“Wow!” was my daughter’s reaction, as we entered the Dolby ballroom for the premiere of Disney’s Nutcracker & the Four Realms. The room was transformed with lights. It was like stepping into the moonlight under a canopy of twinkling stars.
What a joyful celebration to begin the holiday season! The newest adaptation of the beloved classic The Nutcracker features Mackenzie Foy as the lead protagonist Clara. When we meet Clara she is a rebellious princess mourning the recent loss of her mother. Upon receiving a mysterious, locked present, she begins a journey to the Four Realms to find the hidden key. As the adventure unfolds, Clara learns more about her mother and discovers her own internal strengths.
My daughter and I love spending time together, and I strive to find ways for us to create memorable moments as she gets older. This movie premiere inspired me with new ways to create even more mom & daughter bonding time. Some ideas to consider with your daughter:
Pamper yourselves with a mani/pedi. The awesome OPI line of nail polishes has a special series of colors inspired by the Nutcracker. Stop by a local favorite nail shop, or pick up a bottle for your own home spa treatment.
Funky Hair gave us a splash of temporary color and a beautiful hairstyle for the event. Book an appointment at your favorite salon, or try to create updos for each other using a YouTube tutorial before a night at the movies, or the theater.
Treat yourself to a sweet dessert. My daughter loved the amazingly, colorful and sweet candy bar buffet at the event. But we also love our occasional cupcake or sundae dates. Lately, we have been staying home, and getting our bake on!
Fashion! The premiere event showcased some of the breathtaking movie costumes. One of my favorite childhood memories is of shopping with my mom. Plan a day out at the mall, and have a fashion show in the dressing room. My daughter loves trying on dresses, and recreating her best catwalk poses.
Start a tradition. Every year, we buy a new Christmas ornament. I usually let my daughter select it. My mother started this tradition, and our extensive collection decorates our tree every year. Nutcrackers were another Christmas tradition for my mother, so I get to remember her love of the holidays as I decorate my home every December.
Get crafty! Ziplock had a cool craft set up at the event. We made snow globes, which are totally easy to make at home. Art dates can be an amazingly relaxing way to talk about everything or nothing with a tween.
At the end of the day, spending time together is the most important part. Whether it’s dancing in your living room, indulging in delicious pastries or taking a hike in the woods, it’s all about getting to celebrate each other and your unique bond for many years to come.
Nutcracker and the Four Realms is rated PG and is in theaters Friday, Dec. 2.
