What I Look For (and Avoid) When Shopping for a REAL Christmas Tree
As someone who loves the tradition of choosing a real Christmas tree, I’ve discovered that not all lots are created equal. Some feel more like a scene from a holiday horror movie than a place to make warm memories. After finding Santa & Sons Christmas Trees, I finally understand what great service should look like—and what red flags to avoid.
1. Honest, Clear, No-Pressure Service
I used to think Christmas tree lots were dark corners of a parking lot, with trees leaning on sawhorses and a salesman stepping out of a trailer. Prices were unclear, freshness was questionable, and the experience felt rushed.
Clear Pricing & Low-Pressure Help
Every tree at Santa & Sons is clearly priced—including optional stands. The staff is friendly, not pushy, and gives you space to browse at your own pace. When you need help, you ring one of their brass bells and someone shows up immediately.
Transparent Checkout
At checkout, everything is clear: – No hidden fees – No surprise charges – All major payment methods accepted, including tap-to-pay – Free carry-out and free tie-down service
Lifetime Stand Exchange
When you buy a stand, you get **free lifetime yearly exchanges** for a refurbished, guaranteed-not-to-leak replacement.
2. A Safe, Family-Friendly Tree Lot
When I bring my kids, I want them to feel excited—not worried.
Kid-Safe Layout
Santa & Sons’ lot is: – Clean – Well lit – Securely fenced – Built with a single entrance for safety. Hazard areas are fully blocked off, so kids can explore and play among the trees without concern.
Trusted Delivery Team
If you choose delivery, their drivers are fully vetted and background checked, which adds peace of mind.
3. Memorable Holiday Experiences
Buying a real Christmas tree should feel magical, not transactional.
Festive Activities
Santa & Sons offers touches that make the visit memorable: – Complimentary Santa photos for kids and pets – A letter-writing station and mailbox (Santa really checks it!) – Seasonal perks like candy canes, dog treats, concerts, and toy drives
It feels more like a tradition than an errand.
4. Truly Fresh, Fragrant Trees
Freshness is everything. A real Christmas tree should look and feel alive throughout the season.
Grown and Cared for by Experts
Unlike many lots that buy wholesale trees with unknown histories, Santa & Sons actually grows the trees they sell. They know exactly: – When each tree was cut – How it was cared for – How long it has been on the lot.
Displayed for Freshness
Trees are: – Standing in water – Kept under shade – Supple, hydrated, and naturally fragrant (Nordmann Fir is the exception for fragrance.)
Red Flags at Other Lots
Avoid any lot where: – Trees are sitting dry – Trees are baled and baking in the sun – Staff can’t tell you when or where the tree was cut
Those are signs of poor quality and short lifespan.
The Bottom Line
If you want a tree-buying experience that’s fresh, safe, magical, and honest, Santa & Sons has set a new standard. Once you’ve experienced a lot that genuinely cares about quality and service, it’s hard to go anywhere else.