Here are some of my recommendations to companies seeking to engage with bloggers outside of the digital space:

1. Do your homework.

From the time of year (and day) to the list of invitees, it’s important for PR representatives to research all aspects of the event.

2.  Location, Location!

If you are planning a local event (and targeting bloggers in that area), pick a venue that is easily accessible (also taking into consideration the time of day the event is scheduled for).  The venue should be something representative of your brand and the message you want to communicate.  Releasing a new movie?  Hold the event at the studio lot if appropriate.  Also consider non-traditional venues such as skate parks, gardens, coffee houses, and event spaces.

Many events that are longer in duration are often held at the company’s headquarters.  Consider accommodating invitees in a nearby town that has significance.  For example, I recently attended an event where the attendees were accommodated in historic Gettysburg.  I don’t know that I’d ever have visited the town on my own, but the small taste I got had me yearning to go back someday with my family.

3.  Who to invite.

In my opinion, this is the most important aspect of planning a successful event.  The guest list will likely be very different for local versus national brand events.  However, the research that goes into selecting the most fitting bloggers is very similar.  Who is already talking about your brand and what are they saying?  Who do you already have a relationship with (either in relation to this brand or another brand)?  What is the demographic of the blogger’s audience?  How influential is the blogger, taking into consideration both his/her online and offline relationships?  What is the blogger’s track record and where has he/she been successful? Just because the same bloggers are being invited to event after event, doesn’t mean they are the right fit for your brand.  While it may appear that the bloggers being invited time after time are the most influential in this space, you may be missing a key influencer.

Another point to consider is whether or not to invite a blogger’s family.  The invite should be very clear, since most bloggers are moms with children.  I would be more inclined to attend an event (either locally or in another part of the country) that either involved my children, or included babysitting (yes…I’ve attended several events where babysitting was provided).  If the event will include children, be sure to arrange for special activities to keep them occupied while the bloggers learn about and engage with the brand.

4.  Timing is everything.

Be sure to give bloggers enough time to plan for the event.  Last minute invites, hastily put together, will not yield the desired results.  Four to six weeks is enough time for a blogger to plan for an event.

If you have a new product or service that is scheduled to be released, be sure to plan your event one to two weeks prior to the release date.

When planning an event, take note of large-scale events held during that time.  For example,  a company wouldn’t want to schedule an event during the time of a major conference (but I’ve seen it done).

5.  The big event!

Engage bloggers.

Offer them a unique, interactive way to experience your product.  Some of my most memorable blog events involved cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, mini day spa treatments, and an entire show dedicated to revealing a brand new way to game.

Offer interview opportunities with experts if appropriate.

Provide the right balance between information and socialization.

Equip your invitees with the information they need to write about their experience.  Obtain special permission for bloggers to photograph since this is an important part of a blogger’s story.

If you have invited bloggers from out of town, offer down time and the opportunity to experience the city’s sights.

6.  Feed them well.

Take careful consideration of the timing of point #4 when arranging for food.  If you’re inviting bloggers to an event during the 11-2 or 4-7 hours, be clear about whether or not a meal will be provided.  This becomes critical when the invite includes a blogger’s family.

Ask the blogger about food allergies.  I can count on one hand the number of times I was asked this question in the last year.  This is particularly important when children are invited.

7.  The Stuff. We. All. Get. (aka Swag!)

I’d rather come away with a memorable experience, than a bag of stuff I can’t or won’t use.  My favorite noteworthy swag includes a company branded FlipCam, a company branded robe, a cookbook, Disneyland tickets, and decorating supplies.  Swag I can live without?  Mugs, branded t-shirts (for the most part), mouse pads (because who uses a mouse anymore?), and anything deemed a trinket.  In lieu of swag, offer to work with the blogger on a product review or raffle higher-priced items.

8.  Follow Up.

The goal of a blogger event should be to initiate a conversation about the brand.  Be sure to follow up with the blogger within a week’s time.  Offer to provide additional information (press releases, photos, etc.) if required.  Obtain feedback about the event via survey.

What blogger brand events have you attended recently? Which ones stand out as being the most memorable to you?  What tips would you add for creating a stellar blogger event?

Wilton MomRetreat, October 2010

Absolutely no compensation was received for this post…you figured but I had to say it!

