The Layered Style of New York’s Christmas Tree Sellers
As the winter chill sets in, the streets of New York come alive with festive cheer and vibrant colors. At the heart of this celebration are the Christmas tree sellers who dot neighborhoods from the West Village to Hell’s Kitchen, their unique styles adding layers to the city’s holiday tapestry. These vendors, hailing from places as far-flung as Quebec, Vermont, and beyond, bring not only firs and Fraser trees but also a colorful array of personal flair.
The Art of Selling Trees
On Christopher and Hudson in the West Village, two women named Millie and Mary sit in their red-and-green shed, open to all. The door serves not just as an entryway but a canvas for wishful thoughts penned in blue Sharpie—ranging from love and success to Taylor Swift tickets.
Millie and Mary: A Quebecois Duo
- Made their way down from Quebec after Thanksgiving to sell trees for five weeks.
- Their shed, a makeshift home, is adorned with handcrafted ornaments ranging in price from a whimsical “between a dollar and a million.”
- Known for their colorful style, they accessorize with gems on Mary’s teeth and mix-match Carhartt overalls with vibrant hues.
A Tradition Rooted in History
The tradition of selling Christmas trees in New York dates back to 1851 when Mark Carr began his venture on Greenwich and Vesey streets. Over the years, while much has changed in the city, the process of buying a tree remains remarkably consistent.
Modern-Day Tree Sellers
- Hans Aubert at 57th Street and Ninth Avenue represents one of many who continue this legacy.
- Sellers like Gabe Tempesta, an artist by passion, sell trees to support his painting endeavors. He’s been in the trade for over a decade and plans to grow his own Christmas tree stock.
From Temporary Stalls to Year-Round Passion
The Christmas tree business attracts not just seasonal workers but also those whose love for the craft spans decades. Vermont’s Billy Romp, a fixture on Jane Street and Eighth Avenue since 1985, has become an iconic figure in New York’s holiday scene.
Greg Walsh: A Lifetime of Trees
- Born and raised in Queens, Greg found his calling as a tree seller at 18 after a chance encounter.
- Now running seven locations under the banner of Greg’s Trees, he’s renowned for organizing community events like tree-lighting ceremonies.
- Despite personal challenges, Walsh continues to embody the spirit of the holidays with a hearty “ho ho ho.”
The Personal Touch in Every Tree Stand
Each tree stand offers a glimpse into its vendors’ personalities. From custom-made hats worn by employees of SoHo Trees to handmade ornaments sold at Le Chic Shack on 73rd and Broadway, the sellers make their presence known.
Innovative and Unique Stands
- SoHo Trees on Varick Street boasts a team dressed in camouflage cargo pants for long outdoor shifts.
- The Tin Building location features Rob Walsh, who adds his own flair with distinctive attire.
As the winter season approaches its peak, these vendors not only provide holiday essentials but also bring warmth and color to the city. Their diverse styles and stories contribute significantly to New York’s vibrant Christmas spirit, making each tree sale an encounter with culture, history, and creativity.