Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Jim Bickal

What it takes to be a Santa Claus stand-in

Santa's Belt
Being a good Santa Claus stand in involves more than just putting on a red suit and a white beard.
Nikki Tundel | MPR News 2014

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

This story first aired in December 1995.

What does it take to stand in for Santa Claus? In 1995, then-"Morning Edition" host Bob Potter learned the answer from a professional.

MPR marks 50 years
• More stories from the archives
• Join the celebration, tell us your story

Mickey Michlitsch, owner of Santa Claus and Company in St. Paul, got Potter suited up, gave him a little training and then brought him to a preschool to meet some kids.

"Looks like we're going to need a little bit of padding, but that's going to be fine," Michlitsch said before fitting Potter with a fake belly, complete with a pouch to be stuffed as necessary.

Potter was also given a belt, beard and instructed in the proper way to "Ho ho ho."

"You want to remember that Santa's a little older, so you might want to lower your voice a bit, get a little gravelness in it, OK, when you're talking with the kids," Michlitsch said.

Another tip for any wannabe Santas: Don't go right to, "What do you want for Christmas?" Start with some small talk.

"'Oh that's a pretty ribbon you have in your hair!' Compliment them," Michlitsch said. "Try to stay away from talking about mom and dad, because there are a lot of single families right now."