When I got pregnant with my son, we decided to sell one of the SUVs to obtain a “family-friendly” car.  The sedan we now own is suitable for the four of us, although it would be nice to have more room when we take road trips.  And should we ever consider expanding our family, we’d be forced to sell both vehicles because neither would accommodate a larger family.  As it is, we’ll be replacing our sole SUV in less than a year and will opt for a family-friendly vehicle with better fuel economy.

Today, Honda revealed it’s newly redesigned 2011 Odyssey.  I, along with a group of bloggers, had an opportunity to learn about and drive the new Odyssey in La Jolla a couple of weeks ago.  And…this isn’t your mother’s minivan.

The minivan image has not always been favorable.  Up until the time we started thinking about expanding our family, we really hadn’t thought much about purchasing a minivan, despite the fact that most of our friends drive one. My husband and I felt mostly felt like we didn’t need that amount of room in a car.  And if it’s fuel economy was anything like our SUV, we wanted to steer clear. Personally, I was afraid that it would be too difficult and cumbersome to drive a minivan.

The Honda Odyssey challenges many of my preconceived ideas about minivans. With a sleek new look and enhanced luxury features, those on the fence (“hesitators” like myself) may be swayed towards the new Odyssey.

First off, the 2011 Honda Odyssey is practical.  At present, our sedan can accommodate 2 adults in the front seat and 2 children in car seats in the back seat.  For all practical purposes, the middle seat is useless.  And once we get the double stroller in the trunk, there is literally no space left for additional items.  Au contraire, the Honda Odyssey is the “ultimate family vehicle” and can accommodate an eight passenger family with a variety of seating arrangements.  This is the kind of vehicle I want on a road trip.  With superior leg room, enhanced entertainment features, and flexible cargo space, road trips just became that much more enjoyable…even with kids who are asking “Are we there yet?” every five minutes.

The Honda Odyssey has an outstanding safety profile.  Every vehicle purchase I’ve completed began with a look at the company and vehicle’s safety profile.  Now that I have two children, safety is even more important.  Honda’s commitment to safety includes vehicle control features that make it less likely you’ll fishtail, roll over, or skid should you lose control,  innovations in body structure (i.e. high strength steel) to protect you should you be involved in a crash, and state-of-the art safety features within the vehicle such as active head restraints and seat sensors.  The Honda Odyssey achieved a five star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and is a top safety pick according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The Honda Odyssey features cutting-edge technology.  I am a Southern California native, yet I never drive without my GPS.  Naturally, my favorite technological feature is the navigation system.  Featuring voice activation and real-time FM traffic (a must for anyone living in Los Angeles or any other urban city),  the system is smart and intuitive while keeping you focused on what’s important…the road!  I will say that the entire Interface would require that I take some time learning it.  There are a ton (and I mean a TON) of features (especially on the Touring model) that I’d want to play with before attempting to do so while driving.  My second favorite feature?  The Multi-view Rear Camera.  I don’t like backing up or parallel parking in our SUV.  Doing so in a mini-van is even more intimidating…unless it’s equipped with this camera.  The camera features a normal view, a wide view, a top view, and a parking sensor system (so you don’t back into a pole…something a certain Bailey did not too long ago).

The Honda Odyssey is efficient.  It’s not uncommon for us to fill up our SUV twice a week.  At almost $3 a gallon, fuel is a major expense.  According to the EPA, the Touring Elite is the best-in-class for fuel economy, achieving 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway.  That’s only 1 less than what I get with my 2004 sedan.

The Honda Odyssey is performance-driven.  While power, torque, and acceleration aren’t as important to me, they are very important to my husband (and most men, in general).  I can’t honestly say that I understand much about the above three subjects.  What I will say is that the Honda Odyssey has more power, more torque, and more acceleration.

Who says a minivan can’t be fun to drive?

Honda pays attention to detail.  Some of the features you won’t find on other minivans include a lower, wider design, a multi-function center seat, a flexible second row that can accommodate up to 3 car seats, a “cool box” cold storage compartment, an ultra-wide rear entertainment system with dual screen display, and third row auxiliary inputs (I can charge my phone or my laptop while I’m driving).

