Workshop Presenters Shared Files

• BLOCK 1 - Saturday – March 29 at 3:30-5:00pm

Great Home Visits  - Broken Down - Mitch Allen (MILLS ROOM)

This workshop is designed for Santa at various stages of their career, from those who are new to home visits to an experienced Santa looking to refine their skills. It is particularly beneficial for:

- A newer Santa: Those who are just starting out and need guidance on how to conduct successful and memorable home visits.

- An Experienced Santa: Santa who has been performing for a few years and are looking to enhance their techniques and add new elements to their home visit repertoire.

- Santa Trainers: Individuals responsible for training and mentoring a new Santa, providing them with advanced tips and best practices.

How to Get the Perfect Shot - Stephenie Boys (ROOM 1)

How to work with your photographer to engage with children, work with parents, how to choose the perfect set, safe props, pose ideas and lists, and what to do in specific situations when children may not cooperate. 

The Business of Santa - Ann Donley & George Grasic (ROOM 3)

We will discuss various business topics including, but not limited to, record keeping, Federal income tax implications, types of entities, billing issues, etc.

Lights, Camera, Makeup - Lee Andrews (ROOM C)

In this class we will discuss make-up types, make-up products, make-up application, and make-up removal to help your Santa look the best he possibly can. We will discuss beard whitening make-up and the options you have to apply it. We will discuss face make-up and why it is important for you to wear some sort of make-up in your portrayal. We will discuss and show you how to make your Santa beard appear fuller and healthier using make-up techniques. 

Santa’s Hair - A work in Progress - Missy Boggs (ROOM D)

Teaching Santa the best practices for having beautiful healthy hair and beard while preventing breakage and damage. If you have hair or a beard you can benefit  a lot from this class.

• BLOCK 2 - Sunday – March 30 at 11:00am-12:30pm

Sneak-a-Peak  - Steve & Debra Gillham (ROOM 1)

This workshop explores the concept of Santa being able to “sneak” in, leave gifts, have a bite of cookie and a swig of milk and the kids getting a “peak”......all without a word being said. Learn the details behind this magical visit from Santa.  Create a memory that will last a lifetime!

Everything a New Santa Must Know - Mitch Allen (ROOM 3)

The objective of this course is to equip a new Santa with the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in their role. Participants will learn how to navigate various types of events, effectively market themselves, and handle common questions. The course will also cover best practices for posing for pictures, engaging with children, and securing more work opportunities.

Mrs. Claus & Santa - Character, Solo & Seasoned Success - Shawn White (ROOM C)

Developing character/backstory and how to get the job working solo or with Santa including tips on marketing and social media.

Santa’s Guide to AI - Your Storytelling Assistant- Santa Carlucci & Jenny Lynn (ROOM D)

An easy to use way of using the latest AI LLMs as an assistant tool to create stories for the students' performance based visits.  All students will be shown how to create interesting stories, getting suggestions of how children can interact with the story, and even be provided ways to create scripts to enhance storytelling.   Students will be given AI input data to create their own stories plus a followup email with a list of AI prompts to further their depth of using this tool.

• BLOCK 3 - Sunday – March 30 at 3:00-4:30pm

Fake it ‘til You Make it - the Power of Improv - Lee Andrews (MILLS ROOM)

As Christmas Performers one of our jobs is to create a land of fantasy and make believe. We get asked questions of all types or placed in sometimes questionable scenarios. What sets us apart from others is how we handle those situations and answer those questions. In this class we will dive deep in how to be quick witted, how to create a rolodex of answers, how to engage with a performer you have never worked with before, and how to handle the toughest of situations. 

Branding your Holiday Business for Success - Susan Mesco (ROOM 1)

Understanding that true branding involves 8 important elements- far beyond a cute logo. How to put these elements together to create a powerful impact on your target audience, to stand out from other average holiday performers in your area, and increase your income by attracting higher-end clients.

How to Stay Cool - the Effects of Heat - Julie Kracke (ROOM 3)

Bursting with heat facts for Santa and Mrs. Claus that'll knock your stockings off! 

