Step behind the curtain and meet the incredible team at Esher who brought this year’s enchanting Christmas theme -The Wonderful World of Oz- to life. From the sparkling Emerald City to the twinkling hot air balloons above, every detail has been imagined, built, and handcrafted by our talented creators.

NIKKI- The Creative Wizard Behind the Curtain

Nikki’s love for costume and design began as a teenager, helping the in-house designers at the Chichester Festival Theatre. Flash forward and she’s now in her tenth year designing Garsons’ Christmas displays, where she continues to push the boundaries of traditional holiday décor, bringing innovation, storytelling, and a touch of magic to every scene. For The Wonderful World of Oz, Nikki immersed herself in L. Frank Baum’s rich world, researching and reimagining his characters for a festive setting.

Nikki’s creations include: The gowns for Glinda, Dorothy, and Gayelette, Tin Man, Lion, Scarecrow, Jack Pumpkinhead, Tik Tok (crafted with help from her son!)

SARAH- The Dream Weaver of Oz

Sarah’s creative flair brings sparkle wonder to The Wonderful World of Oz. From whimsical skies to intricate characters, her work gives the display its sense of soaring adventure and festive fantasy.

Sarah’s magical touches include: Hot air balloons floating throughout the site, Glinda’s shimmering cloud, Queen Mouse and her marching Mouse Army, Tin Man, The mischievous Flying Monkeys.

THE SEASONAL TEAM- The Heart of the Emerald City

Our in-house seasonal team are the unsung heroes who keep the magic alive throughout the season. From floral artistry to daily maintenance, they take immense pride in dressing and caring for every inch of the shop floor.

Their floristry work breathes life and colour into each scene, ensuring The Wonderful World of Oz stays as fresh and dazzling as the day it opened. Stocking and maintaining the Christmas department is no small feat, and the team rises to the challenge every day with festive cheer.

JAMIE, NICK & NICK- The Guardians of the Sky

New to the Garsons Christmas crew this year, this talented trio have joined forces from separate Garsons departments to elevate the magic! Responsible for high-level installations and light hanging, Jamie, Nick, and Nick help bring the wonder of Oz to new heights. From twinkling treetops to glowing overhead displays, holograms and more, they’ve literally taken Christmas at Garsons to the next level.

ALASTAIR & JASON- The Builders of Oz

Our in-house maintenance duo, Alastair and Jason, are the true builders of The Wonderful World of Oz. From Dorothy’s house at the entrance to Santa’s grotto and all the lands in between, their craftsmanship is visible everywhere you look. They’ve built, painted, hung, and engineered the world our visitors step into.

Without their dedication and skill, the magic of Christmas simply wouldn’t happen.

Together, this incredible team has turned imagination into reality, creating a Christmas journey through The Wonderful World of Oz that delights and inspires all who journey along the yellow brick road. Visit us and explore it for yourself!