In summary, here are the key features of the 2011 Honda Odyssey (from the company):

Design

Lightning-bolt beltline enhances passenger visibility for third-row occupants and distinguishes the vehicle’s profile

Lower and wider stance creates a more dynamic presence

Sleek profile improves aerodynamics and increases fuel economy

Premium, high-intensity discharge headlights

18-inch alloy wheels

Functionality

Wider design is more intuitive, more functional, and more comfortable

“Wide Mode” seating enables three child seats in 2nd row with seat anchors

Added comfort slide feature enables second-row center car seats to move six inches closer to driver

One-strap stowable 3rd Row Magic Seat

Removable 1st row center console with hidden storage

Media tray with integrated beverage and purse holder

New cool box in lower center stack to keep drinks and snacks cool

Leather-trimmed seating with heated front seats

Second and third-row passenger window sunshades

15 beverage holders

Trash bag ring

More hidden, secure storage

Improved interior ambient lighting

Safety

LATCH child seat anchors in five seating positions

Three LATCH positions in the second row to accommodate three child seats simultaneously

Blind spot indicator

Rear view camera

Seat weight sensors

Targeting Five Star under new NHTSA tests

Targeting IIHS Top Safety Pick

Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control

4-wheel disc ABS, Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist

Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure

3-row side curtain airbag with rollover sensor

Technology

16.2 inch ultra-wide, dual-input Rear Entertainment System with split-screen capability

650 Watt Premium Audio System with 12 speakers

15 GB hard disk drive audio with song by voice feature

External High Definition Multimedia Interface input

150-Watt AC power outlet

Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Activation

Memory linked 10-way power driver’s seat

Front and rear body-colored parking sensors

Honda has aspired to offer the ultimate family vehicle in it’s 2011 Odyssey.  The vehicle will go on sale September 30, 2010. Prices are as follows:
Odyssey LX $27,800
Odyssey EX $30,950
Odyssey EX-L $34,450
Odyssey EX-L Rear Entertainment $36,050
Odyssey EX-L Navi $36,450
Odyssey Touring $40,755
Odyssey Touring Elite $43,250

*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $780 destination charge and
options.

No compensation was received for this post.  A very special thank you to Honda for providing accommodations and meals.

This is part of a compensated campaign with 77kids and The Motherhood.

A couple of weeks ago, I had the privilege of joining some of the most renowned LA and OC Fashion and Beauty Bloggers for a tour de plaza (South Coast, that is).  I have frequented this mall numerous times, but never quite this way.

The mall is unlike any other mall I’ve frequented (and I’ve been to malls all over the world).  The mall is actually a tourist destination and draws crowds from all over the world.  With over 250 boutiques, award-winning restaurants, , and spas, South Coast Plaza is internationally recognized as a premier shopping destination.  Where else will you find Oscal de la Renta, Tiffany & Co., and Diesel all under one roof?

Upon arrival, we were greeted with a light lunch and red velvet cupcakes made by Cat Cora in their VIP Access Suite.  VIP members receive free valet parking and free membership into the suite, which provides guests with a place to relax, store packages, and enjoy refreshments.  The suite features a Sports Lounge and a Zen room and is staffed by a Concierge who will provide complimentary refreshments/snacks, and attend to personal requests for restaurant and theater reservations.

After spending some time learning more about what’s new at the plaza, we headed over to our first stop…Tumi Boutique.  I’m passionate about travel and have visited nearly 20 countries across the globe.  Children have placed a minor stint in our global travel, but we still manage to take several U.S. vacations every year.

Tumi, “the leading brand of luxury travel, business, and lifestyle accessories,” offered several tips on packing like a “jet-setting pro.”  I always try to pack way too much with too little space and end up getting bogged down with luggage.  They sent us home with their Just In Case Tote, which will come in handy at BlogHer this year.  This lightweight, foldable tote comes in it’s own zip pouch and can be packed and used to bring home swag souvenirs or other items picked up along the way.  Additionally, they offer a variety of accessories like Packing Cubes and and Flat Folding Packs that help maximize space and keep things organized.

