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 for:

• Private in-home visits (family or neighborhood)

• Hotel and club appearances

• Corporate holiday parties

• Wedding proposals or new pet deliveries

• Christmas card photo sessions (starting in September)

• Virtual video calls for far-away friends and family

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.