Santa Brings His Workshop to Marco

Santa’s Workshop came south to Florida on Tuesday, December 16th at the Marco Island Area Association of Realtors (MIAAOR) office for the first of its kind Sip N’ Shop event for parents and children alike.  

Fourteen of Santa’s best elves volunteered for the evening,comprised of affiliate, realtor, and staff members of the association, creating Christmas magic for over 20 local families who were in need of a little extra help this holiday season. 

Upon arrival, children and parents checked in, made a festive cup of hot cocoa, and began to pick out their gifts. Children were able to shop for one gift for Dad and one gift for Mom from stocked tables of choices. They could then get their presents wrapped by friendly elves with lots of ribbons and bows.  

While their parents shopped for just the right gift, the children took part in a holiday craft, preparedreindeer food,watched a Christmas movie, and even created their own candy goodie bag to take home. 

In the lobby after shopping, the families enjoyed colorful Christmas cookies, a refreshing beverage, and even a bite to eat with a very special guest – Santa himself!  

Families who shopped were kindly asked to bring an item of food to be donated to local food banks. 

This was the first year MIAAOR hosted this event. “It was just an idea that Caroline Charde and I had. It was something different,” said Kandy Sweeney, MIAAOR Chief Executive Officer. After being unable to take part in the YMCA’s Oktoberfest event, Sweeneysaid they wanted to do something for the public.  

“Everyone really came together to make this happen,” said newly MIAAOR President Jacki Strategos. 

They spread the word on social media, placed a few ads in the paper, and included 150 flyersin food pantry bags distributed byOur Daily Bread Food Pantry.  

The response from those wanting to take part was inspirational. From donations to items brought in, the community unitedwith Christmas Spirit to make Santa’s Workshop happen. 

“It was absolutely wonderful and heartwarming to see the smiles on the kids' faces, especially when Santa arrived,” said a smiling Caroline Charde, Communications and Education Director for MIAAOR.  

MIAAOR looks forward to hosting the event again next holiday season and encourages anyone interested to keep an eye on their website and Facebook page for more information.