A Jolly Good Time Set for November
Gwen Akers
The Ashland Beacon
Christmas is coming in November at Sunshine Soul Photography in Ashland, Ky.
Ever since their first Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus went over so well in 2018, Jammie Adams has continued that tradition, and this year is celebrating the 5th anniversary of the Free Photos with Santa event. This year’s celebration is set to occur on Nov. 18, from 3 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on the 3rd floor of the Camayo Arcade.
“I started it [the pictures] wanting to have something for kids and especially [for] people that may not have the means to go and have commercialized photos done,” explained Adams. “I wanted to offer something fun and free for families to come in, and get their photo with Santa.”
A hot chocolate bar, kid-friendly crafts and activities, story time and special time with Santa and Mrs. Claus are just a few of the perks of the event — and it will definitely be a “jolly good time.” After visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, each child will receive a gift or treat from the two.
Adams is the owner and founder of Sunshine Soul Photography. She has been in Ashland for three and a half years and came up with the idea of Photos with Santa from watching parents unable to get their children’s picture with Santa due to cost. Adams hated that such an integral part of the Christmas experience was littered with obstacles. Coupled with her love for photography and the Christmas season, Adams came up with the free event.
“Last year, we had a line all the way down three flights of steps, down my hallway, out the front door to the arcade,” detailed Adams. “It's a pretty big, fun event. We always have a good time with it.”
Completely run by volunteers, and featuring both Santa and Mrs. Claus who are past teachers — the photos are meant to be a great experience for the children present. Santa Claus himself was Adams’s own 5th-grade teacher at Coal Grove Elementary School and now spends his time bringing light to the season.
Chastity Pennington has known Adams for around 11 years and has been helping her with the Picture with Santa event since its beginning. In her past work experience as well as her current job as a site manager at a daycare, Pennington is well aware of just how difficult Christmas can be for low-income families. She could not be more thankful that she and Adams are able to help these families and give them the Christmas they deserve.
“She [Adams] has put her heart and soul into this,” glowed Pennington. “This is 100% free, and she tries to make it the best for everybody.”
Last year, over 400 children were in attendance, and this year they are forecasting close to 1,500 children and families. Children will have the chance to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and will be able to talk to them besides just getting their picture taken. Adams expressed that in years past, children have even brought lists to read to Santa and Mrs. Claus, or simply just spent their time asking them questions about the season.
“It’s not just a wait in line, get a photo, leave, quick kind of thing. They get to take their time with Santa and talk to him if they want to,” commented Adams. “I think the whole experience in itself is what makes the event what it is every year.”
The goal is that each child has a memorable and jolly time that will make even Frosty the Snowman smile. To come see for yourself, come check out the most wonderful event of the year on the third floor of the Camayo Arcade on Nov. 18!