Santa Strickland

For picture sessions:
- Entry and greeting to everyone!
- Seating in a place where the lighting will give you great pictures.
- Each child (of whatever age) getting a picture can have a quiet chat with me, before the picture, about whatever they like, perhaps what they want for Christmas. I want the child to feel seen, feel special.
- If I'm there more than an hour, I might need to take a short break from time to time.
For visits:
- If you want me to hand out gifts, let me know where you've placed the wrapped small gifts. I'll put them in my bag before coming inside.
- Grand entrance and greeting!
- Stories about whatever the kids want to hear about. I can talk about the North Pole, the Reindeer, the elves, about my Christmas Eve travels, or any Christmassy topic!
- Games, whatever we end up doing. Ho-Ho-Ho contest, singing Carols, reading the Visit from St. Nicholas.
- Pictures with each child, and quiet chat where they can share whatever's on their mind with Santa.
- I'm open to your suggestions if you give me advance notice, in case I need to prepare.
- Gifts at the end, if you've provided them to me.
- Grand Exit!

My family has always told me I'd make a good Santa Claus. Quietly, in 2026, I took the "Practical Santa" class from Doug Eberhart (Santa Claus Hall of Fame class of 2025), and fell in love. This is something I'll enjoy doing as a retired guy. By Christmas I will have taken two Santa schools, and attended multiple monthly Santa dinners here in Charlotte.

I'm completely dedicated to the kids (of all ages) who come to see Santa! Whether it's a simple picture session or a home visit with stories and games, and maybe presents, my aim is to make heirloom memories for everyone.

1. Please keep the room cool! I am from the North Pole in a warm suit. Ideally 68F with the AC on.
2. Cell Phone: Before the event, let's make sure we have each other's mobile phone number so we can be in touch the day of the event.
3. Please try to have the kids inside prior to my arrival and not outside playing, as I don't want them to see me getting out of my sleigh and preparing to enter.
4. Please try to have a clear path for me to come inside, so I am not tripping over things. Please put up the furry friends during our visit.
5. Take as many pictures as you like for your memories and pleasure (not for commercial use). Please no smoking, and no food or drinks within picture distance.