You'll leave loaded with tips to keep cool and the scoop on 5 different types of cooling vests—so you'll know which ones will have you ho-ho-hoing all the way and which ones are on the naughty list!

Sleigh Your Competition: Tools for managing and growing your business - Roger Minton (ROOM C)

In the dynamic world of entertainment, staying ahead means having the right tools at your fingertips. This workshop will dive into the essential technologies that can transform how you manage your business, including Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, efficient calendar management, and the power of AI. Discover how these tools can streamline your operations, enhance client relationships, and propel your business to new heights. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting, learn how to sleigh the competition and ensure your 

Women & an American Christmas - Pamela McColl (ROOM D)

As a cultural historian Pamela McColl delivers a fascinating talk on the development of Christmas traditions in America and shares dozens of remarkable women who contributed to Christmas traditions and customs over the years. The talk also covers the literary development of the character of Mrs. Claus from the mid 1800s to today. 

business thrives.

• BLOCK 4 - Monday – March 31 at 8:00-9:30am

The Three Clay Pots - Steve & Debra Gillham (MILLS ROOM)

This workshop is about telling my new virtue story, "The Three Clay Pots!" The story teaches children about three different kinds of people: Ordinary, Takers, and Gift Givers. It explains that everyone, elves included, falls into one of the three categories.   In class, I tell the props needed and where to buy them (the price for the pots is from $8 to $100 each.)  I will show a video of the story being told to children, as well as discuss key moments during the telling. When the group departs from the class, they will know everything they need to perform this story next season.

The Magic of the Holidays - Joe Barney (ROOM 1)

You don't have to be Houdini to add a little magic in your performance as Santa & Mrs. Claus.  These two are world icons and the most magical people on earth.  Santa isn't a magician but he spreads magic where ever he goes.  Learn how to spread that magic in your portrayal of Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Musing of a Mall Santa - Myth & Magic - Terry Bell  (ROOM 3)

Musings of a Mall Santa provides an inside look at the life of Santa in large venues.  In this class, we'll compare and contrast working as a contracted Christmas character vs. operating as an independent, identifying the myths often told and providing the truth. You'll learn how to quickly connect with children and families and provide a magical experience every time. If you are a Mall Santa or are considering becoming a Mall Santa, this workshop is for you!

Parade Training - Showing Your Santa Heart - Kenneth Debelius (ROOM C)

Performing in a parade is a unique experience unlike any other Santa portrayal. Showcasing Santa's Heart, Energy, Love and Spirit of Christmas will be discussed. Santa's look, voice, words, body movements, safety and interaction with all involved in the parade all contribute to the success of a great Santa.

Past, Present & Future Santa Suits - Bill Dendy (ROOM D)

An overview of the history and trends of the Santa suit in the USA.  What fabrics to consider in having a suit made and things to do to improve the look of your existing suit(s).

• BLOCK 5 - Monday – March 31 at 10:00-11:30am

Sign for Santa - Paul Burke (ROOM 1)

Intro to sign language for Santa with discussion of: deaf culture, finger spelling, basic signs, forms. styles of communication used by the deaf community.  Paul has an  Associates degree in Interpreter Training from Chattanooga State Technical Community College and is a volunteer interpreting in a church setting, workshops and substitute interpreting from elementary to college age. 

Protecting that Investment - Rex Ray (ROOM 3)

Care, cleaning and storage of our costuming.

Make your event more Magical with Magic - Larry Talbert (ROOM C)

NOT to be a Magician,  just learn to have magical things occur around Santa, Mrs. Claus and The Elves.

What Are the Clauses Worth? - Dan Greenleaf (ROOM D)

How much to charge for Santa & Mrs. Claus visits is the focus of this workshop. Strategies for getting top rates will be emphasized. This session will take a detailed approach of how to set your rates and options for allowing flexibility.  Using sales and negotiating techniques to land clients will be covered. We will explore alternative compensation options and steps to insure you get paid. 

