Meet Ben Belhorn

Canvas Rebel Magazine

STORIES & INSIGHTS – (November 27th, 2023)

Link to Story at Canvas Rebel Magazine

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ben Belhorn. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ben below.

Hi Ben, thanks for joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

Becoming a professional Santa Claus has been quite a journey, and I’ve learned so much along the way. Looking back, there are several things I could have done to expedite my learning process.

My training as Santa began long before I even realized it. It was rooted in the fond memories of my own childhood experiences with Santa – visiting him at department stores, watching classic Christmas movies like “Miracle on 34th Street,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” and “The Santa Clause.” These early experiences helped shape my vision of who Santa Claus was and what I aspired to be.

In December 2020, I officially embarked on the path to becoming a professional Santa Claus. I started by searching online and stumbled upon The Worldwide Santa Claus Network, which offered a wealth of online classes, discussions, and weekly sessions. This served as the foundation for my Santa portrayal.

They say, “Clothes make the man,” and I truly believe in the power of appearances. To embody the perfect Santa, I knew I needed an exceptional Santa suit. I collaborated with a talented seamstress, and after scouring the internet for details from various Santa suits, she created a suit that perfectly matched my vision.

I’ve always had a knack for web development, graphic design, and social media – skills that are essential for the backend of any successful business. I created a logo, built a website, and promoted my Santa services through social media. With all the preparations in place, I started booking visits.

My first season in 2021 was a nerve-wracking experience, but my clients’ glowing reviews and the magical moments during visits made it all worthwhile. The genuine belief in a child’s eyes when they see Santa is an incredible feeling, and I experienced it repeatedly.

After my first season, I knew I wanted to do more and continue improving. I discovered in-person schools dedicated to the art of being Santa Claus, such as the Santa and the Business of Being Santa School and the Charles W. Howard Santa School – the world’s oldest Santa school. These schools provided valuable education and allowed me to connect with experienced Santa mentors. We share ideas, experiences, and a common goal of becoming better Santas. Our shared motto is “we’re better together,” and it holds true – when one Santa shines, it elevates the standards for all Santas.

For me, being Santa isn’t just about being a photo prop; it’s about creating a truly magical experience. I tell stories, answer questions, and share experiences with my guests, aiming to create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, that’s the story of my journey as a professional Santa Claus – filled with learning, growth, and lots of heartfelt ho-ho-ho!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’d be delighted to share more about myself and my work. I’m a professional Santa Claus, and my journey into this unique industry was driven by a deep love for the magic and joy of the holiday season, as well as a father’s love.

The inspiration to become Santa Claus came in 2017 when my youngest son came home from school and announced that there was no Santa Claus. I wasn’t ready to let go of the magic just yet, so my wife, and his two older brothers joined me in reinforcing the belief in Santa. Then, in the early hours of Christmas morning, as I was placing gifts under the tree, I had a moment of realization. I heard my son’s voice in my head, telling me there was no Santa Claus. It struck me that I could bring back the magic. I remembered an old Santa suit tucked away in our attic for over a decade. At 2 in the morning, like a determined Indiana Jones searching for treasure, I found the suit and donned it. My wife, although surprised, captured some photos from the landing above our living room. We affectionately refer to these photos as the “Bigfoot photos” because, like many Bigfoot sightings, they were blurry and out of focus. But they unmistakably featured Santa Claus in our living room, putting presents under our tree. When we shared these photos with my son the next morning, the look of wonder and belief on his face was magical. The seed had been planted, and it would grow into my journey to become Santa Claus.

My services as Santa Claus are centered around providing enchanting holiday experiences for clients of all ages, inspired by the magic my family experienced on that Christmas morning in 2017. I offer a range of services, including:

1. **Santa Claus Visits**: I provide in-person visits to homes, businesses, and events, immersing guests in the wonder of the season through stories, interactive conversations, and the classic “Naughty or Nice” check.

2. **Photography Sessions**: I collaborate with professional photographers to capture the joy and wonder of the holiday season through memorable photos with Santa.

3. **Holiday Events**: I’m available for corporate events, public gatherings, and private parties, delivering an authentic Santa Claus experience to all occasions.

4. **Storytelling and Q&A**: One of the most fulfilling aspects of my role is engaging with both children and adults, sharing stories about Santa’s adventures, and answering questions that nurture the belief in the magic of Christmas.

What truly sets me apart from others in the industry is my unwavering dedication to preserving the true spirit of Santa Claus. I place a strong emphasis on authenticity, ensuring that my appearance, demeanor, and storytelling are as genuine as possible. My extensive training, which includes attendance at reputable Santa schools, equips me to provide a magical and heartwarming experience for all my clients.

