Photos with Santa

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

Historically, Photos with Santa were hosted as part of a 700-person clubhouse brunch. When ongoing construction eliminated access to all indoor facilities, we were challenged to preserve this cherished holiday tradition while still accommodating our membership in a safe and thoughtful way. Rather than cancel the event, we reimagined it as an outdoor, parking-lot–based Photos with Santa experience. Members parked and walked up to a festive Santa setup, allowing families to enjoy personal photo moments in an open-air environment. This approach maintained the magic of the tradition, supported strong participation, reduced logistical limitations, and delivered a meaningful holiday experience despite significant space constraints.

This initiative demonstrates that meaningful member experiences do not require traditional facilities. By rethinking available space, focusing on thoughtful details, and prioritizing accessibility and hospitality, the club was able to deliver a high-impact event even during construction. The outdoor, parking-lot–based format allowed for creativity, scalability, and inclusivity, while strategic vendor partnerships and complimentary offerings elevated the overall experience. Most importantly, maintaining this beloved tradition reinforced member connection and showed how flexibility and intention can turn constraints into memorable opportunities.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

The event was offered as a complimentary experience, welcoming members to bring family and friends to enjoy the holiday celebration together. The parking lot was transformed into a whimsical holiday scene, with Santa “flown in from the North Pole” and staged in an outdoor sleigh setting for walk-up photos. The child experience was elevated through thoughtfully curated goody bags, including holiday crafts personally handed out by Santa, while guest comfort and accessibility were ensured with luxury, ADA-accessible portable restrooms on site. Adult guests enjoyed a pop-up holiday bar featuring mimosas, Bloody Marys, and the club’s signature seasonal cocktail, The Grinch, while a partnered outside vendor provided complimentary, made-to-order custom coffee drinks for all members. A festive hot cocoa bar with an assortment of toppings, paired with fresh-baked donuts, rounded out the experience.

Members expressed sincere appreciation for continuing to feel connected to the club despite the lack of traditional facilities. Feedback consistently highlighted how thoughtful, well-executed, and welcoming the event felt, with many noting that it exceeded expectations and delivered a meaningful holiday experience for both families and guests.