Today we’d like to introduce you to Cyril Jolly.
Hi Cyril, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Almost a decade ago now I came across my first Santa Suit, but truth be told growing up near New York City and traveling with my family to see the Radio City Hall Christmas Spectacular is where my dream to be Santa Claus began. I started by specializing as a Santa for children and adults with disabilities. These days my Santa career combines volunteering for events supporting peoples with disabilities and youth in the foster care system while also doing private events and I truly love being in the “Red Chair” at one of our local stores. Being Santa allows me, and my wife as Mrs. Claus to spread Joy and Hope. Whether it is holding a 4-week old and taking their first picture with Santa, sharing a blessing with a family facing life-threatening medical condition, or simply smiling and laughing with the children who just want Santa to bring them their favorite new toy, being Santa is a ministry and a gift.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Navigating the Santa industry takes time and energy. Building connections, finding people you trust to work with, finding great photographers, building sets, and putting on the suit is just the beginning of the journey to being Santa. At this point in my career I’m hopeful to start find off-season work like photoshoots and commercials.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Being a “Classic/Vintage” Santa. Not wearing a super flashy suit but looking cleaned up and JOLLY. Being able to chat with people in a variety of languages and taking time every year to learn about the hottest and even not-so hot toys so that when I’m spending time with people it is authentic. When you only have 30-120 seconds of time with someone you REALLY want them to know they are loved and appreciated and that their time truly matters to you.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Growing up in our small town in Eastern Pennsylvania our town’s Fire Department used to work with parents to setup a special toy delivery each season. Of course with out the children knowing, parents would take wrapped presents to the local fire station and then one night Santa would show up outside our house in a fire truck! Santa came into our living room spent a few minutes with us taking pictures, chatting, and giving us our gift. Truly a memory I hope to never forget.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://santaclauscyril.com
- Instagram: santaclauscyril
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/santaclauscyril
- Other: https://www.gigsalad.com/santa_claus_cyril_durham
