Santa Planning
So… you’re planning the holiday party and you booked Santa Jeffy to make the event “merry & bright”. Now, you’ve moved on to the caterer or wrapping gifts and that Santa thing… it’s all under control.
NOT SO FAST, my elf in training!! We have some decisions to make. Your input will help me make your event memorable.
Now…put down that menu planner… set the paper and bows aside… let’s do some Santa Planning!!
Take the time to think about the these possible expectations. Then, send me an email, text, or call me to discuss your holiday wishes. Communication is the key to a great Santa experience.
Do you have specific expectations for Santa's arrival?
While I can simply walk in the front door, one of the best things about a Santa Claus visit is the "grand entrance". When I arrive at your home or business, I'll be in full costume, complete with my signature red and white suit, black boots (inspired by the movie Christmas Chronicles), and of course, my big white, real beard. I'll greet everyone with a hearty "HO, HO, HO" and make my way inside to start spreading some holiday cheer.
How would you prefer Santa to engage / entertain your guests?
During a Santa Claus visit, I'll do more than just pose for photos. I'll engage with your guests, whether they're children or adults. I'll chat with everyone about their Christmas wishes, tell stories about the North Pole, and maybe even sing a song or two. If there are children present, I'll spend extra time with them, making sure they feel special and heard. And if you have any special requests or traditions you'd like me to participate in, just let me know – I'm always happy to accommodate.
Candy, Gifts and Surprises?
If you have candy, gifts or stockings for me to distribute, I'll be happy to pass them out to your guests. If you have any special requests for the giving of surprise gifts or personalized messages, just let me know ahead of time and I'll do my best to make it happen.
For small candy items, please provide a holiday themed bag or container that I carry the treats in. I’d rather not leave the “leftovers” in a pile on a table at your venue when I depart. And, saves you the trouble of finding a sack for these as well.
I do have a “Santa’s Toy Sack” that can accommodate small gifts. It’s slight larger than a standard duffle bag. If you’d like me to bring this…
1) The gifts must have LARGE tags with the recipient's name clearly written. DO NOT rely on the typical “To/From” cards.
2) Please have someone available to help me fill the sack.
Photos and Memories?
No Santa Claus visit would be complete without some photos and memories to cherish. I'll pose for photos with your guests, both individually and as a group. If you have a photographer on hand, I'll work with them to make sure everyone gets a great shot. And if you'd like to record a video message from Santa, I can do that too.
If you plan to have a staged area for “Photos with Santa”, please have a safe, sturdy chair for me to sit in. A kitchen style chair or simple bench works really well (remember, the chair will probably not be seen with me in it and those getting in the picture). If possible, avoid chairs that have a low seat. Doing low squats during your event can be quite the workout!
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again… Please Emphasize Safety
During the Santa Claus visit, it's important to emphasize safety. Make sure the area where Santa Claus will be visiting is safe and secure, especially if children will be present. If you're having a large group of people present, make sure to have a plan in place for managing the crowd.
Do you have specific expectations for Santa's departure?
Again, while I can simply walk out the front door, when it's time for me to leave you may desire something a bit more festive. I'll wish all a happy holiday season. Remind your guests to "be good". Shake hands with children & adults alike. Will you have any parting words specific to the event? Tell me in advance and I will do my best to include them.
Other Planning Tips…
Parking of Santa Jeffy’s Sleigh… While we do not want to spoil the magic of Santa’s arrival by letting the kids see him hop out of a Toyota, consider where Santa can park his vehicle. If a home visit, perhaps the nice neighbor will let me use their driveway.
Please have parking available within a reasonable walking distance to your event. If it’s raining or snowing, you do not want a soggy Santa walking in the door.
Room Temperature… If possible, turn the thermostat down to 65-70 degrees prior to my arrival. Santa Jeffy’s primary holiday costume is heavy and better suited for riding in a sleigh on a cold winter’s night. Unless otherwise specified, please expect him to appear dressed as pictured in this website. Due to the tailoring of my holiday outfit, it is necessary that I take periodic breaks of 5 to 10 minutes per hour to cool off. It’s always appropriate to offer a cool drink of water!
And, “Holiday Cheer” in the form of adult beverages…
As much as Santa Jeffy enjoys a “Flaming Rum Punch, heavy on the cinnamon and light on the cloves” at any holiday event, it’s best not to offer him one. Especially if there are kids attending the event. Moreover, driving a flying sled pulled by 8 animals afterwards… sheesh!
