Small Businesses Behind the Magic

The magic of Disneyland Resort comes from those who bring it to life — from cast members to the local businesses the resort supports in Anaheim and Orange County. For decades, the resort has uplifted local businesses across industries, indirectly supporting thousands of jobs in Southern California. From printing to produce and more, these small businesses ensure that the resort is The Happiest Place on Earth for guests every day.

Many guests who pass through the gates of Disneyland Park first thing in the morning share an age-old tradition: to claim the latest edition of the park map. This time-honored practice has been made possible thanks to the nearly 40-year relationship Disneyland Resort has had with Anaheim-based printer Advantage ColorGraphics. For decades, Advantage ColorGraphics has played a behind-the-scenes role in helping guests navigate the magic at Disneyland Resort, one fold at a time. 

Click the photo above to learn more about Advantage ColorGraphics, and their work printing guide maps for Disneyland Resort.

Led by CEO Tom Ling, Advantage ColorGraphics has produced Disneyland Resort guide maps for decades, a working relationship that has helped the business grow alongside the resort itself. While millions of guests recognize the familiar glossy look and heavy-weight feel of the maps, few realize they are printed, spliced and folded just miles away in Anaheim by a local company.

A team member reviews one of the first map prints of the day. 

Advantage ColorGraphics began as a small-scale operation and has since grown into a business employing hundreds across multiple Orange County facilities. “Never in my wildest dreams did I think we’d have such a presence [in Anaheim],” Tom shares. 

Tom (right) works with one of his team members on refining a recent map design.

That growth has been fueled in part by long-standing work with Disneyland Resort, one built on precision, trust and shared attention to detail. Over the years, Advantage ColorGraphics has printed everything from everyday guide maps to specialty edition maps tied to holiday seasons, milestone celebrations and even historic moments during the resort’s reopening period.

Tom with just a few of the historic maps his team has helped print over the years.

For Tom, working with Disney has opened a world of opportunities for creating lasting relationships with other clients. “[We often hear from clients], ‘If Disney trusts you and you did all this great work for Disney, then I will give you the opportunity to print my items,’” says Tom. “That endorsement speaks volumes.”

Tom (left) and Les, one of Advantage ColorGraphics’s longest standing employees, share a laugh in the company’s warehouse.

In 2024, the company’s historic collaboration with Disney was formally celebrated when Advantage ColorGraphics was named Disneyland Resort Supplier of the Year. For Tom, the recognition reinforced what the relationship has meant not just to the business, but to the employees and families it supports.

In 2024, Advantage ColorGraphics was named Disneyland Resort Supplier of the Year.

“The work with Disney helps us support our employees and our business,” says Tom. Today, Advantage ColorGraphics proudly displays the Disneyland Resort Supplier of the Year Award in the company’s lobby as a memento of the relationship they have had for decades.

Tom (left) and Les (right) celebrate the company’s decades of work with Disneyland Resort.

Some of Tom’s most treasured memories have been spotting guests using the maps he helps print right inside the Disneyland Resort parks, a full-circle moment and reminder that a local Anaheim business can help create experiences enjoyed by visitors from around the world. “When I say I’m from Anaheim, people know it because of Disneyland,” Tom shares. “It makes me proud to say we’re a part of that.” 

The team behind Kayla’s Cake smile outside of their shop in Fullerton, California.

If you’ve strolled through Downtown Disney District in Anaheim, you may have noticed a charming cart with a glass case filled with colorful, mouth-watering French macarons.  

Behind those sweet creations is the inspiring story of Kayla Lee, a young mother who turned her passion into a thriving business. 

Ten years ago, Kayla, along with her sister and friend, followed their passion for baking and set out to perfect the art of making French macarons. “Those were humble, unforgettable days filled with countless test batches, late nights, laughter and tears,” recalled Kayla. “We poured our hearts into making the best macarons we possibly could.” 

Working out of a bagel shop, Kayla began knocking on local doors to share her creations. One of those doors happened to be the Downtown Disney District, and on the same day she approached the team, she was invited to present her macarons. 

Within one month, Kayla’s Cake secured a dedicated cart in the heart of Anaheim, marking the start of a relationship that has lasted a decade. 

Kayla proudly smiles at the newly reimagined Kayla’s Cake cart in Downtown Disney District.

For nearly half of Downtown Disney District’s 25-year history, Kayla’s Cake has been part of its story. “It feels like we have grown together, through challenges, celebrations and milestones,” said Kayla. The cart quickly became the brand’s main retail space alongside its Fullerton bakery, connecting Kayla’s tasty creations with guests from around the world. 

Thanks to incredible foot traffic and loyal fans, Kayla’s Cake has become a tradition for many guests. “Some stop by every month, others every time they visit the parks,” said Kayla. “Over the years, we’ve gained wonderful recognition. People now remember our name, our stand and our story.”

Being part of the Downtown Disney District gave Kayla opportunities she never expected. Today, Kayla’s Cake supplies desserts across Disneyland Resort, from hotels to parks to special events, a milestone that began with one small cart.  

One of Kayla’s favorite parts of her relationship with the district is the people she’s met along the way. “They’ve all become part of our story,” said Kayla. “Their dedication, joy and belief in our dream are the real secrets behind our success.” 

Today the business ships nationwide and has earned local recognition, including the Community Hero Award from the City of Fullerton. Beyond the successful business growth, Kayla’s Cake has created opportunities for others. “We’ve trained and employed many local moms and college students, helping them balance family life while pursuing their passions,” said Kayla.

Rows of colorful French macarons awaits guests at the Kayla’s Cake cart in Downtown Disney District. 

As Downtown Disney District continues its exciting reimagination, Kayla feels honored to be part of its next chapter. “The creativity and energy here are inspiring,” she said. “We’re grateful to continue being a small part of the magic.” 

Don’t miss the chance to stop by Kayla’s Cake next time you’re in Downtown Disney District. You never know what delicious new flavor they’ll be working on next!