Staging Christmas (2019) Movie Script

♪♪

♪ ooh ♪

♪ tick tock tick

it's comin' up quick ♪

♪ yeah, santa claus

is on his way ♪

♪ hauling lots of toys

for the girls and boys ♪

♪ on his trusty

christmas sleigh ♪

♪ ooh, ooh, whee ♪

♪ christmas is comin' fast ♪

♪ ooh, ooh, whee ♪

♪ christmas is comin' fast ♪

♪ now deck the halls

with lights and all ♪

♪ this christmas

is gonna be bright ♪

♪ with stockings hung

and carols sung ♪

♪ we'll get

this holiday right ♪

♪ ooh, ooh, whee ♪

♪ christmas is comin' fast ♪

♪ ooh, ooh, whee ♪

♪ christmas is comin' fast ♪

okay, will you call them back

and tell them

that if they want staging

for upstairs and downstairs,

it's gonna be a higher quote?

Great. Yeah, I'm just

grabbing coffee,

and then I'll be right in.

Thanks, bye.

- Hey.

- Hi.

- Usual?

- Yes, two today, please.

These christmas decorations

are new.

- Yeah, new company policy.

- Two lattes comin' up!

These garlands are beautiful.

Super high quality.

Do you know where

you got them from?

I don't.

They were just in a box

when I got to work.

Beautiful.

They're really pretty.

Yeah, I guess.

[laughs]

sorry.

Christmas decorating

is a big part of my job.

Oh, I thought you were just

unusually into garlands.

That too.

Don't even get me started

on how many different kinds

of tinsel there is.

Don't worry, I won't.

Thanks for the coffee.

Always. Have a jolly day.

- You too. Bye.

- Thank you. Bye.

Next. Hi!

- It's looking great in here.

- Thanks.

- Here, I got this for you.

- Oh, thank you.

King roasters.

It's my favorite.

I know how daunting the first

week in a new job can be,

and I just want you to know

you're doing a terrific job.

Lots to learn, but really

liking it all so far.

Well, let's finish fixing it up.

Sure.

Okay, how is

the wreath delivery going?

Good. They just hit some traffic

on their way down the mountain.

Okay, then let's push back

the client viewing.

But everything's

looking really great.

I mean, I doubt they'll notice

a couple of wreaths missing.

Oh, without the wreaths,

the look is incomplete.

Complete christmas. Got it.

I'll push it back.

I know it sounds crazy, but

our marketing team discovered

that houses that are

staged for christmas

from October

to the end of the year

have a 60% higher sell rate.

Oh, that high?

Yeah, people wanna picture

what their home

is gonna look like at christmas.

We're not just staging a house.

We're staging the idea of how

that house makes them feel.

But won't they be kinda

disappointed when they got here,

and the house is actually empty?

Never really thought about it.

They can decorate it themselves.

You know, I didn't realize

that staging an open house

required this much knowledge

of christmas decorating.

Don't worry.

The more you do it,

the better you get at it.

I bet you go all out

for your own christmas.

I used to when I was a kid.

But now I'm so busy

staging houses

that my christmas

gets put on the back burner.

You don't do anything

to celebrate? Visit family?

My dad's retired,

and he travels at the holidays.

I do go to our annual

christmas party.

- Hey, that's something.

- Yeah.

Mr. Lexington rented out

the deller art gallery.

Should be fun.

[phone chimes]

speaking of the boss.

Oh.

Oh, good.

You're looking over the

projections for next quarter.

Yes, riveting stuff.

Oh, wait, here.

Try this new blend

I've been working on.

I like it.

I was thinking we could

try it out at the larimer store.

That's actually what I wanted

to talk to you about.

Oh, good.

More charts and graphs.

As you know,

we're on track to open up

three more king coffee roasters

in colorado,

with the goal

to expand out of state.

Oh, I know.

That's why I've been working

14-hour days nonstop

for this past year.

Well, in order to stay on track,

we're gonna have to be

a little more selective

with our bean supplier.

As in something cheaper?

If we want this franchise

to grow,

it's the only choice.

Yeah, of course. The whole

reason I started this company

was to serve good quality coffee

at a reasonable price.

I know, and you have,

and we can continue to.

We just have to make some

changes for the greater good.

This is why you hired me,

big brother.

Oh, and apparently,

also to implement

christmas decorations

in all our stores.

Yes, special project initiative.

And so far, people are

responding well to it.

All right, I'll have a look

at our supplier options.

How's unpacking going?

Hmm, it's going.

I mean, of course,

there's still boxes everywhere

and hardly any furniture.

You know, I thought this

new house would help maddie,

but so far,

it's not working.

Well, I didn't just move

back here for this job.

If you or maddie ever

need anything, I'm here.

Thanks.

King roasters in every state.

That's the goal.

Yup, that's the goal.

No, no, no, no, no, no,

we sent you the correct dates.

My assistant cc'd you.

I'm looking at the email

right now.

Well, never in all my years

have I witnessed

this poorly handled

of a situation.

Oh, don't think I won't.

Everything okay?

The deller art gallery

double-booked us,

so we no longer have a venue

for our company christmas party.

That's terrible.

Is that what you wanted

to talk to me about?

Oh, no, no, no.

I wanted to talk to you about

something much more upbeat.

I am happy to announce

that we are opening up

a branch of lexington staging

in new york city.

That's incredible.

You've wanted that for so long.

Indeed. Ever since

I started the company.

Now all that's left is...

Finding the perfect person

to put in charge.

Lori, you do amazing work.

I mean, you're ambitious,

you're dedicated.

I think you would do wonders

staging penthouses

and luxury hotels.

And that is why you are one

of three senior-level stagers

that I am considering promoting

to director of

our new york city branch.

One of three?

Yup. You know, I'm still

reviewing portfolios

and crunching numbers,

but I wanted you to know

you're in the running.

Thank you so much.

Mr. Lexington, I would love

to help you find someplace

for our christmas party.

I have a few venues in mind.

You know what I loved

about the deller gallery?

It reminded me so much

of my family's

magical storybook home.

You know, it just had

that elegant but homey feel

that's always so welcoming.

I think we can find someplace

with the same feeling.

