Not far from where I live, there’s a “Candy Cane Lane” that predates Eddie Murphy’s 2023 movie of the same name by over 50 years.
Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop past block after block of elaborately decorated homes, a tradition that has carried on since the 1960s.
What’s really something is how the displays have evolved from the original tungsten string lights. Many houses now feature laser light shows, hologram projectors, and armies of inflatable characters.
The tech on show is definitely impressive, and my family makes the 40-minute drive every year, parking as close as we can before taking on a lengthy walking tour. (Sometimes we’ve done the carriage ride, with our extended family and with the Graphos team.)
But our favorite outdoor Christmas display is not among the hundreds in that neighborhood. It’s a mostly handcrafted Elf (the Movie) tribute, in what’s become a mini Candy Cane Lane just walking distance from our home.
The homeowner, who dresses up as Buddy every night, made a realistic Empire State Building elevator button panel that lights up like a Christmas tree, and created a photo op board with Buddy’s costume. His house is easy to spot: look for the massive handmade red “Gimbels” sign, a green New York Subway entrance gate (without the chewing gum), a racoon and an antique Santa sleigh.
There’s even a “Welcome Santa” sign made from a dozen real Lite Bite toys, just like Buddy made in the movie. And a gift “for Someone Special” on display in the picture window.
It’s pure magic because it’s authentic, detailed and personal. Really amps up the emotions.
In I Need That, I discuss how our dog brain responds to genuine emotion more powerfully than pure spectacle.
When someone pours their creativity and passion into making something great, we feel it.
This plays out in product development too.
While technology can dazzle, it’s often the thoughtful, intentionally crafted details that create lasting connections.
The plywood cutout Grinches and reindeer that have delighted generations on Candy Cane Lane weren’t mass-produced – they were lovingly hand-built and maintained.
Action for you: What handcrafted touches could you add to your product experience? Where might authentic craftsmanship resonate more deeply than high-tech features?
Laurier
P.S. Today is my older sister’s birthday. She has a special knack for handmade things that’s inspired me all my life. ❤️