Behind Magic Kingdom is a secret warehouse holding over 50,000 Walt Disney World holiday decorations. This festive hub powers Holiday Services, led by longtime designer and creative mastermind William (Ed) Miles.
Meet the Master of Merriment
With more than four decades of experience, Ed Miles is the Head Designer for Disneyโs Holiday Services. Known for turning ordinary objectsโlike wagon wheels, anchors, or bird cagesโinto extraordinary holiday decorations, Edโs talent for out-of-the-box creativity is legendary.
โAnything can be used for Christmas,โ Ed laughs, standing proudly beside a tree he designed for Disneyโs Fort Wilderness Resort. Adorned with horseshoes, ropes, and other rustic items, itโs a perfect example of how Ed tailors each tree to fit the unique theming of the resort.
From Idea to Installation
Ed and his team shop years in advance for decorations, preparing for as many as 10โ15 locations at a time. After sourcing, they begin crafting: gluing, screwing, and wiring each element to ensure durability during setup and takedown.
The warehouse houses more than 800 Christmas trees in various stages of assembly. Every tree is cataloged, packed, and prepared with corresponding color-coded carts, maps, and visual references to make installation across parks and resorts seamless.
Holiday History and Legacy
Edโs Disney journey started under the guidance of Hank Danes, a friend of Walt Disney and former leader of the Decorating and Furnishings Department. Ed played a role in opening EPCOT, Disneyโs Hollywood Studios, and Disneyโs Animal Kingdom. His return to holiday decor over the last eight years has been a full-circle moment that earned him the prestigious Legacy Award.
Bringing Joy to Every Corner
From pink poodles to oversized trees, Edโs designs blend nostalgia, storytelling, and style across Walt Disney World. Ed and his team create each display with families in mindโintended to be part of treasured holiday memories.
A Team Like No Other
Ed is quick to credit his team, calling them family. He starts each day by walking the warehouse floor, checking in, and offering encouragement. โDonโt be afraid to make a mistake,โ he shares. โThe only people who donโt make mistakes are the ones who donโt try.โ
Thanks to Ed and his team, Disneyโs holiday magic brings heart, history, and joy that lasts for generations.
Next time you pose by a tree, remember Ed and the team behind Disneyโs unforgettable holiday magic.
