Moms to Know: Altoniece Reynolds, Head of Resort Experiences, LEGOLAND Florida Resort
Perseverance, grace, and an acceptance that work-life balance is not easy—Altoniece Reynolds, Head of Resort Experiences at LEGOLAND Florida Resort, is able to bring all these lessons from motherhood to her professional journey.
These building blocks of success have not only helped her climb the leadership ranks at work but have also shown her kids that if they dream big and work hard, they can achieve their goals, too.
In Case You’re Interested:
>> Super Fun Family Restaurants
>> Cheap Family Fun
>> Orlando Hotels with Waterparks
Tell us a little bit about yourself and the professional journey that led you to SEA LIFE Florida?
Altoniece Reynolds: My journey in the theme park world began over a decade ago as front-line staff directing traffic in the LEGOLAND Florida parking lot during spring break. I never imagined that years later I’d be leading major resort experiences across LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including helping open the very first PEPPA PIG Theme Park in the world and now overseeing SEA LIFE Florida!
Each step along the way from attractions to operations, to leadership roles has been fueled by a passion for creating unforgettable family moments. And I am especially proud to represent working moms in this space. I’ve got three energetic kids at home who keep me grounded and inspired.
What was it like to work with a team to launch a new attraction in Florida? Any lessons learned about the importance of teamwork?
Altoniece Reynolds: Launching a new attraction like SEA LIFE Florida is like building a LEGO masterpiece, it takes a lot of moving pieces, patience, and trust! Whether it’s coordinating the arrival of sea creatures or refining the guest experience… every small win adds up to something BIG!
The biggest lesson? Never underestimate the power of communication and collaboration. Every role matters, from the aquarists behind the scenes to our Model Citizens in the front lines greeting guests—when we’re aligned, that’s when the spark happens for our guests.
What are some of your favorite things to do as a family in Central Florida?
Altoniece Reynolds: As a native of Winter Haven, who loves sports, I am either going fishing with my son, traveling for basketball with my daughter, or finding family-friendly events in the community.
Just this weekend, we participated in a Juneteenth celebration parade, explored local downtown markets, and did some family shopping. I can honestly say there’s always something fun to discover around Central Florida!
How did you balance motherhood and continuing your education? Any advice you’d offer other moms out there looking to further their educational goals?
Altoniece Reynolds: Balance is definitely not easy. I was raising my little ones, working full-time, and studying late at night. There were days I felt like I was running on fumes. But I kept reminding myself who I was doing it for: my kids. I wanted them to see what perseverance looks like.
My advice to other moms? Give yourself grace. You don’t have to do it all at once. Small steps forward still count. Lean on the people around you, that’s why it takes a village right!? And don’t be afraid to let your kiddos see you working hard for something bigger because they’re watching, and they’ll be your biggest cheerleaders.
We know it will be hard to choose, but what are some of your favorite things at SEA LIFE Florida?
Altoniece Reynolds: How can I possibly choose just one favorite at SEA LIFE Florida?! I watched it all come together from a patch of dirt to a beautifully themed, immersive experience. Every corner holds a memory, and every detail has a special place in my heart.
That said, if I had to choose, there’s something so incredibly peaceful about the 180-degree ocean tunnel. Walking through it feels like you’ve stepped into another world, the colors, the theming, the ambiance. Seeing our Theme Park Under the Sea is awe-inspiring every single time!
I also truly believe in the mission at work here. The conservation efforts and care our team gives to every animal serve as a constant reminder that SEA LIFE is more than just a beautiful attraction.
It’s a place with purpose, where every visit can inspire guests to care a little more about our oceans. Being part of something that makes a real impact, especially for future generations, means everything to me.
READ MORE:
Originally published in the Jul/Aug Issue of Orlando Parenting Magazine.
