As the official Santa Claus for the City of Boston (and one of the most experienced Santa’s for hire in Massachusetts), I have had the privilege of being hired at over one thousand events since 2004. Through all of the holiday parties, tree lightings, corporate events and even marriage proposals, I have seen many Santa Claus visit successes and… misses over the years. Looking back, I realized there are a few key elements that appear at every successful holiday gathering.
I’m going to share some great tips on how to have a successful Santa Claus visit over this three-part blog series.
Location, location, location. Just like in real estate, where Santa Claus meets with the little one makes a bigger difference than you might think.
As a Santa Claus for hire, part of the job description includes flexibility and an ability to adapt to the various situations presented to the entertainer. That being said, successful St. Nick appearances (with great photos) almost always share similar characteristics.
A typical great visit has me arriving with great fanfare. “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” is playing throughout; children gleefully anticipate the big fellow’s arrival; and the perfect place for Santa is ready to go. A large chair is set up strategically: away from the fireplace, not in front of any windows next; and near to a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
The bigger the chair, the better, and not just because Santa is a rotund fellow. Wiggly kids need a bit of room; multiple people can comfortably fit in the shot; and some of the shyer children may feel better not sitting on Santa’s lap.*
And while you might be thinking of placing St. Nick next to a fireplace consider this: there’s a reason I have a ‘clause’ in my contract that states that I will not be placed next to an active fireplace. Santa Claus is already pretty warm, and the only thing that should be roasting are chestnuts, and not your performer.
I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this article. Check back next week for my second tip for a successful Santa Claus visit. And if you do need a professional Santa Claus for hire, either in Massachusetts or virtually, visit my website, www.SantaBoston.com to bring me in for your holiday party!
*Not sitting on Santa’s lap?! Blasphemous! But it’s really not. Especially in the time of Covid, many people bring in a professional Santa Claus to their event specifically so that their children don’t have to visit him at the mall. And while I know how important the photography is, my number one goal with a visit is for the child to feel good about the experience, even if that means they don’t come as close as you would like for the photo. It’s particularly important with toddlers – if you don’t force them into a difficult situation this year, you’re setting yourself up for successful photos for future encounters.