From police-grade cooling vest to $750 beard, here's what it takes to make a living as Santa

Santa Jim understands the value of a top-notch beard - no straggly, wispy nonsense or anything that could easily get pulled off.

Instead, he imports his beard, which ties on in three places, from Switzerland for a whopping $750.

To Santa Jim, it's worth every penny.

According to this professional, private events Santa Claus - Jim Manning when he's out of the red suit - a lot more goes into playing Santa than simply showing up, finding the nearest couch, and letting kids sit on your lap.

Below, Manning shares more about the business of being Santa: