I awoke around 5am this morning feeling a little “frantic”. My mind began to race of all the things I need to do in order to be ready for the upcoming season. A fellow Santa had shared a few days ago about a promo photoshoot he had recently done. He had thought that he was fully prepared and felt pretty good going into the session. After all he had secured working with a new photographer, having shared all that he could do and offer. This included the use of various interactive props during their session. This changed when he pulled out his light-up “magic” book. When it did not light up it hit him. He had forgotten to charge it.

This did not stop him from impressing the photographer and her children. However, he was a bit disappointed in himself for having forgotten to charge it. After all he prides himself on always being ready, and had talked specifically about this very prop. This served as a reminder to him and he brought it up as a reminder to the rest of us.

So here I was this morning thinking about it. I poured my coffee and went straight to work creating a pre event and post event checklist. It is simple and serves as a quick glance guide. I have had many Santas share about the small things they have forgotten over the years. From glasses, to their hats, packs and other items.

These “cheat sheets” may not be fully complete, and I will add to it as I think of what else needs to be on it. It will certainly help me in being prepared for the season. After I finished creating them I shared them in a group of Santas that I belong to. Hopefully, this will help each of us to remember the small details of our portrayal and to be prepared for our events.

Father Christmas of the Three Mountains