We had the good fortune of connecting with Patrick Moss and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Patrick, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process behind me starting my own business was being creative in my own right and protecting what was mine. Working under someone else limited my ideas and restrained me from being visually expressive. The concept of bringing my visions to life would only happen if I could develop them myself. At that point I saw fit to build a brand and create Black Santa EFX, LLC.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Part of what sets me apart from others is the authenticity of my presentation. I am a natural bearded Black Santa. Some of my wardrobe consists of fabric shipped directly from Ghana, West Africa. The designs were attached to enhance the appearance of the Santa suit and capture the essence of Black culture. I am most proud that I have completed my first children’s book, “A Best Friend’s Christmas!” Follow my social media platforms for details to purchase.

I reached this point in my success by creating a strategic game plan, following through, and not giving in. The journey was not easy because I have done it all on my own terms. I overcame challenges by persevering. Lessons I have learned keep reoccurring. One lesson that happens to be prevalent is that your closest friends may not be your biggest supporters.

I would love for the world to know that Black Santa EFX is here to bring joy to the hearts of many both young and old! Stay tuned!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you were to visit my beloved city of Houston area, here are some of the places I would recommend you visit. I’d start with breakfast in Midtown at The Breakfast Klub. Hands down the best breakfast in town. Then a visit to The Houston Museum of Natural Science would be rewarding. The newly renovated Butterfly Cockrell Center is exquisite. A visit to the Color Factory Houston would be fun. It’s a unique space filled with immersive installations.

Houston has two of the newest classiest restaurants that I suggest you make time to dine. Check out The Warwick. They specialize in New American cuisine fine dining. RockHouse Southern Kitchen would definitely be the other choice. An added bonus when you catch their live entertainment.

For a bit of beachfront fun, take a short drive south to Galveston, Texas, for the day. But don’t stop there. Take the ferry over to Port Bolivar and drive straight up to the beach. Avoid the crowds on the main island and find peace and privacy. Just remember to purchase a beach parking permit and clean your mess!

Houston African American Center (Museum) would be another place to explore. It is always free but donations are accepted. Check their hours of operations. They are only open Thursdays through the weekend.

The city has a lot to offer. Check out things to do and find what suits you!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to express my sincerest appreciation to all of those who believe in me and truly support my efforts. Erica Bryant, Allison Kolafa Gama, Martin Briones, Bill Vahrenkamp, The Santa Experience Minnesota and Samantha Austin Davis I will forever be indebted to you. Your work behind the camera boosted my confidence to know that it could happen and I could do it!

Website: www.blacksantaefx.com

Instagram: @black_santa_efx

Linkedin: Pat Moss

Twitter: @Black_Santa_EFX

Facebook: Black.Santa.EFX

Yelp: Black Santa EFX

Other: Snapchat: Black_Santa_EFX TikTok: @black_santa_efx

Image Credits
Erica Bryant – Houston, Texas Allison Kolafa Photography – Humble, Texas Albertex Photography – Mansfield, Texas Martin Briones – Santa Fe, Texas

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.