This close to christmas?

Of course.

Well, that would be

an incredible help.

Listen, I will email you a list

of all the things that we need,

but if you can

pull this off, ooh!

Thank you.

This is really good, thanks.

Then just find

a local wreath maker.

There's gotta be someone nearby.

Okay.

I am so sorry.

I did not see you there.

It's fine. I wasn't looking

where I was going.

- Here, please take this.

- Thanks.

Waiter, may I get

some club soda, please?

You carry a handkerchief

with you where you go?

Well, yeah, you never know

when you're gonna

dump your takeout

all over someone, right?

Right.

- Thank you.

- Thanks.

Sorry about your soup.

No, don't be.

Soup's replaceable.

I'm sorry about your shirt.

Replaceable too.

Oh, smells good.

Oh, yeah, it's minestrone,

my daughter's favorite.

I highly recommend it.

I'll keep that in mind.

Oh, see?

All good. Thank you.

Thank you.

Yeah, of course.

Well, enjoy your dinner.

You too.

- Hey.

So what was that all about?

Minor spill.

He was cute.

Oh, no. Is that

why you brought me here,

to pry into my

nonexistent love life?

Can't a friend just, like,

catch up with a friend

who works way too much

and needs to take more breaks,

which maybe include

a date here or there?

I knew it.

- I'm just happy to see you.

- Me too.

- How are dan and the kids?

- Great.

And by great,

I mean drive me crazy,

but in a wonderful way.

It must be nice to have

a family to come home to.

It could be you one day,

but it would start with a date.

Which would start

with free time.

Not all of us are superwoman

with a great family

and great career.

Yeah, I'm pretty amazing.

You are.

Oh, but what about

that accountant?

I think his name was ted?

Oh, well, after canceling on him

a couple of times,

we finally went out,

and all he talked about

was bond yields.

Those are important.

The truth is,

with everything going on

and this potential promotion

and stagings,

it would take someone

really special to sweep me away.

Then cheers to someone

really special,

wherever he may be.

It's your favorite, maddie.

Listen, I know we've

been eating takeout

night after night lately,

but I've just been

really busy at work.

I'm sorry.

Hey, how about this?

After dinner,

we play some good music

and tackle those boxes.

What about

my parent-teacher conference?

Right, of course.

That is tonight.

You forgot, didn't you?

Nope. I just didn't remember

in a timely manner.

It's at 8:00.

Ah, it's only 7:30.

I'll just call aunt nikky.

[line ringing]

hey, everett, what's going on?

Hey, nikky. How do you feel

about coming over

to watch your favorite niece

tonight for about an hour?

Oh, is it her parent-teacher

conference tonight?

Yes, parent-teacher conferences.

You forgot, didn't you?

No, I did not forget.

Of course. I'd love to spend

time with maddie tonight.

- I'll be right there.

- Okay, great.

Thank you so much.

See you soon.

See? Aunt nikky's

on her way over.

Everett: So how's maddie doing?

Maddie's a wonderful student

who goes out of her way

to be kind to everyone.

I'm happy to hear that.

But I am worried about her.

She's having a hard time

participating

in class activities.

Yeah, I can see her being shy

from time to time.

Maybe, but I think

it's a bit more than that.

I recently assigned

the class an essay

on what the holidays

meant to them,

and maddie didn't seem

interested.

Well, what children are actually

interested in writing essays?

True.

She said it was

because the holidays

haven't been the same

since her mom died,

and she wouldn't know

what to write.

Ah.

May I ask how long it's been?

About three years.

I'm so sorry for your loss.

Yeah, I guess I have

kinda dropped the ball

about christmas

these past few years.

It's hard to celebrate.

I understand.

And I know maddie's

had a tough time lately.

We moved into a new home

and really haven't had

a chance to make it ours.

Well, perhaps

that's where you start.

Check in with maddie,

see what she thinks

might make the place

feel more like home.

I will, and I'll definitely try

to make this a better christmas.

Maddie's a wonderful

little girl.

The two of you are lucky

to have each other.

We are.

Everett: Your teacher said

so many nice things about you.

Maddie: That's good.

So did you have fun

with aunt nikky?

Yeah. I'm glad she lives

close by again.

Yeah, me too.

I'm sorry things have

been hard lately.

I really am.

I just want us to have

a great christmas, that's all.

Is there anything

you really want for christmas?

A puppy?

Okay. Going big, huh?

Anything that might not

need potty training?

I wish our house

looked like it did

when we first bought it.

It looked so cool.

There's christmas stuff

everywhere.

Oh, no, sweetie.

Those houses are just

staged like that

for when they wanna

sell them.

They don't actually come with

all that christmas decoration.

Just helps them sell the home.

I'll tell you what.

I will do my best to get us

some amazing

christmas decorations, okay?

- Okay.

- I love you.

- Love you too.

- Good night.

Lori: You don't have

anything available?

How about the atrium?

You host parties there, right?

Thanks.

- Any luck?

- No.

Any place nice enough to host

a party is already booked.

Why did I tell him

I could do this?

There's a man on line three.

He's trying to track down

the designer

who staged the house

he just bought.

- Why?

- I don't know.

Can you take a message? I've got

so many places to go check out.

Hello?

Yeah, she's not available.

Can I take a message?

Mm-hmm.

The country house

on cedar place?

Yeah, okay.

I'll let her know.

Thanks.

What did he want?

So he wants to hire

the exact person

who staged his house

to come and recreate it.

That's a first.

The house on cedar place

had these gorgeous

high ceilings,

hardwood floors,

elegant, homey feel.

Can I get his info?

Yeah, of course.

Thanks. See you later.

See ya.

Perfect.

[camera clicks]

[ding dong]

hi there.

Hi.

I like your boots.

Thanks.

I don't tell many people this,

but I got them on

the sales rack.

[chuckles]

nice.

Is everett king home?

Dad!

He's in his office.

Dad!

Coming.

Sorry about that.

Oh!

You're the soup guy.

One of my many titles.

How's the shirt?

- It's just fine.

- Oh, good.

So you're not here to collect

the dry cleaning bill then.

No. I'm lori townsend

from the staging company.

From lexington staging?

- Yeah.

