In the heart of Texas, a group of jolly individuals take on more than just the responsibility of spreading holiday cheer. The Sleigh Masters, a collective of Santas and Mrs. Clauses, unite monthly to navigate the ups and downs of the Santa life. These gatherings reveal that even the role of Saint Nick comes with its set of trials, from handling crying toddlers to managing overexcited adults.
At the Sleigh Masters’ monthly meeting in DeSoto, Texas, the buzz among Santas is how to handle kids petrified of sitting on Santa’s lap. Bill Dendy, the group’s founder and a retired construction executive, suggests methods like letting parents hold their children for the photo or standing beside the child, not just insisting on holding them himself. It’s a scene right out of a Santa bootcamp where these performers share solutions and advice to maintain the magical aura of their role.
Dendy, who stumbled into playing Santa nearly two decades ago, now runs a Santa-suit-making business and serves as a mentor to many local Santas. He started the Sleigh Masters when he noticed a need for these performers to have a platform for discussing their unique challenges. Topics at meetings range from beard whitening tips to handling spontaneous photo requests with grace. And yes, even securing insurance against those more unpredictable moments on the job.
One might think that being Santa is all about the costume. But as Kirby Kinney, another Santa, explains, the suit is just the beginning – a proper one costs as much as $2,000 and looking the part requires attention to everything from boots to a well-groomed beard. Larry Davis, a Santa from Waxahachie, prides himself on his natural snowy beard, pointing out that maintaining a Santa look can entail bleaching for some.
However, the challenges aren’t always about appearance. Santas often deal with unexpected situations like stolen suits or overly eager Mrs. Clauses trying to upstage their performances. Dendy recounts a time when parents attempted to slip their child a superior gift through him, which he deftly managed by crediting those gifts to the parents themselves, upholding Santa’s image as an impartial gift-giver.
The gatherings of the Sleigh Masters are not just for exchanging stories but are also a chance to finesse the art of being Santa. Dendy and others like him follow detailed scripts that evolve over the years, making sure returning families get a fresh experience each holiday season. His meticulous record-keeping and thoughtful follow-up have ensured that families eagerly invite him back year after year.
But the role isn’t just about the fun and glamor. “Santa is the world’s safe space,” says Christopher Saunders, another Santa in the group. Children often look to Santa not only for toys but also to answer some of their life’s tougher questions. From mending family troubles to simple reassurances, these performers understand the weight their words carry.
As the meeting draws to a close, it’s clear that these Sleigh Masters are not just donning a suit for kicks. They are custodians of childhood wonder, ever ready to learn, adapt, and make each holiday season magical in its own way.
While they may appear as just holiday entertainers, the Sleigh Masters of Texas show that there’s serious dedication behind their merriment. Their camaraderie and passion for perfecting the Santa craft ensure that, come Christmastime, they’re not simply wearing a red suit but embodying the spirit of the season with genuine warmth and professionalism.
Source: Yahoo