Now that we know how to pack, it’s time to figure out what to pack. If you’re a hip, New York woman, you shop at Henri Bendel.  This “girls’ playground” features chic, fashion-forward accessories, cosmetics, and gifts.  I could have easily taken home one of each!  But a few of their travel products stood out as must-haves.  Their Mini Flat Iron & Travel Pouch can be carried on or packed in your suitcase and comes in a heat-resistant pouch with a magnetic closure (brilliant!).  Their Tweezerman Set includes both fine point and slant tip tweezers in a suede and leather pouch.  This SoCal girl (that never wears socks) adores their Rivet Print Flip Flops.  They come in five fun colors and can be worn for beach days, summer nights out, or at the airport.  And speaking of beach days, I like their Disturbed Stripe Beach Towels.  Not only are they super-soft (I felt one!), they look fabulous.  They’re also huge!

While it still doesn’t feel like summer (what’s up with June gloom in July?), soon the heat will be upon us and I’ll be breaking out the tank tops and sundresses.  While I’m still in nursing bras, soon I hope to return back to a time where I could adapt my bra to my outfit (instead of the other way around).  If you’re one of the 85% of women who are wearing the wrong size bra, you must check out Intimacy (which just opened at South Coast Plaza in May).  Not only will they help you find a bra that really fits (they have over 90 bra sizes), they’ll identify bras that match your body type, wardrobe and style.

So once you’ve packed for the occasion, it’s time to ensure that you look good.  Our next stop was at Spa Nordstrom for a bronzing session.  With olive-colored skin, I thought it best to sit this one down. I did manage to capture Elizabeth getting her glow-on.  For $55, you can have a healthy glowing tan without sun or UV exposure.  It’s airbrushed on, takes seconds, and actually looks quite natural.

Before we ate the most incredible meal at one of the most impressive restaurants I’ve ever frequented, I browsed a few of their new stores.  Molton Brown, which originated in London, sells plant-based make-up, hair, body, skin and grooming products.  Their bath and body products smell incredible (without being too strong) and leave my skin feeling fresh and vibrant.  With over 100 tea varieties, Teavana tops my list of favorite tea venues.  And while I was there, I had to get my Williams-Sonoma fix. Their South Coast locations is one of the biggest in the LA/OC area.  Although I didn’t get an opportunity to visit, Free People (sister to Urban Outfitters) is now open.  The store is known for fresh, feminine fashion with vintage appeal.

Our day concluded with dinner at AnQi by Crustacean and a fashion show created with La Perla, specifically for the event.  This gourmet bistro and noodle bar features artfully presented Asian fusion cuisine.  They created a special menu for us, and I was very impressed with the taste and presentation of the food.

This summer, South Coast Plaza is offering two specials you may be interested in checking out:

1. Pack Your Bags Shopping Package (Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel):  Includes one-night accommodation with welcome amenity, Hotel Valet, $100 South Coast Plaza Gift Certificate, Complimentary Valet Parking, one-hour personal shopper/image consultant, ACCESS VIP Suite, and VIP Savings Passport (rates start at $525).

2.  Shopping Spree Special (Montage Laguna Beach):  Includes two-night, ocean-view accommodations, daily breakfast, VIP shopping excursion, VIP savings passport and passes to ACCESS VIP Suite (rates start at $545).

No compensation was received for this post.  I was invited to a media event and given a gift bag at the event.

A few weeks ago, I attended the resorts media briefing and got a glimpse of what’s to come.

World of Color is drawing audiences from all over the world (I actually spoke to a girl from Australia on holiday one of the days we were visiting) with it’s powerful fountains, larger-than-life projections, lasers, fire, music, and special effects. (Year-round)

The Disneyland resort’s summer line-up includes Fantasmic! with its new dragon, Magical fireworks starring Tinker Bell and Dumbo (we’ve seen this every night for the past month), Tomorrowland Terrace TLT Dance Club, and Pixie Hollow Enchantment.  (Now through August 29, 2010)  In the fall, Rapunzel (who will star in the upcoming animated feature Tangled) will greet guests in Fantasyland.

Disney California Adventure Park is all aglow with the colorful, exciting entertainment of Glow Fest.  (Now through August 22, 2010).

Looking ahead, Disney Cruise Line will move to Southern California (yes…I’m jumping up and down).  The Disney Wonder will make regular sailings to Alaska from Vancouver and to the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles.  The most exciting news is that kids (under the age of 17) are free from January 23 to March 20, 2011 on seven-night cruises to the Mexican Riviera (must be accompanied by two full-fare paying guests).