I take immense pride in my ability to create lasting memories and genuine connections with the people I meet. The moment a child’s eyes light up with wonder upon seeing Santa or an adult is transported back to their own childhood, is a truly special one. The joy and warmth I bring to people’s lives during the holiday season motivate me year after year.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that I’m committed to providing an authentic, enchanting, and memorable Santa Claus experience. I believe in spreading the joy of the season, fostering the magic of belief, and creating cherished moments that will be treasured for years to come. Whether you’re seeking to bring Santa Claus to your holiday event or capture a magical photograph, I’m here to make your holiday season truly special.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Absolutely! While specific books, videos, or essays haven’t been the primary influence on my journey as a professional Santa Claus, I’ve discovered a wealth of invaluable resources in online communities and social media groups. It’s been quite the game-changer in shaping my management and entrepreneurial mindset.

Let me break it down for you:

**Global Community**: I’ve been part of various social media groups that are all about Santa Claus portrayal and related topics. These aren’t just groups; they’re like Santa’s workshop of knowledge and camaraderie. Connecting with fellow Santas from around the world who share the same passion for portraying Santa authentically has been incredibly enlightening. It’s like a magical sleigh ride that broadens my perspective on the role, exposing me to diverse traditions and practices.

**Knowledge Sharing**: In these online communities, it’s like a treasure trove of wisdom. Members generously share their experiences, insights, and even those “oops” moments. This culture of open sharing is like Santa’s bag of gifts, filled with practical knowledge. I’ve picked up fantastic storytelling techniques, costume and makeup hacks, and creative ways to connect with both kids and adults.

**Support and Mentorship**: Within these groups, I’ve found mentors and friends who don the red suit. They’ve been like guiding stars, offering me wisdom, advice, and unwavering support. This mentorship is like Santa’s guiding light, helping me sharpen my skills and continually evolve as a Santa performer.

**State and Regional Networks**: I even took the initiative to create a state-level group, “Ohio Santas,” where nearly 150 Santas across Ohio unite in the spirit of excellence. It’s like forming a special North Pole branch. This network has become a close-knit community, allowing us to share best practices, learn from each other, and collectively become better Santas.

**Continuous Learning**: The online Santa communities emphasize the importance of never-ending learning and improvement. It’s like Santa’s workshop, where we’re always crafting better versions of ourselves. They inspire me to stay updated on industry trends, attend Santa schools, and aim for excellence in my portrayal of Santa Claus.

In a nutshell, traditional books and essays are great, but the dynamic and interactive nature of online communities and social media groups has played a significant role in shaping my management and entrepreneurial thinking. These online gatherings provide a supportive environment that nurtures creativity, encourages the sharing of knowledge, and fuels the pursuit of excellence in the world of professional Santa Claus portrayal. It’s like a magical journey that keeps on giving.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Being a Professional Santa Claus is a heartwarming and enchanting journey, and the most rewarding aspect of this role is the profound emotional connection I create with people of all ages. It’s like being the bridge between the magic of the holiday season and the hearts of those who believe.

The process of embodying the spirit of Santa Claus and bringing joy to the faces of children and adults is like turning the intangible wonder of the season into a tangible experience. It’s a bit like being a real-life holiday miracle worker, and the joy and happiness I witness in the eyes of those I meet are truly heartwarming.

As Santa Claus, I have the unique privilege of inspiring belief and spreading the magic of the season. Whether it’s igniting the spark of wonder in a child’s eyes or reminding an adult of the joy of their own childhood, my portrayal of Santa Claus has the power to create lasting memories and ignite the holiday spirit. It’s like being the keeper of timeless traditions and a source of joy for generations.

On a personal level, the journey of being Santa Claus is a path of self-discovery and growth. It challenges me to embrace the role fully, continually improve, and ensure that I bring the true spirit of Santa to every encounter. It’s like an ongoing quest to be the best Santa I can be, and the growth I experience along the way is both fulfilling and heartwarming.

As Santa Claus, I have the magical ability to capture the essence of the holiday season and make it come alive. My presence becomes a living symbol of the joy, generosity, and love that define this time of year. It’s like being a living embodiment of holiday cheer, and the impact I have on the lives of those I visit is immeasurable.

Perhaps the most fulfilling part of being Santa Claus is the simple act of bringing joy, wonder, and the belief in the magic of the season to people’s lives. My portrayal of Santa has the power to create cherished moments, lifelong memories, and the belief in the extraordinary. It’s like being the real-life Santa Claus who delivers happiness and spreads the warmth of the season.

In essence, being a Professional Santa Claus is about connecting with people, creating magical moments, and making the holiday season truly special through the authentic portrayal of Santa Claus. The rewards lie not only in the joy I bring to others but also in the joy and warmth that fills my own heart during this magical season.

Contact Info:

Website: www.SantaandYou.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/santaandyou/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SantaandYou/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SantaandYou

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@santaandyou

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/santa-and-you-reynoldsburg?osq=santa+and+you