The Real Elf on 'Shark Tank': What is the cost, who is the founder and here's how you can get an Elfie
After a break of two weeks, 'Shark Tank' is all set to make a comeback with a special holiday-themed episode. So, get ready to watch entrepreneurs pitch some fun and witty holiday-themed products and services that might leave you exclaiming "Oh man! Why didn't I think of that", or "this is genius, I can't wait to get my hands on it." Whether you're looking for an inspiration for the next big festive-themed product/ service, or for some great gifting ideas in the eleventh hour, 'Shark Tank' has got you covered.
The Real Elf is one such holiday-themed service that is all set to make its big debut on the award-winning ABC Show. Clad in a bright red onesie and a Santa hat, The Real Elf founder Tommy Holl will be attempting to spread some joy and festive spirit inside the tank and get the Sharks into the festive mood. Will this festive Elf be able to impress the Sharks Mark Cuban, Barbara Corcoran, Kevin O’Leary, Lori Greiner and Daymond John? We will have to watch the episode for that, but in the meanwhile, if you're interested in knowing more about Tommy and his business, then keep reading.
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What is The Real Elf?
Remember how when we were children the holiday season was the best time of the year? We got to go to a nearby mall and get a fun picture with the Santa and hoping that we made it on Santa's nice list in order to receive presents? Well, The Real Elf is the modern-day version of it. In this day and age of social media, The Real Elf turned the whole holiday picture thing into a digital business venture. With The real Elf you can get your very own "Elfie" clicked with Tommy dressed as an elf and post it on your Instagram.
Tommy also does pop-up events where people can go and get an "Elfie" with him for a small fee. Aside from the elfies, you can also purchase various elf-themed merchandise or get personalized digital elf greeting videos from Tommy called Elf Gram. So, if you're looking for fun way to make this holiday season even more memorable, then look no further than The Real Elf.
Who is the founder?
Tommy Holl aka the self-appointed Head of Public Relations for the North Pole’s Midwest Division of Holiday Cheer is the founder of The Real Elf. He travels across Chicago spreading the Christmas spirit and making sure that everyone is on Santa's nice list. In case you're wondering how Tommy came up with this unique business idea, then the brand's website throws light on it. According to the website, Tommy studied broadcast journalism at Columbia College, and went on to intern at NBC5 News, and eventually worked in advertising, sales, and even a plastic surgeon's office. During the 2012 holidays, while searching for an idea for an office Christmas card, friends pointed out his resemblance to a certain shelf-dwelling Christmas sprite, inspiring Tommy to don his now-famous red onesie and pointy hat.
In 2013, Tommy was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called Epithelioid sarcoma, a rare but serious form of cancer that affects only 1 of every 2.5 million people. Its tumors start in the extremities such as fingers and toes, and the only successful treatment is amputation. Although Tommy is currently cancer-free, he lost a pinky finger in the battle. After this, he decided to live his life to the fullest, and in 2014 he decided to do everything he could to spread love and laughter around him and this gave birth to The Real Elf.
Aside from his elf duties, Tommy also dabbles as the Chief Global Growth Officer at Publicis Media, a global digital ad agency.
What is the cost and where can you get your Elfie clicked?
You can get your very own Elfie by either attending one of the several pop-up events organized by Tommy or even hire him for a private event if you're in the Illinois area. In case you aren't in Illinois but are keen on getting an Elfie, then you can check out Elf Gram, where Tommy will record a personalized video for you or your loved one and send it via Google drive for a fee of $50.
Where is The Real Elf now?
When Tommy was fighting cancer, he received care from Imerman Angels - a volunteer organization providing free one-on-one support for cancer fighters, survivors, and their caregivers. After recovery, Tommy became an Imerman Angel mentor himself, providing friendship and solidarity to other cancer patients. "It can be a hard conversation to have and you don't know why sometimes," he states. "I've learned that it's so easy to isolate yourself and not ask for help, and at the same time you're putting yourself more at risk." "Tommy is proud that his profile as The Real Elf not only allows him to help raise cancer awareness but also much-needed funds in direct support of Imerman," states the website.
Who will steal the deal?
Although the Sharks appeared to have a blast with The Real Elf pitch, we aren't sure if any of them were ready to invest in it. But there's no telling with the Sharks, if The Real Elf has great sales and profit margins, then the Sharks might happily invest in it. So, we will just have to wait and watch to see if the Sharks even make a deal.
'Shark Tank' Season 13 Episode 8 returns after its two weeks break to ABC on December 10, 2021, at 8 pm ET. Catch the latest episode featuring products like Ornament Anchor,
Santa's Enchanted Mailbox, Wendy's Gnome Shop, and Th Real Elf.
Missed an episode? Been wanting to catch up? Episodes can also be viewed the next day on demand and on Hulu. Not just that, you can also watch old seasons and episodes on Amazon Prime Video and iTunes.