2025 Reviews

505 Photography 11-01-25

Giggle Face Photography 11-08-25

Santa Minis

This was our third year working with Jerry, aka Jolly Ole Elf, for our Santa Minis, and he continues to be absolutely incredible! He brings so much warmth, joy, and holiday magic to every session. Our clients rave about how kind, patient, and wonderful he is—he truly makes the experience unforgettable. I highly recommend hi

Santa Minis

Shelby Starkey

Owner/Photographer

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Giggle Face Photography 11-08-25

Santa mini sessions

Santa Jerry, I am convinced, is the real Santa! I feel like it’s Christmas Day every time he comes to the studio ! He is so jolly and amazing with the kids! Santa Jerry is patient, kind and captivates the kids with his fun props! I had several return clients come back 2 years in a row just to see Santa Jerry because h

Santa mini sessions

Thanks again and God bless you,
Chelsea Rittenhouse

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Amy Sprunger Photography 11-10-25

Giggle Face Photography 11-08-25

The Local Archive 11-29-25

Santa Minis

Santa Minis at my studio could not have gone better. Jolly Ole Elf was in tune with the different personalities of the children coming to see him. Whether they were bouncing into the room or walking in a little shy, Santa knew exactly how to greet them and connect with them. The Jolly Ole Elf is indeed the best Santa!

With Christmas Cheer, Amy Sprunger Photography

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The Local Archive 11-29-25

Studio Visit

Our Jolly Ole Elf Experience was so extremely magical. The comments we had from our guest experience was "We didn't expect him to be so real." The goal of all of our events is to share ways that enrich our local communities lives with the Creatives. This Jolly Ole Elf brought a bag of magic and also a heart of gold that conne

Studio Visit

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Decatur Rotory Club 12-04-25

The Local Archive 11-29-25

Voss Automotive 12-07-25

Club Visit

I am pleased to provide a review of Jerry Allen, who recently portrayed Santa Claus at our Decatur Rotary Christmas Party. From the moment Jerry arrived, he engaged warmly with our group, immediately putting everyone at ease. He was incredibly personable, sitting by the Christmas tree and inviting children and their families to join him, making each interaction special. Throughout the event, Jerry demonstrated genuine enthusiasm for spreading holiday cheer, taking extra time to listen to each child’s Christmas wishes, and ensuring every family felt welcomed. Jerry also encouraged members and guests to take pictures with Santa, creating memorable moments for all.

During the party, Jerry graciously agreed to pass out presents to each attendee, bringing his own Santa bag filled with gifts, in which the Decatur Rotary Club provided. He was flexible and easy to work with, accommodating every request from our first contact through the end of the event. Jerry’s professionalism and cheerful demeanor made our Christmas party truly memorable, and I highly recommend him for any event where a genuine and engaging Santa Claus is needed.

Sincerely,

Wylie Sirk

Decatur Rotary Club President

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Voss Automotive 12-07-25

The Local Archive 11-29-25

Voss Automotive 12-07-25

Employee Christmas Party at Parkview Field

5.0

Overall satisfaction

5.0

Professionalism

5.0

Accomodating

5.0

Talent

5.0

Likely to recommend

5.0

Employee Christmas Party at Parkview Field

5.0

Overall satisfaction

5.0

Professionalism

5.0

Accomodating

5.0

Talent

5.0

Likely to recommend

5.0

Jolly Ole Elf was the absolute favorite at our company's family event. He was so kind and engaging, making both children and adults feel the magic of Christmas. Both at the event and in the days after, all our employees kept commenting on how wonderful he was and how he exceeded everyone's already high expectations. We are already looking forward to next year, when we can have him come visit again and continue spreading the festive cheer!

Olivia Haworth

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Swiss Village Inc. 12-08-25

Retirement Village Visit

5/5 stars from all of us at Swiss Village!

Santa was once again an unforgettable part of our Christmas at the Village celebration! He communicated with us ahead of time, arrived early, and greeted residents and guests with warmth and joy. His suit looked picture-perfect, and he gave every child and resident his full

Retirement Village Visit

5/5 stars from all of us at Swiss Village!