• BLOCK 6 - Monday – March 31 at 2:00-3:30pm

Santa & Pure Imagination - Joe Barney (MILLS ROOM)

How to use your imagination and small props to create a magical visit with children of all ages.

Quality Santa/Mrs. Claus visit with autistic children - Susan Mesco (ROOM 1)

Overview of Autism. Recognizing what each Autistic child needs BEFORE they approach. Techniques for Santa / Mrs. Claus to best serve each type of Autism. Revealing the one secret needed to have a successful lap encounter with any child with Autism. What the parents of the Autistic Child need from Santa / Mrs. Claus.

Even Santa needs Insurance - Larry Talbert (ROOM 3)

To help people understand what coverages are provided by each program available so that they can make an informed decision on the plan that fits their needs the best.  

Magic with the Clauses - Mike & Nina Britt (ROOM C)

How you and a partner can incorporate simple magic into your performance.  Working with a partner can bring new elements to your corporate and/or home events. 

The Performing Santa - Ray Jamstone (ROOM D)

Sharpen your performance skills.... be more than just a prop!

• BLOCK 7 - Tuesday – April 1 at 9:00-10:30am

How to Become a Claus everyone loves - Ed Taylor (MILLS ROOM)

Join us to discuss the "27 Points of Judgement" that influence how people perceive and interact with a Claus portrayal artist. Whether you're a seasoned Santa or just starting, this presentation will equip you with the insights and tools to excel in every aspect of your portrayal—from maintaining a compelling demeanor to managing social media effectively. Participants will explore crucial areas such as wardrobe choices, vocal techniques, body language, and more across various contexts like retail settings, home and company parties, large public events, and virtual appearances.

Creating Magical Environments using Technology - Michael Howe & Michael Beurer (ROOM 1)

Let's explore utilizing diverse technologies to create lasting memories that transcend our usual settings. We'll exchange tips on optimizing Virtual Visits (both Corporate and Personal) and Providential Visits, covering practical setups like hardware, applications, and environmental choices. Moreover, we'll discuss the advantages of embracing these technological innovations for magical Christmas memories.

The Clauses and the Inevitable - Rex Ray (ROOM 3)

A frank discussion of preparing for the end of your career as a Christmas performer, both planned and unplanned, temporary or permanent.

Underneath it All - Erica Minton (ROOM C)

Step back into the world of Claus and explore the fascinating world of fashion in this immersive class on historical undergarments. Designed to help you get the silhouette you've always dreamed of and the support you need to portray all day.  Designed for Mrs. Clauses but all are welcome.

Using Agents & Gig Booking Sites   - Dan Greenleaf (ROOM D)

This session will explore how to work with booking agents to get jobs. How they operate and whom they hire will be explored. Strategies will be shared on how to give yourself the best chance to get booked. Use of GigSalad, The Bash and similar booking sites will be covered. 

• BLOCK 8 - Tuesday – April 1 at 10:45am-12:15pm

Working with children with Disabilities - Bill Quasa & Kevin Boydston (ROOM 1)

Carrying on the work of Santa John Schuech and Santa America, we will discuss working with folks with chronic diseases,  those dealing with death, grief and bereavement, children on the spectrum, and foster children. 

The Christmas Classic that gave America Santa Claus - Robert Karrick (ROOM 3)

Workshop attendees will gain a greater appreciation for the influence Moore's poem has had on the world's conception of Santa Claus and the way America celebrates Christmas.

Lessons for Awakening Your Creativity from Santa's Creative Team - Jenny Watt (ROOM C)

We will use the lessons from Santa's creative elves to create an imaginative answer to a question.

Understanding Santa’s Wardrobe and how to Enhance it - Doug Eberhart (ROOM D)

This class is to teach all Santas and Mrs. Claus' the different types of Santa Suits, and all the unique ways you can enhance your look on any budget.  Classic Traditional Santa Suits, Cola Suits, Continental Coats, Robes, Vests, Waistcoats, shirts, Belts, buckles, boots and Fur.  There are so many ways to change your look but adding components to your basic garment foundation.