Disney Baby debuts with a military baby shower

Dozens of expectant mothers and families gathered Wednesday at the Americana at Brand to celebrate the opening of the first-ever Disney Baby store.

A cast of popular characters from the famed Burbank studio joined actress and television host Alison Sweeney and Disney Consumer Products President Bob Chapek to unveil the new store.

“Disney is all about life’s magical moments,” Chapek said, “and maybe there’s no more greater magical moment than the birth of a child.”

The company teamed up with Operation Shower, a nonprofit organization that supports military families with members who are deployed, to throw a baby shower for military moms-to-be, complete with games, prizes and live music. Each of the expectant moms received a $250 Disney Baby gift card and became the store’s first shoppers.

A variety of home products, toys, clothing, bedding and feeding products are sold in the store, all designed for newborns to 2-year-olds.

Chapman said the company’s rich history in Glendale and proximity to Disney Consumer Products and Disney Store headquarters made the city an ideal location for the brand’s flagship store, said manager Kim Chapman.

Disney Baby opens to the public at 10 a.m. Saturday. The grand-opening celebration will include a meet-and-greet with Disney characters, such as Winnie the Pooh and Tigger, as well as prizes for the first 500 shoppers.

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