Thank you!! Merry Christmas!

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Kuehnert Dairy 12-10-25

Swiss Village Inc. 12-08-25

Kuehnert Milk House

Thank you so very much for helping to make our event special and such a success. You are wonderful ! We greatly appreciate the love and kindness you show to all. Merry Christmas !

The Kuehnerts

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Two-EE's Winery 12-16-25

Swiss Village Inc. 12-08-25

Autism Society of Indiana 12-19-25

Two-EE's Winery

There’s one comment we hear from parents year after year — this Santa is the real deal. There truly isn’t a Santa quite like Santa Jerry. Every detail is pure perfection, from his rosy cheeks to the subtle sparkle of glitter that adds an extra touch of holiday magic.

Rebecca Coldren

Director of Events and Customer Engagement

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Autism Society of Indiana 12-19-25

Autism Society of Indiana

We can't begin to thank you enough for helping to bring some magic to families who need it more than most.

The impact you made today will last well beyond the Holiday Season.

Maggie Hatter Furr

Senior Director of Direct Care

Autism Society of Indiana

(Faces blurred for Protection)

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2024 Reviews

Giggle Face Photography 11-23-24

The Towne House Retirement Community 12-17-24

Santa mini sessions

Jolly Ole Elf was incredible! His expressions and interactions with the kids were exactly what I was hoping for during my Christmas mini sessions. Looking forward to booking with him again next year!

Rating: *****
Reviewer: Chelsea Rittenhouse
Event Date: November 23rd, 2024
Services Provided: Santa Claus

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The Towne House Retirement Community 12-17-24

Beyond expectations!

Jerry was amazing. We scheduled him for a Christmas party for our Long Term Care/Memory Care area yesterday and he was superb. He confirmed prior to the date, he was punctual, and so easy to work with. We had made little gifts for all of our residents and had him go around and pass them out to all the party-goers. After we touched on all of those in attendance, he was willing to go door to door with us to touch on those residents that were too ill to come out. He brought so many smiles to our residents faces and made such a meaningful impact to our community. We will definitely be booking him, again. Jerry is fantastic!

Rating: *****
Reviewer: Jenae Bennington
Event Date: December 17th, 2024
Services Provided: Santa Claus

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Home Party 12-21-24

The Towne House Retirement Community 12-17-24

Home Party 12-21-24

Absolutely Perfect!!!

Jolly Ole Elf was so kind, caring, fun, funny, he took time with each of us for pictures. He had all the children (and a lot of the adults) mesmerized by his demeanor and actions. He had children from 6 months old to 83 years old to sit with him. Just absolutely perfect!!!

Would DEFINITELY love to have Jolly Ole Elf a

Absolutely Perfect!!!

Would DEFINITELY love to have Jolly Ole Elf again!!!

Rating: *****
Reviewer: Beth Ann Owen
Event Date: December 21st, 2024
Services Provided: Santa Claus

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Openi Photography LLC 11-24-24

505 Photography 11-02 & 03-24

5.0

Overall satisfaction

5.0

Professionalism

5.0

Accomodating

5.0

Talent

5.0

Likely to recommend

5.0

Jolly Ole Elf was definitely a one of a kind. Professional, kind, people person and works well with everyone. He is truly passionate and carries a sincerity of generosity and love for everyone. It's in his eyes, in his smile and it definitely shows t

5.0

Overall satisfaction

5.0

Professionalism

5.0

Accomodating

5.0

Talent

5.0

Likely to recommend

5.0

Shawntel Kelley

Openi Photography LLC

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505 Photography 11-02 & 03-24

I hope this message finds you well! I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for helping us bring the magic of Santa photos to life again this year. It was an absolute pleasure working with you, as always.

