Vacation Planning vs VIP Tour vs concierge

[PKile]

I am setting up a trip to Disneyland in late August for a friend's 50th birthday. Already have concierge level reservations at GCH. I am also considering the 4-hour VIP tour of DLR. No holds barred for this special lady, who loves Disneyland and Tinkerbell.
My question is, what is the best plan for obtaining preferred seating at restaurants (Blue Bayou, Vineyard Room), for the fireworks, and for the Aladdin show? Is it best to use Disney Vacation Planning, the Concierge service at the hotel, or the VIP tour cast member?
Also, any suggestions for making it extra special?
Thanks in Advance!

[bradk]

well, as having done the VIP tour recently, I can assure you they will set up for the fireworks and aladdin (although i'm personally not sure i'd go that route for aladdin, but at least you can sit in shaded area sooner).

they'll also make arrangements for dining, but i really don't know how and if this differs from just doing it yourself other than it saves a phonecall.

they do this when you make arrangements for the tour, not during the tour itself.