Santas study up as time for a little ho-ho-ho arrives

Originally published November 22, 2012
By Alan Berner – Seattle Times staff photographer

EXCERPT: To prepare for the Thanksgiving-to-Christmas rush, more than two dozen professional Santas, a couple of Mrs. Clauses and one Grinch recently met at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound in Lewis County, to discuss etiquette and handling inevitable situations. There’s so much more to being Santa than a full beard, a full body and some hearty ho-ho-hos.

For photos, it’s hee-hee-hee to ensure a proper  smile.

To prepare for the Thanksgiving-to-Christmas rush, more than two dozen professional Santas, a couple of Mrs. Clauses and one Grinch recently met at the Great Wolf Lodge in Grand Mound, Thurston County, to discuss etiquette and handling inevitable situations.

Almost all are seasoned pros with real beards and their own suits. Trever Waltos, the youngest Santa, needed additional padding he bought online.

From now until Christmas, no garlic, says Waltos, co-organizer of the workshop. “Santa needs to have fresh breath.” Peppermint candy is the aroma of Christmas.

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