Meet Santa Kelley
Real beard. Real joy. Real magic.
Santa Kelley Poe was born and raised in Charleston and has spent a lifetime embodying the warmth, wonder, and magic of the season. A graduate of Porter-Gaud, the College of Charleston, and most recently the prestigious Northern Lights Santa Academy, Santa Kelley brings more than just a red suit — he brings heart.
Through Dear Santa Charleston, Kelley creates immersive experiences that enchant children and delight families. Every visit is tailored, intentional, and filled with genuine connection. Whether he's sipping tea with a tutu-clad toddler or building forts with an energetic explorer, Santa Kelley meets each child where they are — making every interaction feel personal, memorable, and magical.
He’s a storyteller, a listener, a bringer of joy. And yes — he’s also a jolly, real-bearded Santa with the kind of twinkle in his eye that makes you believe.
Offerings
Santa Kelley is available by the hour for the following events:
Private Visit (Home, Neighborhood, Virtual)
Public Event (Tree Lighting, Club, HOA, School)
Commercial / Photography (Cards, Weddings, Film, Social Media)
Corporate Party or Hotel (Tea, Brunch, Bedtime Tuck-In)
Rates begin at $495/hour
Crafted with Care
From his Italian milled cashmere-blend suit to his custom cobbled boots, every detail of Santa Kelley's appearance has been thoughtfully designed by a team of industry experts — including beard grooming specialists, stylists, and theatrical consultants. But his greatest asset? A lifetime of joy, love, and compassion that he brings to every visit.
Behind the Beard
By day, Kelley serves as an executive for a national residential builder headquartered on Upper King. Off-duty, you’ll find him enjoying the Lowcountry with his wife, Melissa, and their two children: Abigail (a Clemson Tiger) and Finnegan (a firm believer in the magic of Christmas). Together, Kelley and Melissa are the heart behind Dear Santa Charleston — blending Southern hospitality, meaningful tradition, and personalized service into every experience.
Add-On Experiences
-
Santa's Sparkle Shop
Face Painting + Holiday Hair Tinsel
Let your little ones shine even brighter with a trip to Santa’s Sparkle Shop! From shimmering snowflakes to candy cane crowns, this magical add-on includes festive face painting and sparkling hair tinsel by our local glitter elf. It’s the perfect way to make your visit even more unforgettable. -
North Pole Polaroids
Retro Photo Keepsakes
Step into the golden glow of Christmas past. Our North Pole Polaroids station brings back the charm of vintage mall Santa photos — complete with a cozy backdrop, instant Polaroid prints, and a take-home photo folder. No digital files, just old-school holiday magic you can hold in your hand. -
Reindeer Receipts
Create Your Own Reindeer Treats Workshop
Calling all junior chefs and believers! This interactive station invites kids to craft their own top-secret reindeer treat recipe — with oats, sprinkles, glitter, and love. Each child leaves with a hand-stamped “Official Reindeer Receipt” to leave out on Christmas Eve.
Ready to make some magic?
We’re booking a limited number of visits this season. Request your session and Melissa will be in touch within 48 hours.