-Shelby Starkey -505 Photography-

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BlueBird Photography 11-16 & 17-24

505 Photography 11-02 & 03-24

BlueBird Photography 11-16 & 17-24

Jerry is hands down the best Santa I have ever worked with! As a photographer offering a boutique Santa experience to my clients, I needed someone who is a true professional and that’s exactly what Jerry is. His costume is high quality and whimsical, his beard is real, he adds all the right touches for the perfect amount of charm and magic. But the best part about working with Jerry is how he interacts with the clients. He fully embraces the role of Santa and makes the experience wonderfully magic for the littles, and even interacts with the older siblings in a way that helps them warm up and feel comfortable, even if they don’t “believe”. Each year I hear feedback from my clients about how wonderful my Santa was, how authentic he looked and how magical he made the experience. He is a pleasure to work with, the best in the business!

-Ashley Clauss, Bluebird Photography

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Christmas Eve Home visit 12-24-24

Ft Wayne Railroad Historical Society Numerous dates

If you’re looking to elevate your Christmas Eve to pure magic, Santa Claus himself is the gold standard. He showed up right on time, decked out in his classic red suit with that signature twinkle in his eye, and brought instant joy to every kid in the house. His warm, jolly presence lit up the room before he even opened his sack of gifts

And speaking of gifts—each child, 16 to be exact, received a thoughtfully chosen, perfectly wrapped present that felt personal and special(gifts provided by parents). The excitement and wide-eyed wonder on their faces? Absolutely priceless. Santa Jerry didn’t just hand out gifts; he created a core memory for every little one there.

His kindness, patience, and ability to make each child feel seen and special set him apart. You could practically feel the magic in the air long after he left. 10/10, highly effective recommend inviting Santa Jerry over if you want to make Christmas Eve unforgettable ! Santa Jerry has been a part of our Christmas Eve tradition for the past 4 years !

Ashley Sholl

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Ft Wayne Railroad Historical Society Numerous dates

Part of my responsibilities with the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society is to be the official “Santa Wrangler” . This involves finding qualified Santa’s and booking them for our numerous Christmas related operations, including Caboose Rides and Santa Trains. The Santa’s selected for these events must be able to effectively play the

Santa Jerry Allen has been with us for many years, and I can say that he has filled the role of Santa in an exceptional way. His sparkling smile and incredible suit provide an unforgettable experience for adults and children alike.

Our Santa’s must be able to endure hours-long shifts and be as cheerful with the last passenger as they are with the first. Our trains always leave on schedule and Santa must be in place and ready to go on time. Jerry has always been extremely dependable and more than willing to fill in for another Santa if necessary. Jerry is my go-to source when a new Santa is needed to help our growing need for additional Santa’s.

I can unconditionally recommend Jerry as a Santa who can do it all.

Bill Otter

Director and Past President

The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society

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storyphotographybyselenallc Numerous dates

Ft Wayne Railroad Historical Society Numerous dates

storyphotographybyselenallc Numerous dates

Jolly Ole Elf (AKA Santa Jerry) was wonderful to work with. This is the first time I've participated in a Santa themed session and it was a very smooth experience. Jerry was patient, kind, understanding, and accepting of everyone we had in the studio. I hope to work with Jolly Ole Elf again in the future; until then I recommend anyone se

Story Photography by Selena LLC (Selena Oxender)

selena@storyphotographybyselena.com

Phone:

419-770-9337

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Swiss Village, Inc. 11-9-24

American Dream Team Realty Open House at the Pine Valley Country Club 11-26-24

Santa was a highlight of our Christmas at the Village event this year! He arrived early and kept in great communication with us beforehand. His Santa suit was perfect, and he made sure to visit with residents before the event even began. Throughout the event, he took his time with every child and resident, pausing for photos with each on

Jessica Reinhard
Marketing Coordinator
Swiss Village, Inc.

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American Dream Team Realty Open House at the Pine Valley Country Club 11-26-24

I just wanted to express how grateful we are to you, for making our Pie Giveaway + Photos with Santa Event so special! You truly brought such a joyous attitude and ambiance to our event. We could feel how happy you were to be there, and how happy everyone was to have you join us for such a special occasion. I also wanted to include some

"You picked an amazing Santa to be here tonight, my daughter loved him. She felt so comfortable around him and kept giving him gifts!"