- Dad?

Maddie, this is the woman

I spilled our soup on

the other night.

Hi, I'm maddie.

It's nice to meet you, maddie.

Sorry my dad is a klutz.

[chuckles]

it actually inspired me

to order the minestrone.

Well, please, come on inside.

Lori: Wow.

Everett: Yeah, it looks

a little bare, we know.

Just a tad.

So when maddie and I

went to look at

the open house you staged,

she actually thought

it came with all that stuff.

It looked like

the perfect christmas.

Yeah, well, starting in October,

we stage for

all things christmas.

Can you bring it all back?

Or more formally,

can we hire you

to stage the house

like you did before,

christmas-ready and all?

Unfortunately,

after we stage a house,

we send all the decorations

and furniture back.

It would be impossible

to recreate it.

Oh.

Or maybe you can

do a new staging

along the same lines?

That's not something I do.

Actually,

when I heard you called,

I came here to ask you

for something.

Oh, so you didn't come here

to stage the house?

Since your house has

such a spacious homey feel,

I was thinking that it

would be the perfect place

to host our office

christmas party.

Oh, that's, uh,

an interesting request.

My boss has a very specific

atmosphere in mind.

- Hey, this is a win-win.

- What do you mean?

You stage our house

for christmas,

work whatever magic

you worked before,

and we'll let you use the house

for your company party.

It'll benefit both of us.

Okay.

- You have yourself a deal.

- Great!

I'll make this place look better

than you could ever imagine.

Deal.

Will you be able

to find a big tree,

the same as

the one that was here?

Yep, just need to order it.

No problem.

- Oh, is this your wife?

- Yeah.

My mom died three years ago.

I'm sorry to hear that.

She was really good

at christmas.

Yeah, she sure was.

Then let's honor her

and make this

as christmassy as possible.

Lori, would you like

a cup of coffee?

I'd love one.

I remember using

currier and ives

as inspiration

when I was staging the house.

Currer and what?

Currier and ives. It was

this old printmaking company

that was inspired by christmas

imagery that was classic,

like horses pulling sleighs

and snow-covered houses,

holly on the fireplace.

Could we get horses

pulling sleighs?

I don't know about that,

but we could probably get

decorations that depict it.

Thank you.

Ah, king roasters coffee.

My favorite.

That's dad's company.

No way. Really?

Everett king, founder and ceo.

I go there every morning,

the one at larimer square.

- You do?

- Yes, best lattes in town.

That's our very first store.

I've spent a lot of time there.

I kinda miss that place.

I'm stuck in an office

doing nothing but making

boring business decisions.

Welcome to the corporate world.

Oh, you know,

I have a staging across town,

but I'll start

gathering stuff tomorrow

and head to

the christmas warehouse.

What's that?

It's this big store

that has lots

of christmas decorations

that you can buy and rent.

- Can I come?

- Sweetie, you have school.

After?

If it's okay with your dad.

I've never actually brought

anyone there before.

I have a meeting.

That I can reschedule.

Yay!

I guess I'll see you guys

tomorrow.

Everett: Sounds good.

Maddie: Bye.

Everett: Bye.

- I like her.

- Yeah, me too.

Our house is gonna look awesome!

[laughs]

this is so cool.

I wish we could live here.

Well, thank you

for letting us tag along.

Hopefully, we're not

too much of a burden.

No, it's really fun to see

through new eyes.

I'm always coming in

such a rush and stressed out

that I forgot this place

is pretty cool.

Maddie: Dad, lori!

We have to get this.

That would look great

in your front foyer.

Oh, and, dad, look.

A dog bed.

You guys have a dog?

No, but maddie

really wants one.

Oh, I see.

Hey, maddie, why don't you

take these stickers

and put them on anything you see

that you'd love for your house.

I'm on it.

Oh, boy.

She's really gonna let the power

go to her head now.

♪♪ [upbeat]

♪ hey, hey, santa ♪

♪ it's time to soar

across the sky ♪

♪ all right ♪

♪ there's a chill in the air ♪

♪ good cheer everywhere ♪

♪ it's all right ♪

♪ mmm, yeah ♪

♪ people get ready ♪

♪ christmas is about

to take flight ♪

♪♪

♪ ho ho ho ♪

♪ let it snow ♪

♪ people get ready ♪

♪ christmas is about

to take flight ♪

lori: We wanna pick out pieces

that will go with

the architecture of your house,

but give it a modern feel.

That way, the decorations

will really pop.

Yeah, that's exactly

what I was thinking.

Have you always been

a christmas expert?

I guess so.

Christmas has always been

my favorite holiday.

My mom would go all out

and decorate our house.

Got pretty competitive

on our block.

I guess that's why

I picked a career

where I decorate for christmas

four months out of the year.

Everett: I can only imagine

what your own place

must look like.

Actually, it's lacking

in the christmas decor.

I guess

it's one of those things

where when you do it

as a career,

you don't really do it

for yourself.

I haven't had a real

christmas in years.

How about you?

Are you a big christmas fan?

I was, but it's been hard

to get in the spirit,

ever since my wife passed.

I can only imagine.

I wanna be good at doing

christmas, you know, for maddie.

I want it

to mean something again.

That's really sweet.

Guys...

I'm out of stickers!

[laughing]

that's the nutcracker

I picked out.

It is! I looked at

everything you picked out.

So much is gonna go right with

the classic christmas theme.

You've even picked out stuff

I would have never thought of.

Thanks.

It's looking amazing.

There is something else.

I didn't see it at the store,

but I think we need it.

- What is it?

- A piano.

- Do you play?

- My dad does.

Or he did.

He used to play all the time,

especially around christmas.

But he stopped when my mom died.

He didn't take it with us

when we moved.

You know what?

I'll keep my eyes open for one.

Hey, ladies.

- Hey.

- Wow!

It's looking great in here.

Oh, look at that.

We have a dining room table now.

We can eat on it tonight

when aunt nikky and casey

come over.

Yeah, we sure can.

And lori can come.

Oh, maddie, I'm sure lori

has lots of other stuff to do.

Do you?

My night is unusually free.

Then you've gotta

stay for dinner.

Yeah, you gotta.

I'd love to.

