When I was young I would often dream of what my wedding day would be like. I’d wear a long satin gown with a veil that trailed behind. And after sharing those life-altering words with my Prince Charming, we’d be whisked away by a horse-drawn carriage to live happily ever after. Yes, I agree –it sounds like a childhood pipe dream. But for some adults, these fairy-tale-style nuptials come true, especially when they’re tying the knot at the happiest place on earth!

Matrimony melds with magic on a regular basis at Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. In fact over 1,500 lovebirds flock to this vacation kingdom each year to vow their ‘I Dos’. Whether it’s a Cinderella, Aladdin, or Beauty and the Beast theme, their storybook setting is guaranteed to leave lasting memories.

One of the hottest spots for sharing bonded bliss is Disneyworld’s non-denominational Wedding Pavilion. Although the virgin white sanctuary boasts chapel-like spires, it presents more like a Victorian summer house than a place of worship. And like a mirage, it seems to float on water from its exclusive island locale on the Seven Seas Lagoon. But it’s certainly no optical illusion. The stately sanctum is as real as the love that’s shared within.

"The pavilion gives couples an elegant setting with the romance of Cinderella Castle visible in the distance," George Aguel, Vice President of resort sales, reports in a recent news release.

And elegant it is! Light filters in through walls of windows to the opulent interiors, where the matrimonial pledging prevails. Here, floral arrangements erupt in fragrant sprays from the ends of each pew and beautify the aisle for the blushing bride. If the special occasion is planned after dark, flickering candles ignite this footpath that leads to paired paradise. Whatever time of day, the special ceremony is enhanced by that whimsical backdrop of Cinderella’s castle, strategically framed by both the alter window and an outdoor hedge archway.

Meandering trails embrace this enclave, and weave beneath the fronds of stately palms. They skirt manicured gardens and lead over a quaint pedestrian bridge. It’s a storybook setting that’s befitting for any make believe princess. To top off this quintessential fairy tale service, the matrimonial pair may even choose to depart via pony-drawn Cinderella glass coach.

There are a number of Disney wedding options, all of which are showcased at Franck's, a stylish salon, mirrored after the studio in Touchstone’s popular flick, Father of the Bride. Here, you’ll find skilled planners who custom-design each event and meet every whimsical desire. From music and entertainment to fresh floral arrangements and delectable deserts, (even those served from a white chocolate glass slipper) these fairy godmother-like professionals will ensure that all wedding wishes come true.

Speaking of fairy godmothers –why not invite one to attend the post nuptial gala at the Disney Grand Floridian Resort & Spa? Even though she’ll just schmooze and mingle with your guests and won’t do any work, (why would she?...she’s a fairy Godmother) her presence will authenticate your fantasy setting.

Although this chapel of love and reception haunt lures a lot of the matrimonial partners, it’s not the only proclaiming place in town. Here are a few other offerings at that this magical kingdom:

Disney's BoardWalk, Sea Breeze Point This locale possesses the charm of a Mid-Atlantic boardwalk scene, circa 1940s Americana, with its quaint wedding gazebo that hugs up tranquil shores of Crescent Lake.

Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts, Wedding Gazebo – You’ll drift back to the turn-of-the-century, at this classically-styled New England seaside resort. Flourishing rose gardens encircle the wedding gazebo where you’ll pledge your lifelong promise. 

Disney's Polynesian Resort, Sunset Pointe – This picture perfect grassy knoll, that overlooks the Seven Seas Lagoon, is embraced by swaying Palms and backed by the Cinderella Castle.

Disney's Wilderness Lodge, Sunrise Terrace - Cascading waterfalls and towering pines heighten the romance of this setting that overlooks gardens and the sparkling waters of Bay Lake.

The Escape Wedding Collection weddings for two, begin at the price of $2,950. This includes an on-site coordinator, bouquet for the bride and boutonniere for the groom, a violinist for ceremony and cake-cutting, an elegant two-tier wedding cake and champagne toast, and a four-hour limousine charter for transportation to and from the wedding ceremony and the reception from a Walt Disney World hotel. Escape Wedding Collection weddings require a minimum of four nights at a Walt Disney World owned-and-operated hotel.