"Wow what great Santa you found! All the kids were so comfortable around him and he was always very happy, going around to families and staying in character the entire time."

"We had such a fun time tonight, Santa Jerry is awesome. Our son was nervous at first, but after spending some time in the same room he quickly became very comfortable around him. We got some great photos of him sitting on Santa's lap for the first time!"

"You hired a great Santa, he was super friendly and I got some amazing pictures of nieces and nephews with him. They were so happy to meet Santa for the first time. We definitely need to hire him again."

Thanks again for everything, I'm looking forward to seeing you again

I hope you have a very Merry Christmas!

Samantha Camperman

Administrative Assistant - American Dream Team Realtors

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Sacred Images Photography 12-7-24

American Dream Team Realty Open House at the Pine Valley Country Club 11-26-24

Sacred Images Photography 12-7-24

Our Santa pictures wouldn't be the same without you, I have clients tell me they look forward to seeing you each year. You are expressive and engaging with each child and attentive to those who are a little scared. I am so thankful for your continued support and time you dedicate to being the best Santa ever.

Mandi Zebulske

-Sacred Images Photography-

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Taylor Chapel Academy 12-19-24

American Dream Team Realty Mick McMaken 11-26-24

Ft Wayne Zoo Numerous dates

Best Santa!!

Santa Jerry was absolutely amazing! We scheduled with him to visit our preschool, and he was the best we have had yet! During his visit he helped pass out gifts to each of the students and was also willing to take a picture with each of them! He was also willing to wave to students as they left for the day! He definitely made

Best Santa!!

Ms. Jamie

Taylor Chapel Academy

Director of Human Resources

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Ft Wayne Zoo Numerous dates

American Dream Team Realty Mick McMaken 11-26-24

Ft Wayne Zoo Numerous dates

Santa Jerry was an absolute delight to have at our Wild Zoo Wonderland event at the Fort Wayne Zoo! His enthusiasm and warm holiday spirit created magical moments for everyone. He was genuinely excited to meet all the kids, and they couldn’t get enough of interacting with him and posing for photos. Santa Jerry’s presence truly elevated t

-Jessica Fulk-

Guest Experience Event & Sales Manager

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American Dream Team Realty Mick McMaken 11-26-24

I couldn't have been more impressed with our experience having Jerry as our Santa Claus! From the moment he arrived, he was fully in character. Not only was his costume great, but he brought an authentic warmth and charm to the night - that truly made our Pie Giveaway so special. He engaged with the kids (and adults!) so well, taking the time to listen to each child's Christmas wish, sharing jokes, and spreading festive cheer throughout the night. His jolly personality was contagious, and he really helped create a magical atmosphere - that our team will remember for years to come.

If you're looking for a Santa who brings both professionalism and fun, this one is an absolute gem. I highly recommend Santa Jerry!

Thanks again,

Mick McMaken

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Lutheran Health Network, Hope's Harbor, and Mission: Motherhood, 12-12-24

For our 6th Annual Love Light Shine Bright event with Lutheran Health Network, Hope's Harbor, and Mission: Motherhood, we were absolutely honored to welcome Santa Jerry. In his holiday presence, we all felt like little kids again excited for what was to come. He made a point to chat with all our attendees, old and young, and brightened the experience for our community with his genuine holiday spirit. We are grateful for his time and talent brought to us for this event that encompasses what the holiday season is all about.

Note from Santa Jerry: I even got to meet Komets Mascot, Icy D. Eagle .

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Two EE's Winery 12-18-24

Lutheran Health Network, Hope's Harbor, and Mission: Motherhood, 12-12-24

Once I saw pictures of Santa Jerry, I knew he would be perfect for our event. We were referred to Jerry through a friend. Santa Jerry's communication throughout the entire process was excellent and very thorough. Santa Jerry was wonderful and polite as ever ! Santa Jerry exceeded our expectations and kept the magic of Santa alive

We had a wonderful Christmas event and Santa coming to Two-EE's for the first time will not be forgotten and it won't be the last. We would recommend Santa Jerry to everyone, as long as it doesn't conflict with our date we want him! ;)

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Kuehnert Dairy Farm 12-19-24

Lutheran Health Network, Hope's Harbor, and Mission: Motherhood, 12-12-24

Kuehnert Dairy Farm 12-19-24

Add a short description.

