Today we’d like to introduce you to Patrick Moss.
Hi Patrick, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m Patrick E. Moss aka Santa Pat a native Houstonian with a natural beard Owner, Founder, and Actor at Black Santa | EFX, LLC.
∙Black Santa Actor, The Santa Experience 2021 – Mall of America – Bloomington, MN
∙Black Santa Actor, Cherry Hill Programs 2021 – Houston Galleria – Houston, Texas
∙Currently Inactive Member of the Houston Ebony Opera Guild Music Society
∙Performed with The Scott Joplin Chamber Orchestra 2020 – Houston, Texas
∙Former Black Santa Actor – Black Santa Houston – Christmas 2020
∙Former Private Family Live-In Child Care Provider 2015 – 2018
∙Former Manager of VIP Guest Services of the Foundation Room at the House of Blues – Houston 2008 – 2011
∙Former Supernumerary at Houston Grand Opera 2000 – 2013
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road. As you know, we were in a pandemic and I did not leave my home unless it was absolutely necessary…Most of what was ordered was done online including my groceries. During the February freeze, my pipes burst. It has taken some time to get them repaired with limited help. The resources obtained through the stimulus program and unemployment was my saving grace. Sadly, I was never approved for any local assistance. However, the sacrifices made has gotten me this far. In addition, the support from friends and followers on my social media have been blessings in disguise. Although I am not quite there yet, I still look ahead.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
After working for an agency last season, I did not get the opportunity to get photos with family and friends. I was disappointed. The bookings were private and not open to the public. I decided then to create for myself the chance to be certain that would not happen this year. So I developed an eight-month game plan and created Black Santa EFX, LLC. I would use myself as Black Santa as the product. I started by thinking of a name with the idea of being a common universal concept that could easily expand and grow with minimal changes.
Next, the idea of a logo was put into place. The aspect of the logo had to tell a narrative. I wanted to establish a memorable visual that was easy to identify and one all can relate to. The next concept was to set myself aside from being just another guy in a red Santa suit. I called on a team of seamstresses and tailors, including family, and developed multiple Santa suits in different styles and colors. The theme for the launch this past summer was “Christmas Comes in Many Colors!” This is where I officially became public with Black Santa EFX. Then I went through the process of obtaining my LLC classification and acquiring a registered agent, I ordered materials and supplies to make my Santa suits. I purchased liability insurance, Post Office Box, etc. All of the important things it takes to create a business.
My proudest accomplishment was creating Black Santa EFX to provide positive representation to the community and abroad.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
My view on risk taking is to go for it! Come up with a plan. Consider the consequences upon the outcome. Evaluate the process then execute. You may not hit the mark the first time. Regroup and develop a different strategy with hopes of getting better and different results. Start small then grow big. Know that the help you may receive might come from an unlikely source. Be grateful, humble, and definitely count your blessings.
Contact Info:
- Email: blacksantaefx@gmail.com
- Instagram: @black_santa_efx
- Facebook: @black.santa.efx
- Twitter: @black_santa_efx
Image Credits
Allison Kolafa Photography
Marty Briones
Bruce A. Fuller