These celebratory occasions are certainly not just exclusive to first time ring wearers. With Disney’s vow renewal program, those who have walked the aisle before can also reclaim their commitment.

"We are delighted that so many of our guests choose Walt Disney World as the venue to reaffirm their love,” Aguel states. “They can create unforgettable and magical memories through this vow renewal program."

Whether it’s an intimate two-some escape or an elaborate family affair, thanks to the onsite wedding coordinator, success of this affirming event will be assured. Escape Wedding Collection vow renewals at Disney's Wedding Pavilion start at $3,900 per couple.

After all is said and done and the grand reception ball is over, the commemorating couple will continue to discover sublime bliss in a variety of honeymooning ways. With the 40-square-miles of Walt Disney World at their fingertips, they’ll likely make their own fairy tale dreams come true. Fun-filled memories will be discovered at all four Disney World theme parks, whether it is Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot or Disney-MGM Studios. Here are some alluring paired pastimes.

Lace up your sneakers and get walking – This may not sound like the most romantic activity, but when you combine a bit of hand holding with a stroll in this magical kingdom, all kinds of wonderful things unfold! From meandering down Main Street, U.S.A., exploring Epcot’s World Showcase, or checking out Disney-MGM Studios, to taking the plunge down The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, or the Animal Kingdom’s high-speed train ride to Mount Everest – you’ll want to cling to the love of your life. Then head over to that infamous Disney icon –the Cinderella Castle when the day’s nearly done, to see it glow in front of the backdrop of the setting sun.

Tiger, Tennis, Treatments? Although you may not play in the same league as Tiger Woods, you can always try out the same greens. Five championship golf courses embrace these paradise playgrounds. If golf isn’t your thing, maybe tennis is. There are a number of options where you can rally with your love. After either game, soothe your muscles with a massage. While lying side by side you’ll surely experience the meaning of bilateral bliss!

Saddle up with Nature – Giddy up and go through the backwoods and trails that lace the outskirts of Walt Disney World. Experienced wranglers at Fort Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort will lead riders through pine-scented woods that make up part of the Vacation Kingdom's 30,000 plus acres. Tours leave several times daily from Trail Blaze Corral, and may be reserved by calling 407/WDW-PLAY (939-7529)

Horses that are romance-driven - Instead of straddling the saddle, enjoy this mode of transport that offers a carriage view of the scenery. Snuggle arm in arm, while you ride through the 700 rustic acres of rural Walt Disney World or try the old-fashioned route that takes you through Disney's Port Orleans.  All 30 minute excursions are $35, available nightly from 6-9:30 p.m. For reservations, call 407/WDW-PLAY (939-7529).

Into the wee hours – Life and living extends into the after hours for all of those night hawks. Whether your thing is doing the jitterbug at one of the night clubs, or checking out a theatre, there are lots in store at Downtown Disney. Newlyweds can also check out the Interactive DisneyQuest with its offering of high-tech adventure, or Cirque du Soleil production, La Nouba, a combo of theatrics, acrobatics, live music and breathtaking stunts.

Smooth Sailing –While gliding over the Seven Seas Lagoon in the Grand 1, you’ll ooh and ahh at the display of fireworks that light up the skies above the magic kingdom. Butler-served gourmet cuisine is optional. Other cruising options with various prices are also available. Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance by calling 407/824-2682.

Castaway Romance - The happiest place of earth also goes aquatic, when Disney Cruise Line steps up to the plate. As well as 3 or 4 day voyages to Nassau and Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, there’s also the seven night Caribbean cruise option through the islands of St. Maarten, St. Thomas, St. John and Castaway Cay. All the perks are offered on board –everything from a plethora of activities and entertainment, to gastronomical dining.

There’s everything at Disney World that a Cinderella and her Prince Charming could wish for. Fairy tale wedding services, whimsical receptions, honeymoon havens, and of course, lots of their own evening fireworks!

For more information on Disney's Fairy Tale Weddings, call 321/939-4623, or visit www.disneyweddings.com.