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Vanessa Bryant is bringing the holiday spirit to life in her home, and this year, her Elf on the Shelf display is stealing the show. Taking to Instagram, she shared a delightful scene of her elves dressed to impress, complete with adorable crocheted Kobe-inspired sneakers—an unmistakable nod to her late husband, Kobe Bryant.
The photos show two elves wearing festive red and white outfits. One wears a red shirt with a plaid jumper or pants, adding a classic Christmas vibe. The other has a red outfit accented with a white collar and a brooch detail, giving her a more decorative look. The smaller baby elves are in traditional Christmas colors, too—one is dressed in red, and the other has a green and white outfit, matching the holiday theme.
© Vanessa BryantThe male elf appears to be wearing crocheted red and black sneakers resembling Kobe Bryant's iconic Mamba basketball shoes. These mini sneakers stand out as a personalized and creative detail in the scene.
The Story Behind Elf on the Shelf
The Elf on the Shelf tradition began in 2005 with the release of "The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition," written by Carol Aebersold and her daughter, Chanda Bell. The story introduces a "scout elf" who serves as Santa Claus's helper, observing children's behavior and reporting back to the North Pole each night.
© Getty ImagesEach morning in December, the elf returns to the home, often appearing in a different spot or engaging in creative and playful setups. The tradition quickly gained popularity, sparking joy for families worldwide. It encourages creativity in parents while creating a sense of wonder and excitement for children as they search for their elf's new location each morning. Over the years, families have personalized the tradition, making it a unique part of their holiday celebrations.
Vanessa Bryant's Heartfelt Take
Vanessa has elevated this cherished tradition to a heartwarming and personal level. Her elves, posed in a festive winter scene surrounded by miniature Christmas trees, feature one-of-a-kind details that pay homage to her family. The tiny crocheted sneakers, emblazoned with a swoosh design, are a beautiful tribute to Kobe's legacy and the iconic Mamba brand.
Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" accompanied the enchanting scene, underscoring the season's magic. Vanessa also included a "Mamba" sticker, tying together her festive décor with a heartfelt reminder of the love that fuels her family traditions.
© Vanessa BryantThis personal take on Elf on the Shelf keeps the holiday spirit alive and incorporates elements of remembrance and legacy. For families looking to make their Elf on the Shelf tradition unique, Vanessa's creative twist is an inspiring reminder of how to infuse cherished memories into festive celebrations.
