Re: Checking in With You About Christmas Traditions

Hey, friend — just checking in.

How are your Christmas traditions shaping up this year?
Are you feeling excited, overwhelmed, a little bit of both?

Wherever you’re at, you’re not alone.

Every year around this time, I find myself thinking:
What traditions are we holding onto?


And are they still bringing us joy—or just adding to the noise?

Maybe this year, it’s time to revisit the simple, meaningful traditions that actually make Christmas feel magical.

Why Traditions Matter (Even the Small Ones)

Traditions don’t have to be big or elaborate to matter.
Sometimes the smallest rhythms leave the deepest marks.

They create:

  • Rhythms of belonging our kids can count on

  • Anchors of joy during a busy, noisy season

  • Memories that tie childhood to a feeling of wonder and warmth

It’s not about doing all the things.
It’s about doing the right things for your family in this season.

Keywords woven: Family traditions, Christmas memories, childhood experiences, Christmas photo album

A Private Santa Experience: The Tradition That Changed Everything

A few years ago, we decided to start a new tradition:
Instead of battling mall crowds and rushing through a five-minute Santa visit, we booked a private Santa experience.

It was cozy.
It was slow.


It was full of real smiles, whispered Christmas wishes, and the kind of magic you can’t manufacture in a crowded line.

It wasn’t just about the photos.


It was about:

  • Letting our kids feel seen and heard by Santa

  • Creating space for real connection

  • Capturing memories without pressure or chaos

Now, it’s one of our favorite family traditions—something the kids look forward to every single year.

Keywords woven: Santa Claus pictures, private Santa experience, Visit Idaho, Boise Idaho Christmas

How You Can Start (It’s Easier Than You Think)

If you’re still figuring out what your Christmas traditions look like this year, here’s a simple place to start:

  • Choose one thing that feels joyful, not stressful.

  • Protect it—put it on the calendar.

  • Let go of the pressure to do everything else.

Whether it’s booking a private Santa session, starting a new Christmas Eve breakfast tradition, or taking a snowy stroll to look at lights—the tradition is less about what you do and more about how it feels.

Final Thoughts: The Best Traditions Start Small

This is your reminder that you don’t have to earn Christmas magic by overfilling your calendar.


You don’t have to chase every event or every Pinterest idea.

You can build a tradition around one cozy moment.


One slow morning.
One simple act of wonder.

And you might just find—years from now—that it’s the tradition they treasure most.



little boy with santa reading the nice list in his parlor in downtown meridian idaho

Reserve Your Santa Encounter Today!

Call/Text now (208) 863-0187

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Capture the Magic of Christmas! ✨🎄

Make this holiday season unforgettable with a Private Santa Experience and photo session! Immerse your family in the wonder of Christmas and create timeless memories with Gem State Christmas. Santa is waiting to share magical moments with your little ones. Cherish the joy of the season and capture it forever. Book your Santa Encounter now and make this Christmas truly magical!

Reserve Your Santa Encounter Today!

Call now (208) 863-0187

Thee Picture Collage of two little boys building toys with Santa in his magic workshop
Little girl sleeping in Santa's Chair while santa holds a lantern over her.
Little boy holding a present as Santa standing in the doorway behind him to surprise him
little boy tugging santa's real beard in santa parlor in downtown meridian idaho
Little girls, sisters in matching PJ's sitting in Santa's chair as Santa is standing behind them for a perfect photo opportunity

Season's Greetings!

Seasons Greetings from our team at Gem State Christmas. Hi! We are Elizabeth and Amber, Co-Founders of Gem State Christmas. Located in Downtown Meridian, Idaho. We are two friends, creatives, dreamers and Christmas fanatics bringing Idaho the most unique and currated Holiday Traditions. From decorating for the Holidays, entertaining your guest, to private visits with the jolly man in red himself we are excited to highlight all things Christmas for the beautiful Gem State.


Speaking of Santa... You can learn all about our Exclusive 60 Minute Santa Encounter here 👇🏼

Santa Coloring Pages - free download

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