time, they all came in different styles and fabrics: some with glitter, some with sparkly bows, even one where the iconic ears are replaced with pineapple slices in bright yellow.
The Disney Animators’ Dolls were also a big hit among the early birds. Celebrating the heritage of classic Disney animation, Disney Store’s series of young heroine dolls created under the guidance of the Walt Disney Animation Studio’s most renowned talents brought each character to life.
Inspired by unforgettable Disney story moments, guests can also discover charming photo booths and sculptures of favorite characters in the store, including Disney Princess heroines Queen Elsa, Winnie the Pooh, Spider-Man, Darth Vader and, of course, Mickey Mouse and Friends.
“Disney Store by SM is more than just a place to shop. We aspire to become a welcoming retail destination where guests look forward to creating memories with their loved ones,” said ITWI president Rose Marie Dylim. “So let your imagine soar and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.”
Aside from toys and collectibles, there are also fashion — and even homeware — items, many of which will make amazing Christmas gifts.
As Dylim puts it: “Whether you’re searching for Mickey ears headband, Disney Princess costumes or the perfect superhero gear, we have it all for you!”