2011 will also bring The Little Mermaid to Disney California Adventure Park with it’s immersive, under the sea experience called Ariel’s Undersea Adventure.  And in 2012, Cars Land makes it’s debut.  I saw the model for this at D23 and I can’t even imagine how incredible it’s going to be.  The 12-acre expansion will include 3 new attractions.

I like to stay up-to-date with what’s happening with the park, so I’ll post updates as they come.

Just a glimpse at what a media briefing is like at the Disneyland Resort.

Photo Credit: Copyright Disney. Used with permission. No unauthorized use.

No compensation was received for this post.

At the event, Gerber served up a variety of light bites, utilizing their products.  I never would have guessed the recipes featured Gerber baby food because the foods were yummy!  Here are a few Gerber-inspired recipes that would make great appetizers for summer parties and picnics:

Veggie Harvest Hummus

Makes: 3 cups

Ingredients:

2 cans (15 ounces or 4 cups) garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed

One 2-pack of Gerber SmartNourish 2nd Foods Organic Famer’s Market Blend With Mixed Grains

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tsp. minced garlic

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

Fresh chopped parsley (garnish)

Directions: Place garbanzo beans, baby food, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and red pepper into blender or food processor and blend for 1 minute until smooth.  For greater texture, reduce blending time by half.

Garnish with parsley.

Serve with raw vegetables, pita triangles and crackers.

“Just Peachy” Ice Cream

Makes:  8 1/2 cup servings

Ingredients:

Four 2 packs of Gerber NatureSelect 2nd Foods Peaches

1/2 cup heavy Whipping Cream

1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

Directions:  Combine cream, sugar, and two containers of peaches in a small sauce pan.  Heat on low until sugar just dissolves (do not boil).  Chill.  Add remainder of peaches to cream mixture.  Pour into ice cream machine.  Freeze until creamy.  Transfer to a plastic container and freeze until hard.

Squash & Carrot Bisque

Makes: 10 4 ounce portions

Ingredients:

3-4 TBSP olive oil

1 medium size finely chopped onion

1/8 tsp. nutmeg

1/8 tsp. red cayenne pepper

1/8 tsp. ginger

1 tsp. Knorr chicken powder seasoning

1 tsp. salt

10 tsp. sour cream (if desired for garnish)

Three 2 packs of Gerber NatureSelect 2nd Foods Squash

One 2 pack of Gerber NatureSelect 2nd Foods Carrots

Real Parmesan cheese shredded to sprinkle on top

Directions:  Heat olive oil over medium heat and saute onion. Turn down to low heat and add the purees.  Mix.  At this point, it is suggested to use a whisk as a blending tool.  Add the spices and salt. Whisk well.  Turn to medium heat and continue mixing.  Take the pot with sauce off the heat.  Add one TBSP of sour cream and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tropical Medley Fruit Dip

Makes:  2 cups

Ingredients:

1 8 ounce pkg. Neufchatel cheese, softened

One 2 pack of Gerber NatureSelect 2nd Foods Banana Orange Medley

1 TBSP honey

1 tsp. grated orange peel

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:  Place cream cheese, baby food, honey, orange peel, and vanilla in medium bowl.  Beat for 1 minute or until smooth.  Serve with fresh fruit slices at room temperature.

In other news, Gerber is currently conducting a Photo Search.  Gerber Generation judges are looking for photos of children from birth to preschool that demonstrate expression, charm, and uniqueness.  The child who’s photo best meets the above criteria will receive the grand prize of a $25,000 scholarship and have an opportunity to star in a Gerber advertisement.

To enter, simply visit Gerber and upload a picture of your child under the appropriate Start Healthy, Stay Healthy Milestone Symbol.  Approximately one month after submission and approval, parents can ask friends, family members etc. to vote for their child’s picture in the Gerber Generation gallery.  There will also be opportunities to win monthly prizes including a Flip Slide HD video camera and a featured spot on the Gerber site.  Parents can enter a different photo each month through November 30, 2010.  Voting is open until December 31, 2010 and the grand prize winner will be announced around January 10, 2011.

No compensation was received for this post.

