If you listen closely, you can still hear the laughter of children running on pure sugar, bells jingling as camera lights flash, Christmas wishes being whispered into the mindful ears of Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the good old holiday classics playlist still on repeat in the background. A cadence of holiday yule tide carrying us through the day.
On a chilly, early December morning, moms and dads, grandparents, and family friends all gathered at The Hawthorn for St. Louis Mom’s Fifth Annual Donuts with Santa! This new event venue opened its doors just as the sun was peeking over the top of the cityscape to welcome the hustle and bustle of crafters, makers, established businesses, and entrepreneurs alike as they set up their stations and goods. Donuts were hand-delivered by Santa’s helper. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived safely, sleigh parked high on the rooftop, and they were very excited to say hello to all the families who joined us. These precious memories were captured on camera by the talented Kelly Laramore Photography.
Within this event, there were so many hidden gems to note. There was a storytime hosted in the morning and afternoon – Ballet 314 dancers brought along their storybook, gave graceful dance demonstrations, and posed for a photo with every little fan who came to greet them. Our friend, Keona, niece of author Kimesha Malone, hosted storytime in the afternoon bringing along so many wonderful books, including Malone’s “Santa Meets the Tooth Fairy.”
Little ones (and big kids, too!) created the most darling, colorful fingerprint ornaments courtesy of our friends at Play Street Museum. A keepsake that every family tree needs! Especially when those little fingers are little no more.
Omen Coffee Co. made sure to have the freshest, hottest brew ready to fuel parents as they followed their energetic families around the ins and outs of Donuts with Santa.
Gateway Events had the sweetest hot chocolate ready for each and every visitor through the door. A hint of peppermint and a dollop of cream are what Christmas dreams are made of!
This event was made magical with the generosity of our sponsors: Little Sunshine’s Playhouse & Preschool, Foss Swim School, The Repertory Theatre, The College School, and The Mabel Reserve! And thank you to the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra for ensuring we had the tastiest donuts around!
Please remember to shop small and support local this holiday season and all year long. We strive to bring you the best, newest, and most loved local businesses that are passionate about their mission, their product, and supporting families all over St. Louis and beyond. Without them, our Holiday Shop would not have been so merry:
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The White Bounce House of St. Louis
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Chesterfield Service
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Cardinal Orthodontics
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Tee & Cookies STL
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Brixx & Stones
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Skin & Wicks
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Lass & Laddie
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Wrapped + Written
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Focus Group by Schlesinger
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Play Street Museum
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Butter Love Skin
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Come Play STL
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Heathered Rose Boutique
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SoapLife 360
From all of us at St. Louis Mom, have a wonderful December in good health and good spirits. Thank you, and see you at next year’s Donuts with Santa!
