Family Traditions and Hard Work Behind the Perfect Christmas Tree
The magic of Christmas trees doesn’t just happen overnight. It’s a labor of love that involves meticulous care and a bit of humor, as the Spilker family can attest. For them, the preparation for the festive season is as much about nurturing the trees as it is about cherishing family memories.
According to Keith, maintaining the ideal shape of a Christmas tree is crucial. “But without a distinguished, designated top, they don’t grow as well,” he explained. “They don’t grow up as well. They grow kind of bushy, so the tops are very, very important.” This attention to detail ensures that each tree has the perfect form for decorating.
The process of shaping these trees into the perfect cone shape begins in the heat of summer. Keith meticulously trims away stray branches, a task that can take from several days to weeks, ensuring each tree meets the high standards expected by their customers.
As the busy sales season approaches, the Spilker family gathers to prepare both the trees and the shop. Despite reducing their operations in recent years, the tradition of family members coming together remains strong, fueled by the memories they continue to create. Bruce captures the essence of their efforts, saying, “When families are out, kids are out… The place is busy with people, the trees are coming and going, the work crews working together… That is what you do everything for.”
The brothers share fond memories and light-hearted moments, from pushing an aunt through the netting machine to working through severe weather conditions. They’re known for giving each crew member playful nicknames that have become a cherished part of their tradition.
Bruce humorously described the division of labor among the Christmas crew. “I don’t know how long ago it started,” he said. “We had the folks in the field. We called them the hackers, and the folks inside are the slackers. So, it’s all chit chat about the hackers and the slackers all day long. ‘Who’s working hard inside?’ Where it’s warm and cushy, compared to out there in the cold, freezing weather.”