It's all coming along nicely.

I just hung up some more lights.

It smells delicious in here.

Just an old family recipe

that my grandma used to make

every christmas.

I'm not making

any promises though.

It's been awhile

since I've made this.

Well, the smell is on point.

Anything I can do?

No, please,

just sit back and relax.

I'm not very good at that.

How about chopping?

Yeah, sure,

if you feel so inclined.

Oh, I do.

So you like to cook?

I don't really have much time,

but I can chop.

How about you?

Oh, no.

Believe it or not,

this is the first time

I'm getting to use the oven.

I've just been so busy lately.

Well, king roasters coffee

must be going well.

Yeah. I just hired

my sister nikky.

You'll get to meet her tonight.

Now she keeps me focused

on the big picture stuff.

Very business oriented.

Sometimes I wish I could

just make a customer

a really good cup of coffee.

I feel like

I've lost track

of why I created king roasters

coffee in the first place.

But I'm rambling on.

I apologize.

I totally understand.

When I started staging,

it was all about the love of it

and the passion to make

something feel like home.

Higher I got up the ladder,

the more it felt like a job.

Yeah, if we could just

forget about all that stuff

and concentrate on

what's important, right?

Bringing joy to someone's day.

Exactly.

Hey, you know there's

an easier way to chop those.

Automatic slicer?

No. It's all in the wrist.

Like this?

Yeah, sort of.

Wait, you got it.

Thank you.

Nikky: He did it all

in an elf costume,

and he ended up winning

first prize anyway.

[laughing]

well, maddie's finally in bed.

Nikky was just telling great

stories about you, everett.

Don't listen

to anything she says.

I am totally serious.

Growing up, everett insisted

that the lyrics, "deck the halls

with boughs of holly,"

were actually "deck the halls

with buddy holly."

and it turned into him

wearing horn-rimmed glasses

when our school choir sang it.

You love that story.

Speaking of

embarrassing stories,

nikky thought she was named

after saint nicholas,

aka santa claus.

Uh, she still thinks that.

Ask mom. It's true.

Okay, but in all seriousness,

everett, this dinner

was delicious.

I had no idea you could cook.

Well, thank you.

I felt inspired.

Plus, we've had

way too much takeout lately.

And we have a special guest.

Lori, I'm glad my brother

found you.

The house is looking better

than I've ever seen it.

Thanks.

It's just the beginning.

I've got lots up my sleeve.

- Kinda cute there.

- [laughing]

this is the most I've seen

you smile in a long time.

Well, it was a fun night.

Yeah, lori's pretty great.

Yeah, she is.

It's not like that.

She's here to stage the house

and use the venue

for her company party.

It's all professional.

Ah, yes, the classic

"here to stage the house

and use the venue

for her company party" routine.

That doesn't explain

why she was here for hours,

listening to me tell

embarrassing stories about you.

Whatever you're implying,

I'm not ready for it.

I know it's hard,

but at some point,

you have to open your heart

to someone new again.

You're using way too much soap.

Okay, mom.

♪♪

♪ oh, the countdown's on ♪

♪ just a few more days

till christmas comes ♪

♪ gotta decorate,

got shopping left to do ♪

♪ yeah, the countdown's on,

so move along ♪

♪ gotta get things right

for christmas morn ♪

♪ here it comes ♪

♪ here comes santa claus ♪

tonya: So he owns

all of the stores?

Founder and ceo.

Impressive.

And he hired you

to decorate his house?

He hired me

to restage his house.

So decorating.

We've talked about this

a thousand times.

Decorating's

a big part of my job.

Well, I think it's great

that you could actually stage it

with the people in mind,

instead of just some

generic display.

Never really

thought about it that way.

Yeah, the better

I stage the house,

the better the party will be.

Hmm, so you think if

lexington comes to the party

and sees what a great job

you did staging it,

he'll forget the other people

and give you the promotion?

That's the idea.

And maddie's bringing

so much fun to it,

things that I wouldn't think of.

Maddie?

Everett's daughter.

She's adorable.

She's 10 years old

and clearly an old soul.

And lexington doesn't mind

his company christmas party

is leaning more toward fun

than classy?

Maddie's bringing the fun,

and I think we really

balance each other out.

What?

Nothing.

I've just never

seen you like this.

Like what?

Just lighter.

That makes no sense.

It does to me.

I'm going to the office.

Now that sounds more

like the lori I know.

I love you.

You wanted to see me?

Yes, come on in.

I wanna know

how the party's coming along.

So far, so good.

It was a little like

starting from scratch,

but I think it worked

to our advantage.

Did you see the new invites?

I did, and I saw you

chose a private residence.

Yeah, it's this beautiful

chateau-style home

that has the same elegance

that the deller art gallery had.

I think you're gonna

really love it.

All right.

Well, you know I saw the invites

were a lot more celebratory

and fun than in years past.

Yeah, there's a lot of joy

in the staging,

while still keeping

the classic christmas feel.

All right, this gives me hope.

You know, another reason

why I chose the deller gallery

was because of their

enormous christmas tree.

You know, you just walk in

that place, and you get hit

with this authentic

rocky mountain pine aroma.

You think we could

do something similar?

A real christmas tree.

Of course.

All right.

I look forward to seeing

how this all turns out.

Me too.

I mean, I can't wait

to show you.

You know, knowing I can count

on you for this christmas party,

that means a lot, lori.

Hey, everything okay?

I ordered a fake tree.

Is that bad?

Apparently, lexington

wants an authentic, large,

fresh rocky mountain pine.

- Oh.

- What am I gonna do?

Yeah.

Maddie: I've never cut down

my own tree before.

And just to be clear,

at no point will we

be doing that today.

Isn't that why we're

going to the mountains?

No, we're going to this farm

because it has the best trees.

And my party and your house

deserves the best.

So we're not cutting it down

with an axe?

I'm sorry, honey, but no.

But you do gotta help me

pick the perfect tree.

Yes.

So, lori, why go

to all the trouble

for your company

christmas party?

I guess I have it in my head

that if I impress my boss,

he'll pick me for this promotion

that I'm up for in new york.

You're moving to new york?

It depends.

I thought if I swayed him

with this amazing party

that he would choose me.

Well, I hope you get it.

Thank you.

Yeah, you deserve it.

You're good at what you do,

and you always go

above and beyond.

I appreciate that.

All those so-called christmas

tree farms in the big city,

they're puny trees

because they

chop them down too soon.

It's a tragedy.

Our farm is all about

letting the trees

grow as tall as they can.

Well, I mean,

we are a bit restrictive

on what will actually fit

on the roof of my car.

Nonsense.

We'll deliver it to you.

- Really?

- Yes.

We know it's a trek

up the mountain.

We'll make it worth your while.

Do you have any tips

on picking out the best one?

Smell.

Use your nose.

Do you have a good nose?

Not as good as a dog's,

but it'll do.

[laughing]

okay, now go.

Go and find one.

You know, this is the first time

I've picked out a tree

since I was maddie's age.

Really? I would've thought with

all the christmas decorating,

that would be impossible.

I usually just order fake ones.

I haven't had a real tree

in years.

Well, I'm glad I get to witness

this monumental event.

[chuckling]

okay, so this is

gonna sound corny,

but I think this is how

christmas is supposed to feel.

What do you mean?

This.

Being out in the winter air,

taking a tree you can smell.

I didn't realize

how much I missed it.

I love christmas,

but I haven't had one in years.

Lori, that's not corny at all.

I feel it too.

Maddie: Found it!

Ben: You picked a good one.

Yeah, it's a beautiful tree,

but will it actually fit

inside the house?

Yes, I think so.

All right then.

I guess that's our tree.

We'll get it cut

and delivered to you pronto.

Great.

Dad, I'm hungry.

Well, tree hunting

will do that to you.

Can I recommend sally's,

a mile or so down the road?

Best hot chocolate and pie

in the state of colorado.

I love pie.

Hey, that sounds great to me.

What do you say, ladies?

Okay, I'm definitely ordering

these for the christmas party.

This may be the best thing I've

ever tried in my entire life.

That is quite the statement.

Try the cherry.

Okay, now that may be the

best thing that ever existed.

Oh, really?

Well, then shall I confuse you

by offering you some pumpkin?

Yes, yes, you should.

Lori, will you spend

christmas with us?

Maddie, that's so sweet.

Maddie, that's a really

big thing to ask somebody.

You know what? I'll check

my schedule and let you know.

Okay.

Hey, everett, maddie mentioned

you play the piano.

Oh, did she now?

Lori: Yes, she did.

I used to dabble in it.

Do you take requests?

[laughs]

I highly doubt

all these people

trying to enjoy their pie

want that kind of disruption.

I bet they'd like it, dad.

All right, in the name

of christmas pie.

Any requests, lori?

Maddie, you choose.

Jingle bells.

Jingle bells it is, ladies.

[clears throat]

♪♪ [jazz]

♪ dashing through the snow ♪

♪ in a one-horse open sleigh ♪

♪ o'er the fields we go ♪

♪ laughing all the way ♪

♪ bells on bobtails ring ♪

♪ making spirits bright ♪

♪ what fun it is

to laugh and sing ♪

♪ a sleighing song tonight ♪

♪ oh, jingle bells,

jingle bells ♪

♪ jingle all the way ♪

♪ oh, what fun it is to ride ♪

♪ in a one-horse open sleigh

hey ♪

♪ jingle bells

jingle bells ♪

♪ jingle all the way ♪

♪ oh, what fun it is to ride ♪

♪ in a one-horse open sleigh ♪

- hey, this came for you.

- Great. It's here.

- Is it for the party?

- In a way.

It's for everett

and maddie's tree.

I don't usually do

tree toppers for stagings,

but it felt like they deserve

something special.

Seems like things

are going well.

Yeah, the party's

coming together great,

and the house is looking

like they wanted it to.

Well, they're lucky to have

a decorating master like you.

Lately, I feel

like the lucky one.

[whistling "jingle bells"]

- you're whistling.

- I am.

- You never whistle.

- I whistle.

Where were you yesterday?

I couldn't reach you.

I was up in the mountains,

helping maddie and lori

pick out a christmas tree.

With lori?

You don't say.

It was an errand for the house.

Why can't you just admit

that you like her?

- Because it's not like that.

- Really?

You went christmas tree shopping

with her,

you had her over for dinner,

she's decorating your house.

- It's business for her.

- Okay, I'm your sister.

I have a sixth sense

about this kinda stuff.

Just admit it.

Okay, what if I do?

And what if she

feels the same way?

But what if

it doesn't work out?

And what if maddie has to

go through another loss?

That's a lot of what-ifs.

Well, she's up

for a job promotion.

If she gets it,

she has to move to new york.

So you do like her.

I'm glad that's what

you got from all this.

Look, I can't even

begin to imagine

what you and maddie have

gone through, and it sucks.

Living in fear of something

good ever happening again,

that's no way to exist.

Is that the example

you wanna set for maddie?

No, of course not.

But this is just

way too complicated right now.

Besides, I don't even know

how she feels.

This could be just

completely one-sided.

Yeah, and you'll never know

unless you take a chance.

I have work to do.

Mr. King, haven't seen

you here in a while.

Yeah, I just thought

I'd do a routine check

and see if everything

is all right.

People are loving

the christmas decorations.

Oh, good.

Are you waiting for someone?

Uh, no.

As a matter of fact,

I should head back

to the office.

[door chime rings]

everett king

of king roasters coffee?

You'd better keep that down.

I don't want the paparazzi

to swarm.

What are you doing here?

Well, I used to come in here

more and check things out.

I'm trying to

implement that again.

Are you here

for your daily latte?

That I am.

All right, well, I will

personally make that for you.

I feel so honored.

Hey, I was gonna call you.

I have some decorations coming

to your place this afternoon.

- Will you be there?

- I have a meeting,

and then I have to pick up

maddie from her friend's.

Oh, okay.

But you know what?

I have a good idea.

Why don't you just go ahead

and let yourself in?

Really? Are you sure?

Decorations take precedence.

This is delicious.

Well, I'm glad you like it.

It's on the house.

I better get going.

Yeah, me too.

- Bye.

