This new tradition is replacing mall Santa photos
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Taking photos with Santa at the mall is a rite of passage for children, but that Christmas tradition is evolving.
The big picture: New Orleans moms are now booking studio sessions for a Santa experience.
- The sessions are marketed as more convenient and memorable than going to the mall. Some have add-ons, like Santa story time, cookies and pet portraits.
- And you'll pay more. Most Santa photos at Lakeside Shopping Center are $25. While some studio sessions are $25, the more elaborate ones charge several hundred dollars.
What they're saying: "I feel like young parents are craving a more personalized experience," said Marianne Sabrier, the co-owner of The Red M Studio in Metairie.
- She and her husband, Steve, started offering studio sessions with Santa four years ago.
- They are wedding and lifestyle photographers and decided to add this holiday option after hearing about Santa experiences in Texas going for $1,000.
- Sabrier had 10-minute private sessions for $200. Santa magically knew the children's interests and would go over their wishlists. Parents and grandparents loved it.
Yes, but: She didn't do them this year — in part because she felt her small business was unable to compete with what larger studios could offer families.
Zoom in: Other places are finding success with the sessions, though, and moms are quick to offer suggestions in Facebook groups for their favorite studio Santa experiences.
- Don Daigrepont Studio is known for the Santa with green gloves. They have locations in Metairie, Slidell and Mandeville this year.
- Chocolate Santa/Gentilly Santa is another New Orleans option who books quickly.
The bottom line: While more families may be booking studio sessions, it doesn't mean that mall Santas are going away.
- You'll still see long lines at Lakeside, especially the week before Christmas.