So if you haven’t heard already, the Easter Bunny arrived at the mall this weekend. I wrote this article in hopes to pass along a few tips and tricks for capturing a great picture of your little one with the Easter Bunny.

LET’S START WITH THE OUTFIT

In order to snag an adorable dress or pants suit you have to catch a deal at the right time. Since I have boys, I can definitely make recommendations for when to shop for an Easter suit. I usually go sometime between February and March to get their outfits. This year I was able to snag a great deal at Sears in the mall! I got a 3T pants and vest suit with purple shirt and tie and 5T pants and vest suit with teal shirt and tie sets for under $20…yes that’s two suits for under $20. If you weren’t able to catch the clearance; JC Penny’s and Sears have their children’s spring attire on sale for half off!

AVOID GOING ON A WEEKEND

Saturday and Sunday are normally the most crowded days; try to avoid going on the weekend. Generally a week day during the day is the least crowded. While some malls are just always busy, ours tended to be slowest on Mondays-Wednesdays. If you need to go on a weekend try to go sooner than later in the season; the closer it gets to Easter the more crowded it becomes.

GET SOME ENERGY OUT FIRST

It seemed to help by taking the kids to the play area first to let some energy out. They played for thirty minutes and than we made our way over to see Mr. Cotton Tail.

TAKE A TEST RUN

If at all possible considering doing a test run; take your little one up to see how they react to the bunny before the day you actual get pictures taken. While there make a game of it; ask them questions like what color is the bunny’s fur or how many Easter egg decorations are around the chair. Remind them of how soft and friendly the bunny is. By doing a test run, you will have a better idea of how the event will go on picture day and give your child a chance to familiarize and become more comfortable.

TURNING FROWNS UPSIDE DOWN

Every child is different and each candid moment is a special memory. So don’t feel a huge pressure that they need to smile and be brave. If you sense that your little one is terrified, there’s no sense in torturing them… there’s always next year. Here are a few things you can try if your little one is skittish: don’t under estimate the power of the trial run list above. Consider making it a family photo; it’s always a little less scary if they are sitting on mommy or daddy’s lap. Bring along their favorite toy or stuffed animal for distraction. The staff are super friendly and helpful. I pretty much just stood back and let the photographer work her magic. The photographer gave me instruction on how to help. For an example, she said mom little man has his hands in his mouth. I pulled the finger out, she clapped the toy and the boys smiled…presto!

CARING BUNNY DAY- SENSORY FRIENDLY

On Sunday April 2, 2017 from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM will be a Caring Bunny day. Caring Bunny provides a subdued and welcoming environment for children with special needs and their families. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/caring-bunny-tickets-32054251128

DSC_0900.JPG

EASTER BUNNY ST. CHARLES TOWNE CENTER INFORMATION:

Every spring, the malls lovable Bunny pops up at your favorite Simon mall. When you visit The Bunny, no words are needed. He’s fluent in smiles and hugs! Children can stop by the Easter Bunny set to have their fun moment with Easter Bunny captured forever with keepsake photos. And for a peek into the Bunny’s Magical World, be sure to follow the Bunny’s daily musings at facebook.com/followthebunny and @follow_thebunny on Twitter.

STORE HOURS

Monday to Saturday 10AM–9PM
Sunday 11AM–6PM

LOCATION IN MALL

Center Court

St. Charles Towne Center

11110 Mall Cir

Waldorf, MD 20603