For Skyler Gring, Osage Road, the Disney magic was years in the making. Yearly family trips to the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando were a staple of her childhood. Their trips typically occurred during winter holidays to avoid the hot summer months — a strategy she still follows today. She’s visited Disney World upwards of 20 times, Disneyland once, boarded two Disney cruises, the Disney Magic and Disney Wish, and even trekked to Tokyo Disney.

In December, Gring turned Disney passion into a new career. While working with a travel agent to plan a trip for her own family, Gring realized she had enough knowledge and experience under her belt to help others navigate the depths of Disney travel.

The former elementary school teacher and mom of two — Dylan, 4, and Parker, 2 — completed training through Pittsburgh-based company Dreamers Do Travels. Gring doesn’t charge her clients, but Disney does pay the agency commission for their bookings, which could provide Gring with discounts on her own future trips. Certainly, it’s a welcome perk, though Gring admits it’s not her main motivation. She’s more invested in sharing her deep-rooted passion and talent for making memorable vacations with her clients, family and friends.

Some people love, while others loathe the idea of Disney planning. If you are one of those that find the mere thought of planning a Disney trip daunting, Gring offers her top tips for doing Disney right!

“Starting at 18 months, you really are going to start to see your child reacting to the characters, the shows, and noticing what’s going on around them,” Gring said. “Just seeing them experience that magic is really special. It doesn’t hurt that Disney is free for children under 3-years-old,” Gring added.

As children get older, they can take advantage of even more activities and rides.

“If you have younger kids, make your trip longer, because each day you’re going to be there for less time at the park,” Gring said. “If you have older kids, you can press each park into one day and you won’t miss out on anything.”

Another option that’s making waves, is the Disney Cruise. Gring has been on two in recent years, including the Disney Wish.

“There is more downtime and relaxation built into a Disney Cruise. You have a set mealtime that you’re going to go to each night,” Gring said. “There are scheduled character visits, and experiences like Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.”

Disney Cruise Line also offers complimentary kids clubs, giving parents an option for child care.

Gring urges anyone considering Disney to use a planner, because the parks are constantly changing, especially on policies for the Lightening Lane Passes.

Gring encourages her clients to reach out to her at any point during their travels. “I have a virtual map of Disney World in my head,” Gring laughed. “In Magic Kingdom, right along the water, there is a boardwalk and the bumpity bump of the boardwalk just lured my daughter, Parker, to sleep for her nap. Knowing little things like that is so helpful.”

Disney isn’t just for families. Gring has done and highly recommends girls trips — for which, she recommends EPCOT. She’s also taken several trips with her husband, Shane, prior to having children.

The type of trip is important to consider when planning. If you’re taking children, Gring suggests booking a solid six months in advance. This ensures that you get the hotel you want, especially if there is a desire to stay on Disney property.

As for her own Disney top memories, they are constantly changing.

“I cry multiple times seeing the magic of Dylan reacting to the parade, or the first time Parker warmed up to Minnie Mouse at our character dining,” Gring said.

At the end of the day, the key to unlocking a desired Disney vacation is to stay flexible.

“You have to be aware that your schedule is going to be different than it is at home, and you have to be okay with that,” Gring said. “If you embrace that, and accept the Disney magic, I think you will have an amazing time.”