[door chime rings]

oh, good, you guys got here

just in time

to help me decorate the tree.

Is everything okay?

I'm so sorry.

I thought you gave me the keys

so that I could decorate

while you're at work.

I did not mean to upset maddie.

No, it's not that.

It's not you at all.

A student's mom is having

an event tomorrow at school.

It's a mom-and-me cinnamon

ornament-making thing.

I told her I'd go,

but she said it's a mom thing.

Don't they realize

some kids don't have a mom?

Yeah, and I even

talked to the teacher,

and she said

it's open to anybody,

but I think maddie

took the mom part literally.

Poor thing.

Are you okay with us decorating

the tree another night?

Of course.

Actually, do you think it's okay

if I went up and spoke to her?

Yeah, go for it. I'm just gonna

go make gingerbread cookies

because when in doubt,

I use sugar

to make my kid feel better.

Well, I'd like

to try one of those.

You got it.

♪♪

♪♪ [continues]

maddie, can I come in?

Yeah.

♪♪ [continues]

that's a gorgeous music box.

My mom gave it to me

when I was five.

May I?

♪♪

it's very special.

You must miss her a lot.

All the time.

Can I tell you something?

I lost my mom

when I was really young too.

Really?

I wasn't much older than you.

I missed her all the time.

But then you know what I did?

I found happiness

in spending time with friends.

I went to the movies,

eating good cookies.

And it was in those moments

that I felt

most connected to her.

Above all else, honey,

moms want their kids

to be happy.

I like that.

Now, this ornament thing,

what's it all about?

Brianna's mom

is really good at crafts,

and she's coming in

and teaching everybody

how to make

cinnamon stick ornaments.

People are bringing their moms.

Brianna's mom is crafty, huh?

Well, has she ever made

a chandelier out of old spoons?

- Have you done that?

- Yes.

In college as an art project.

How would you feel if I came

and made ornaments

with you tomorrow?

Really? You wanna come?

I would love to.

Okay, yeah, awesome!

Awesome.

Hey, how is she?

Better. I hope it's okay.

I offered to make cinnamon stick

ornaments with her

tomorrow at school.

You did?

Wow, thanks.

Wait, have you ever made

cinnamon ornaments?

No, never made them,

but I'm excited to try.

You're really good with her,

by the way.

Thanks. I lost my mom

when I was really young,

so I know how hard it can be.

Oh, I'm sorry.

I didn't know that.

It's okay.

Maddie is a really strong kid.

Yes, she is.

And I honestly don't know

what I'd do without her.

She's my rock.

I've never really spent

much time with kids.

My best friend tonya

has three,

but we usually hang out

when she needs a little break.

Well, you're a natural.

You'll make a great mom someday,

if that's what you want,

of course.

I always thought

I'd have a really big family.

Then I got so focused

on my career

that that just didn't

really happen.

Well, what about now?

Now there's this promotion,

and it means more work.

Well, take it from a guy

who used to take

everything for granted.

Success means nothing without

somebody to share it with.

That's something I have to

remind myself from time to time.

- [beeping]

- cookies.

[school bell ringing]

remember, if you get stuck

on what to make,

tie a bunch of sticks together,

add a bell or two,

and then you have

the perfect ornament.

Girl: Teacher, teacher!

What are you making?

I'm tying these ribbons

around this cinnamon stick

and making a christmas tree.

I'm gonna make

one of those next.

What are you working on?

Is it a reindeer?

No, it's a dog.

I should have known.

But I made it for you.

Oh, I love it, maddie.

Oh, I don't believe we've met.

I am mrs. Pryor,

maddie's teacher.

- I'm lori.

- Are you everett's girlfriend?

No. I'm helping maddie

decorate her house.

Oh.

But she's also my friend.

Yes, that too.

Well, that's wonderful.

Thank you for joining us.

Thanks for having me.

Well, I'll leave you two to it.

Wow, what's that?

Want me to teach you

how to make one of these?

Aww.

The entire room

smells like cinnamon, huh?

Cinnamon or christmas?

A very cinnamony christmas.

I got this

for the top of the tree.

Oh, wow, it's great.

I ordered it online.

I used to have one

just like it when I was a kid.

I thought maddie would love it.

Will you do the honors?

I'd love to.

What do you think?

It looks amazing.

Maddie's gonna be so excited

when she gets home

from her friend's.

That was very thoughtful of you.

No christmas is complete

without a tree topper.

If someone had told me

a few weeks ago

that I'd be decorating

christmas ornaments

with a 10-year-old

in a classroom

instead of running

around the office,

I wouldn't have believed them.

And if someone had told me that

the woman who staged the house

would be helping make this the

most special christmas in years,

I wouldn't have

believed them either.

How do you feel about it now?

I think I'm happy

you came into our lives.

What are you doing tomorrow?

I have a staging in the morning

and then christmas party prep.

Well, how do you feel

about taking a break

and coming by king roasters

in the square?

Sure. What for?

It's a surprise.

A good surprise.

Okay.

- That sounds like a date.

- No, it's not a date.

It's a get-together

with a surprise.

You together, alone,

at his coffee shop, after hours.

Right, not a date.

Do you want me

to help you carry those?

Yes. Christmas shopping

for three kids, not easy.

By the way,

if you want me to teach you

how to make

cinnamon stick ornaments,

I can show you.

- Okay, martha stewart.

- Hardly.

So...

Are you gonna

tell him tomorrow?

Tell him what?

That you like-like him.

Excuse me?

Sorry. It comes

with being a mom.

Lori.

Lori, hello.

Sorry, what?

In the market for a piano?

No, just always looking out

for pieces for my stagings.

Hmm. There's the lori

I'm familiar with.

Always got work on the brain.

Just as I was thinking

maybe this family

might be shifting

your priorities.

[chuckles]

♪ deck the halls

with boughs of holly ♪

♪ fa la la la la

la la la la ♪

♪ 'tis the season to be jolly♪

♪ fa la la la la

la la la la ♪

[door chime rings]

it smells amazing in here.

Welcome to king roasters'

official christmas

coffee tasting.

Wow, look at this.

I've never been

to a coffee tasting.

Wine tasting, yes,

but never a coffee tasting.

