SANTAS

Elaine Roesle was born in Cincinnati and now resides in Clayton Ohio. Since childhood, she has been fascinated with European Christmas traditions, especially the evolution of St. Nicholas. Researching traditional colors and robe styles favored by different countries and cultures, Roesle created her first St. Nicholas figure in 1978.

Both Roesle’s grandmother and mother nurtured her creative talents through childhood. Her grandmother cultivated sewing skills while her mother developed her flair for painting. Coupled with her love for Christmas, Roesle’s skills naturally led her along the path to becoming one of the nation’s leading Santa makers.

Roesle’s husband of 40-years, Tony, has supported her love of creating dolls and St. Nicholas figures through the years. Together, they have traveled to Europe in search of materials to compliment her creations as well as inspiration for new designs. Roesle has two adult children and five grandchildren who also share her love of Christmas traditions. They often suggest design ideas that collectors will find in Roesle’s current portfolio.

Roesle’s St. Nicholas figures have appeared in Early American Life in 1990 and 2005. She has also been featured in Celebrate 365 and Collectors Edition magazines. She has been actively involved with the Tampa’s Flamingo Fling for the past six years. This charitable event raises money to benefit Southern Guide Dogs.