10/22/2026
Being a small business owner has changed the way I shop.โ
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As a travel advisor, I know how much it means when someone chooses to support my business. Every booking, referral, recommendation and kind word helps me keep doing something I love, and Iโm genuinely thankful for the people who choose to work with me.โ
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Because of that, I love finding opportunities to support other small businesses, too. When Iโm shopping for my next theme park trip, Iโm always happy to discover a small shop offering something a little different from what Iโll find everywhere else.โ
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From unique park apparel to accessories I wear on every trip, some of my favorite Disney finds have come from small businesses. 1953 Designs is one of those brands, and my Knotbands have become a regular part of my theme park wardrobe.โ
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I love getting to share the small shops I enjoy with other Disney fans, so Iโve included a few of my favorites in this post!โ
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Iโm so grateful for everyone who supports my small business, and I love getting to pay some of that support forward.โ
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Running my own travel-advisor business has given me a whole new appreciation for everyone who chooses to support a small business. Every booking, referral, recommendation and kind word means more than people probably realize!
Whether itโs a purchase, sharing someoneโs work or recommending a business I love, I know firsthand how much those little things can mean.
And when Iโm shopping for my next souvenir or vacation outfit, Iโm always happy to see what small businesses have to offer.
While I am also the first to admit that I love Disney merch, thereโs something extra fun about finding a shirt, accessory or bag that feels a little more unique to me.
Because as much as I love the Lion King, I donโt necessarily need to wear the same shirt as every dad walking around Animal Kingdom. ๐
From park accessories to unique shirts and personalized items, there are so many creative small shops making things for other fans.
One of my favorite small-business finds: Mallorie Wright Knotbands! Theyโre a regular part of my theme park outfits because theyโre