<P> The Elf on the Shelf was written in 2004 by Carol Aebersold and daughter Chanda Bell over a cup of tea . Bell suggested they write a book about an old tradition of an elf sent from Santa who came to watch over them at Christmas time . Aebersold 's other daughter , Christa Pitts , was recruited by the family to share her expertise in sales and marketing . Together , the trio devoted the next three years promoting their self - published book and attending book signings and trade shows . </P>
<P> The Elf on the Shelf was written in 2004 by Carol Aebersold and daughter Chanda Bell over a cup of tea . Bell suggested they write a book about an old tradition of an elf sent from Santa who came to watch over them at Christmas time . Aebersold 's other daughter , Christa Pitts , was recruited by the family to share her expertise in sales and marketing . Together , the trio devoted the next three years promoting their self - published book and attending book signings and trade shows . </P>
who made up the elf on the shelf
who made up the elf on the shelf
Chanda Bell
Chanda Bell