Santa Spotlight: ABC Home
There’s a mix of excitement and pressure to make your baby’s first Christmas special. It doesn’t help that most moms are killing it on Instagram with their crafty ornaments, matching pjs, and color coordinated Christmas trees. Real talk, I still haven’t put up our Christmas tree and barely have sent out our Christmas cards. I’m not a grinch… just a new mom merely trying to catch some Zzzs whilst optimistically planning all the holiday things we’re suppose to do. The list of holiday activities has probably doubled in the last few years (ugly Christmas sweater cookie decorating, for example) and got this newbie wondering: can you ice-skate with a baby? And/or is gingerbread house making equally or more stressful with a five month old?
In the midst of my (serious) dilemma, I came to the conclusion that at the very least this Christmas, we could take pictures with Santa. Which meant that I was on the serious hunt for a great photo op. We considered the mall Santas but once I saw Eva Chen’s story featuring ABC Home’s gorgeous Santa, I was sold. Even though, this meant hauling the entire family into NYC for a questionable wait time. To celebrate our first Santa meeting, I also booked brunch reservations at ABC Kitchen, spoiler alert: it was so worth it!
Here’s what you need to know:
1. This ain’t your typical Santa
Remember how I called this Santa “gorgeous”? Make no mistake, this Santa fits perfectly with the general aura of ABC Home. The getup on this Santa is not like your typical polyester red and white suit. But rather, a whimsical dark salmon and worn ivory ensemble that blows all other Santas out of the water. Plus, the backdrop like a perfect Christmas corner of your dream living room. Definitely something that Hallmark wouldn’t produce but only could be found in New York’s premier home decor store. So if you’re looking for an unique Santa experience and/or connect to exquiste home decor on a deeper level, this is your Santa photo Op. Plus, it’s FREE (& one delicious lollipop included)
2. Clear your schedule
We first tried to visit Santa before our brunch reservation at 11:30 AM. However, the line was just too long… we were vaguely quoted 45 minutes upwards to an 1 hour even after waiting for a good 15 minutes. So we bumped up our reservation, and decided to eat before the photos. This was key in preserving our mood and getting to see Santa without a long line.
Once our bellies were full and time was not a issue, I sent the good ‘ole husband to wait while we shopped around. Luckily, the line was significantly shorter and within a 20 minute wait, we snapped our pictures. I’d definitely recommend trying to go at prime lunch time around 12 PM or expect to wait. From what I heard, the line moves fast. Except, when you’re waiting in between Santa’s break periods. Final note: you’ll have to wait outside so be sure to bundle up or have one person brave the weather while the family peruses the store.
3. Paparazzi, yes please!
Since this is a free photo opportunity, you are responsible for taking your picture. This is one possible drawback if you’re not the best at taking photos. So, I’d definitely recommend bringing one of your nicer cameras (rookie mistake: we forgot ours at home) and if possible, an additional person to take your photos. If not, many people asked the families before or after them to help out– people are willing! I’d ask before you head up, so your photographer is ready and not caught off guard.
4. Book Brunch
ABC Home & Kitchen will always hold a tender spot in my heart. My mother and I had one of my favorite dates there in April while I was pregnant with Wilder. Not to mention, ABC Kitchen is delicious and every. single. thing. we have tried has always been incredible. Since we were making the trip, we wanted to grab brunch as well. I’m so glad we did because the brunch menu is superb. We ordered (& loved) the scrambled eggs with fried oysters and hot sauce butter, French toast with caramel apples, mushrooms and fried egg pizza and a side of buttermilk cheddar biscuits. They never disappoint and visiting Santa is a perfect reason (or excuse) to book a reservation!
Before it’s too late…
If you’re like me and trying to find last minute (but worth it) holiday activities with the family, go pay a visit to this Santa and store. Even a stroll around the store will bring out the holiday feels. Rumor has it that this will be the last year of the Santa (not confirmed but just to keep in mind) so don’t hesitate and go even if you’re a little interested! The last chance for this year will be this Saturday (the 22nd) from 10am- 3pm. If the tree doesn’t go up and all else fails, at least I’ll have my baby’s Santa photos and proof that I’m not a “bah humbug”… right?