Well, you know,

some folks would argue

that there are more notes

in coffee

than there are in wine.

Is that so?

Now I know the plain latte

is your go-to drink here,

but it is christmas,

and we both jumped

headfirst in the festivities,

so I would like

to broaden your horizons.

I'm all in.

Good. Please have a seat.

Thanks.

Of course.

All right, your first drink

of the evening.

What is it?

Eggnog latte.

I'm not really an eggnog person.

Trust me, you don't have to be.

Okay.

Oh, that's good.

It's the only time

I do eggnog.

[laughs]

okay, a new taste.

It smells good.

Tastes really good.

Peppermint?

Mmm. I call it

candy cane mocha.

I used colombian beans,

darker roast,

which brings out

the natural oils,

which complements

the melted chocolate.

You really know your coffee.

Ehh. I can geek out about

this stuff from time to time.

When did you get

so passionate about it?

When I was in college,

I was a barista,

and that's when I realized

I'd like to experiment

with the different tastes,

and to socialize

with the people

more than I liked going

to my economics class.

And then I started

roasting my own beans,

seeing what tasted good,

what I liked, what others liked,

and then I decided

to open up my own coffee shop.

People seem to like it.

I can see why.

Yeah. And the more

they liked it,

the more people told me that I

should open up another location.

So I did. Then another.

And now there's pressure

to keep expanding.

From nikky?

Yeah, but she's right.

I mean, we're doing so well

we should use

this opportunity to grow.

Is that what you want?

I think so.

Anyway, try this one.

Now, that tastes

like christmas.

I was inspired by the ornaments

you made with maddie.

Cinnamon vanilla latte.

It's also heaven on earth.

It is.

♪ "it came upon

a midnight clear" ♪

okay, I want you

to taste one more.

Okay.

But please be honest

about this one.

I will.

It's, um...

- It's not good, right?

- Sorry.

No, don't be sorry

'cause I feel the same way.

But that's the coffee

nikky wants us to switch to.

Well, it's not that bad.

But I'd rather have

some of that candy cane mocha.

Mmm. Hey, you want me

to show you how to make it?

Sure.

Have you used

one of these before?

- Never.

- All right, well...

You'll be able to do it.

It's real simple.

Now, you wanna steam the milk.

Like this?

Yeah, you got it.

Just do your best

to hold it steady.

Am I doing it right?

Yeah, you got this.

Now, you wanna keep

the wand covered.

Okay.

You got-- ohh!

- Sorry, sorry.

- No, no, it's okay.

Don't worry about it.

It's just a rookie mistake,

that's all.

- [door chime rings]

- man: Are you guys open?

Sorry, we're closed.

Hmm.

I should probably

clean this up, right?

Yeah, I guess so.

This is the report

you asked for.

Thanks.

Hey, I just wanted

to say thanks again

for watching maddie last night.

Oh, fair warning.

Casey introduced her

to monopoly,

and the way she took to it,

might have another mba

in the family.

Noted.

So how was the date?

It wasn't a date.

Of course not.

Just you two alone together...

It was a coffee tasting.

Oh, bro, it has been so long

since you've been

in the dating game.

Usually people do dinner

or a movie.

Stop. We had fun.

But more importantly,

we both decided

that this is terrible.

Promise you gave it

a fair shot?

I promise.

No worries. I have a few other

samples we can try.

We will find one that works.

Dad, dad!

Close your eyes.

Lori got you a surprise.

Ooh, well, what is it?

You can't see it yet.

Just close your eyes.

Okay.

But, maddie,

don't let me trip.

Dad, trust me.

Just no peeking.

Okay, I promise.

No peeking.

- Can I open my eyes yet?

- Not yet.

Is this too much buildup?

What if he doesn't like it?

How can I not like

something you got me?

- But I am gonna open my eyes.

- No! One second.

Okay, now.

Ta-da!

I just thought

you played so beautifully,

and we found it on sale,

and it was within the budget,

and it ties everything together

so well for the party.

♪♪

I love it.

- Yay!

- You do?

This is just what

the house was missing.

I'll go get the decorations.

Decorations for...

- More lights.

- Ah.

Thank you so much

for doing this.

It's my pleasure.

And not just the piano,

but for everything.

You brought christmas

back into our lives.

You brought it back

into mine too.

Got it!

Oh, let's go put them

over here.

Yeah.

Well, what do you think?

Great.

Hey.

- I just think we should--

- hey.

Oh, it's good you're here.

What's going on?

Winter storm megan

is headed our way.

When?

In two days.

I hope people still come

to the christmas party.

Me too. It'd be a shame

to have to cancel

after all the work you've done.

- Cancel?

- Yeah.

I wouldn't want anybody

getting stuck in the snow.

Maybe it won't be that bad.

Let's hope for

a christmas miracle.

Lights out, maddie.

One more chapter?

Ah, that's what you said

about a half-hour ago.

I just want you to get

a good night's sleep.

Are you sure I can't go

to lori's party?

Yeah, but only because it's

gonna be a bunch of grown-ups.

Trust me, you're gonna have

a lot more fun at tracy's house.

Do you like-like lori?

[sighs]

yeah, I think I might.

Does that bother you?

No.

Good.

Listen, I know we

haven't had a chance

to talk about new people

coming into our lives, but--

dad, it's cool.

I love you.

Love you too.

All right, five more minutes.

Ten?

Fine.

Good night.

Like this?

Yeah, but not

the entire bottle.

I like a more rich taste

in my hot chocolate.

Oh, I know.

[laughs]

all right, now take

the milk we steamed

and pour and stir.

This is too easy for you.

You're an absolute natural.

Can I add a shot of espresso

to make it a mocha?

As impressed as I am

with you knowing that,

no, you cannot.

How about we use

some whipped cream instead?

Me too, please.

- Cheers.

- Mmm.

- [giggling]

I like your new look.

I'm trying to mix it up.

[horn honking]

oh, I bet that's

tracy's mom here

to pick you up and

take you to school.

All right.

See you, dad.

- Maddie, don't forget a lid.

- Bye, dad.

All right, so these are

all the beans we can use

if we wanted to expand

our company right now.

I want you to taste them.