A few months ago, I had the opportunity to stay at the InterContinental Montelucia Resort & Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona.  This was actually my second experience staying at an InterContinental Resort, as we spent several nights of our honeymoon at their resort in Moorea.  Their Scottsdale resort is “inspired by the rich history, white-washed villages and sun-drenched hills of Spain’s Andalusia region and is reminiscent of a charming European town square with arching entryways, splashing fountains and floral walkways.”  The beauty of the resort coupled with the picturesque Camelback Mountain makes for a serene visit.  The resort is centrally located and I only wish I had a few more days to enjoy Scottsdale.

Before I had children, I would regularly go to the spa for a facial or a massage.  While I still enjoy pampering, it’s not as easy with two little ones.  The Montelucia has an amazingly spacious Moroccan-inspired spa which features 19 treatment rooms, a lavish lounge, a private rooftop pool terrace, and a top-of-the-line fitness center.  The Joya Spa is quiet and peaceful and I enjoyed lounging on their “beds.”  I have no idea what type of massage I had, but I do know that I was beyond relaxed (I fell asleep).   I’d go back just for that massage!  At present, they are offering a summer spa menu.   If you do visit the Joya Spa, be sure to lounge in their exclusive Hammam warming room which features iridescent heated seats and rose water mist.

From evening turn-down service to incredibly attentive room service, the resort scores 5 stars for hospitality as far as I’m concerned.  While I wouldn’t immediately think to bring my children to the Montelucia, the resort actually welcomes families.  Their Planet Trekkers Kids Club (designed for children ages 5-12) is an interactive day camp with indoor and outdoor activities including treasure hunts, Wild West-style balloon show-downs, and Saturday night pajama parties.  Each day is different and the price varies, depending on how long the child stays.  If you decide to eat at Prado (a restaurant on the property) or receive a treatment at the Joya Spa, children can enjoy complimentary hours in the Planet Trekkers Kids Club.  Parents should also take note that children under 10 eat free anywhere on the property…yet another reason to reconsider leaving the kids at home.

Now through September 6, 2010, the Montelucia is offering several Summer Stay Packages which will help you make the most of your time (and resources) at the resort.

No compensation was received for this post. Bosch sponsored my trip which included flight, hotel, and meals.

Two weeks ago, I was among the first to shop with Wilton employees, and scored some fabulous deals on everything from the Cars cake pan I’m going to use for my son’s upcoming birthday party, to a set of replacement knives for those that have dulled from years of use.

I found a wide variety of baking, decorating, kitchen, and crafting supplies at incredible prices.  Items were well-organized and I found that each item was stocked sufficiently (although I did attend prior to opening day).  For $150, I was able to purchase the above plus a cast iron pizza pan, a set of Mario Batali bowls, some kitchen gadgets, a Copco Tea Kettle, and some miscellaneous decorating supplies.  Most of the items for sale were current, which is important to me, considering I am planning on using their latest year book as my decorating guide.

While the event is held in Woodridge, Illinois, many people will and do travel from all over the country (I heard stories of tour buses stopping at the sale).  If you happen to be in the Chicago area through June 22, 2010, check out the Wilton Tent Sale.
HOURS:
Weekdays: 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Weekends: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Located At:
2240 W. 75th Street
Woodridge, IL 60517

No compensation was received for this post.  I was invited to the Wilton Mom ReTreat which included travel, accommodations, and products.

Gleaning inspiration from it’s neighbor (Build-A-Bear), RIDEMAKERZ offers children a unique, immersive experience…and the result is very much like the real thing.  Adults and children, boys and girls, will enjoy the process of customizing their ride.  After choozing from one of 70 models which include a Corvette, an F-250, and a MINI Cooper S, it’s time to get creative.  Street or Monster? Free-Wheel or Radio-Control? Everything from the wheelz and treadz to the lights and spoilers can be customized.

“Building” your unique car is actually quite simple and takes not time, given the electric tools stationed in the RZ Pit.  Once your ride is to your satisfaction, take it home in a RZ CRUIZECASE.

If you don’t happen to live in one of the six cities that houses a RIDEMAKERZ store, parents and children can participate in their online experience.

RIDEZ are priced from $10 to $32 depending on the body and paint scheme desired.  If you’d like a Radio-Control car, there is an additional $25 tagged on to that price.  Individual custom accessories range in price from $2 to $15.

Head on over to RIDEMAKERZ at Downtown Disney this weekend for their buy one, get one free offer on stock cars.

No compensation was received for this post.  I received a gift certificate to create my own RIDEZ, courtesy of the company.