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2023 Reviews

505 Photography 11/11/2023

Indiana National Guard Armory in Bluffton IN 11/24/2023

BlueBird Photography 11/18/2023

Thank you so much Jerry for assisting as Santa in my Santa minis!

You were a pleasure to work with! I will be in touch soon to plan something again! I will definitely recommend you for anyone looking for a Santa impersonator!

Thanks again! -

505PHOTOGRAPHY | Shelby Starkey . 260.704.1856

BlueBird Photography 11/18/2023

Indiana National Guard Armory in Bluffton IN 11/24/2023

BlueBird Photography 11/18/2023

I absolutely loved working with Jolly Ole Elf for my Santa Experience photography sessions!

We had a very interactive session style where kids were doing lots of activities with Santa and Jerry was fantastic with all of them. He even brought some of his own actives which ended up being great to help warm up some kids that were a little apprehensive of Santa at first. He was great in front of the camera, always in character and making the experience magical for the kids which really came through in the pictures. His appearance was great too, the perfect realistic and traditional Santa. We got wonderful feedback from clients who loved everything about the experience, we can’t wait to make it a yearly tradition!

Ashley Clauss . BlueBird Photography 330.260.8850

Client: Tell your Santa he did an awesome job, my Grandson saw another Santa and wouldn’t talk to him because he wasn’t the real Santa, the real Santa was yours and he told him what he wanted- Sue Schaefer

Indiana National Guard Armory in Bluffton IN 11/24/2023

Hosting a friends Thanksgiving meal at the Bluffton armory for Soldiers and their families.

An experience we will never forget

Jerry was incredible in every aspect. He was communicative, courteous, and professional. He looked like a real santa and was so patient with the children. Definitely recommend. Kaitie Karns

(A GigSalad Review)

Tara Steffen Fotos 11/24/2023

Le Chic Holiday Market 12/02/2023

Indiana National Guard Armory in Bluffton IN 11/24/2023

Thank you for being a great Santa!

Tara Steffen Tara Steffen Fotos 260.589.2728

Le Chic Holiday Market 12/02/2023

I'm a big fan of Jolly Ole Elf- Santa Jerry. He came jingling into my event with the bells on his boots and it sounded magical!

He was wonderful with the crowd, super authentic looking and a wonderfully High-class Santa. I'm booking him again for next year!

Karen Brandt

Sacred Images 12/02/23

Le Chic Holiday Market 12/02/2023

"Our Santa experience was just as amazing as normal, he is so engaging, expressive & gentle with every client, from those that screamed and wiggled to those that jumped in his lap. So thankful for his kind heart, everyone has nothing but praises for this Santa Jerry."

Thanks so much truly for all your help!

Sacred Images
Photography by Mandi
425 N 9th St.
Decatur, IN?? 46733
260-223-1137
sacred.images@hotmail.com
www.sacredimagesstudio.com

Uptown Realty Group 12/08/23

American Legion Post #43 Visit 12/09/23

They LOVED him!

We contacted “Santa” last minute as a surprise for our Agents and he came through for us!!

He was professional and interacted with the Agents! They LOVED him! He did exactly what we asked him to do and the Agents can’t stop talking about him!

Will hire him again for sure! Thank you Santa for making our Christmas party Merry and Bright!!

Tammy Fendt - UPTOWN Realty Group

260.409.2832

Photo by J Michael photography

260.402.2782

American Legion Post #43 Visit 12/09/23

"Who is that?

We have had Santa (Jerry) at the American Legion Post 43 for a couple of years and wouldn't think of hiring anyone else because he IS Santa! His entrance had every child and every adult's attention, immediately. His suit, beard, bells, smile, patience, and caring personality are so genuine. I had to chuckle when some adults asked, "Who is that?" and I answered, "SANTA!" Their response was, "YES IT IS!" with total belief. He interacted with every child and adult with such magical grace and calmness. You ARE the best Santa, Jerry. Thank you for sharing and making each feel special!

