The lobby of the Santa Ynez Valley Marriott is aglow with the efforts and toys of its employees. Jack Schlichting, food and beverage manager, organized and facilitated the display. “We discovered he had a knack for it,” says Michael Hendrick, Marriott general manager. All of the employees were invited to participate by bringing in their favorite toys, stuffed animals and wrapped holiday boxes. From Santa’s mailbox as you enter, to the religious-themed main stairwell, to the decked trees in their restaurant – bright, warm and welcoming is the spirit, if not the theme, of the year-end décor.
– Photos and Report by SaraLloyd Truax