BELIEVE!

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 43

12-9-2023

Sarah's Visit 12/14/23

American Legion Post #43 Visit 12/09/23

Murray Equipment, Inc. Visit 12/16/23

THE BEST Santa!!! So kind and engaging with the kids!

We cannot recommend Jerry enough! He IS Santa!! Every detail was magical for our kids. We loved how he had a wise answer to every question and an explanation for everything! He took as much time with each kid as they wanted and asked them great questions. It is evident that he truly loves what he does. He made our kids' Christmas so special and magical, we cannot recommend him enough! Thank you again Jerry!!

Sarah Ellis (GigSalad Review)

Murray Equipment, Inc. Visit 12/16/23

FANTASTIC REAL BEARDED SANTA!!

Santa Jerry was hired again for a private company event. We initially hired Santa in 2021 for an event and was extremely pleased with him. So, in 2023 when we decided to host another private work event, we knew right away who we wanted!

As always, Santa was polite, professional, and very patient with the littles who were unsure. Santa interacted with everyone from babies to adults and simply a joy to have.

We really cannot say enough good things about him. Let all the other reviews speak for themself.

Cassandra Kline

Murray Equipment Inc.

(GigSalad Review)

Jeff's Visit 12/16/23

Murray Equipment, Inc. Visit 12/16/23

Melissa's Visit 12/16/23

Best Santa Ever !!

Jerry visited our family this past Saturday. He was outstanding! He welcomed each grandchild on his lap and made his visit a personal experience for each of them. He took photos of the kids, individual families and all the adults. He has been extremely responsive in communicating and was right on time. I would highly recommend him!

Jeff Bigelow (GigSalad Review)

Melissa's Visit 12/16/23

Murray Equipment, Inc. Visit 12/16/23

Melissa's Visit 12/16/23

You are an amazing Santa and everyone is still praising you and your Santa suit is the talk of the crowd. Happy New Year to you and yours. 😇

Melissa Rodgers (Private Review)

More 2023 Reviews

Kris's Visit 12/17/23

I had the opportunity to be visited twice by Santa aka Jerry Allen. Both times he was engaging, patient and in no rush. He gave his full Santa attention to each person he talked to. His demeanor was so professional you could not imagine him as anyone else. His Santa suit was the most beautiful and well cared for I'd ever seen. I've had the wonderful opportunity to meet many Santas through the years and he is the best.
Kris Gartner (Private Review)

Anne's Family Visit 12/17/23

Santa is a wonderful part of our Family Christmas party.

The grandkids and great grandkids truly enjoy every minute with Santa. We sing songs, they get to personally delivery their Christmas list to Santa. Santa has a lot of patience with all the family members. We have over 70 attending and 30 kids between 15- 0. Santa stays for 1 hour always on time and very professional. We have had Santa for 3-4 years. Jerry would get a 5 out of 5 on a review 🥰

Anne Ehinger (Private Review)

Jessica's Visit 12/24/23

It was awesome!!

Santa was the BEST Santa any of us have ever seen. Even Chase was impressed. You made Will’s wish come true…he had been wanting to see Santa but hadn’t felt like going to mall etc. Today was honestly not going well before that and Santa cheered us all up 🥰

Jessica Hauff (Private Review)

Ashley's Visit 12/24/23

Thank you so much for being our Santa the last 3 years! We all look forward to it so much and you are so good with all the kids!! Enjoy your day with family and loved ones!!

Call me next year (😉) and I'll get you money to hold our spot for 2024 ❤️

MERRY CHRISTMAS SANTA 🎄

Ashley Scholls (Private Review)

Erin's Visit 12/24/23

Thank you, so very much for making our 1st Christmas here in Indiana so special . I couldn't've asked for something more magical. God bless you and yours this holiday season and throughout the years to come.

Love Always

The McDowell Family (GigSalad Review)