Now, this is our typical

medium roast

we serve in all our stores.

This is so much better.

We should wait to expand.

[sighs]

and risk losing the demand?

I mean, word of mouth

is everything.

This is the time

to capitalize on our success.

Yeah, but wouldn't it

be terrible

if word of mouth got around

about how bad our coffee tasted?

I say we wait a year or two

and figure out a more

efficient way to cut cost

without risking

any of our quality.

Okay. We'll wait to expand.

- Yes?

- Yes.

But that means

growing what we have.

We should increase our marketing

and social media presence.

Yeah, we should do that.

I like that idea.

Sorry if I was pushing you in

a direction you didn't wanna go.

No, nikky, it's good.

I need somebody like you.

But I just want you

to remember that for me,

it's not about being on top.

It's about being the best.

That's why I love you, brother.

Mm.

- Whew.

- [laughing]

this is delicious.

Cinnamon vanilla latte,

everett's creation.

Smart man.

We almost kissed.

- What?

- The other day.

And?

We haven't really spoken since.

Wh-what does it mean?

I don't know, but I can't

really think about it

because the storm is

supposed to hit any second,

and I'm worried this is

all gonna be for nothing.

Well, how can you say that?

Clearly, it's not for nothing.

There's everett.

I know. There's everett

and there's maddie,

and the past few weeks,

they've been

the highlight in my life.

But?

But the whole reason I did

this party in the first place

was for this promotion,

and it's what I really want.

Is it?

I don't know,

but I can't spend my time

thinking what this is

or isn't.

It sounds to me like maybe

you should talk to everett.

Give him a chance

to tell you how he's feeling.

I need to deal

with this storm first.

It's supposed to hit tonight.

Okay, there's nothing

you can do about that.

It's out of your control.

But what is in your control

is figuring out

what's going on with everett.

♪ my baby's home ♪

♪ so far away ♪

♪ and now that

it's christmastime ♪

♪ I just wanna say ♪

♪ won't you come home ♪

♪ come home

for christmas this year ♪

♪ and spend it with me ♪

♪ yeah ♪

♪ I know it ain't easy ♪

♪ you got so much going on ♪

♪ but without you

this christmas ♪

♪ it would feel all so wrong ♪

♪ won't you come home ♪

- the storm.

- Didn't hit.

- At least not yet.

- Great!

Hopefully, if it hits,

everyone's already at the party.

- Yeah.

- I gotta get going.

Thanks for the coffee.

Woman: Excuse me, sir,

where do you want the glassware?

Oh, no, so that's the one

you should talk to.

She knows where everything goes.

Lori: The glasses go over here.

Hey, looks like

it's coming along nicely.

Everett, can I speak to you

for a second?

Yeah, sure.

So about the other day...

Um...

I just wanted to say...

The thing is that, I...

Thanks for letting us

use your home.

Yeah, of course.

The place looks amazing.

- Yeah, it does.

- All right.

So I'm gonna head

to the office,

finish up a little bit of work,

I'm gonna drop maddie off

at a friend's,

and I'll see you tonight?

Sounds good.

Casey and I are really

looking forward to tonight.

It was so nice of lori

to invite us.

Yeah, it should be fun.

I know that look.

Spill it.

There's no look.

I'm good.

We're finally back on

the same page, and I'm thrilled.

You know people

can't read minds.

What?

The best thing you can do

is just tell her

how you're feeling.

Oh, really? And what if she

doesn't feel the same way?

Then at least you tried.

Look, when you were

finally honest with me,

we got somewhere.

Why don't you try

being honest with her?

You know, as your older brother,

I should be the wise one.

♪♪ [jazz piano]

♪♪ ["o come all ye faithful"]

hi.

Oh, thank you.

Thank you.

- Oh, no.

- No, thanks.

Mm. Good.

Well, what do you think?

My daughter actually made those.

Oh, they're fantastic.

Yeah, I told her

the event was catered,

but she absolutely insisted.

Well, I'm glad she did.

- Lexington.

- Everett king.

Ah! So you're the man

who owns this home.

That's correct.

And you must be lori's boss.

The one and only.

Thanks for letting us

use your house.

Well, can I just say

this entire home

is all lori's doing.

In fact, the reason

we bought the place

was because of her

original staging.

She's a very talented woman.

Oh, yes. She did a very good job

of bringing together

the joy and fun of a classic

home-style christmas.

Ah, speaking of which...

Well, don't you look beautiful.

Thank you.

Absolutely stunning.

And not only you,

but this entire party.

I'm glad you feel that way.

I see you two have met.

Oh, yeah.

Everett is quite the host.

Not only does he own the most

amazing coffee shop in town,

he's an incredible musician.

Oh, is that so?

You should play something

for us then.

Oh, no, I'm not that good.

I insist.

Okay.

♪♪

♪ on the 12th day of christmas ♪

♪ my true love sent to me ♪

♪ 12 drummers drumming ♪

♪ 11 pipers piping ♪

♪ 10 lords a-leaping ♪

♪ nine ladies dancing ♪

♪ eight maids a-milking ♪

♪ seven swans a-swimming ♪

♪ six geese a-laying ♪

♪ five golden rings ♪

♪ four calling birds ♪

♪ three french hens ♪

♪ two turtle doves ♪

♪ and a partridge

in a pear tree ♪

splendid.

Absolutely splendid.

May I officially welcome you all

to the lexington staging company

christmas party.

[cheering]

and may I speak for everyone

when I say

we are having a marvelous time.

And none of this

would've been possible

without lori townsend.

[cheering]

I'm telling you,

in the nick of time,

lori saved this party.

I mean, the decor

speaks for itself.

And your displays, I mean,

they're always topnotch.

You have a real eye

for what works,

and you're always brave enough

to take on anything.

And that's why

it gives me great pleasure

to promote you

to executive director

of our new york offices.

[cheering]

well, what do you say, lori?

Do you accept?

It would be an honor.

Thanks so much.

All right!

[laughs]

merry christmas, everyone,

and here's to you all!

[cheering]

- congratulations!

- Thank you.

You know, I'll be so sad

to see you go,

but I'm so happy for you.

I'll show you all the ropes

before I leave.

Please.

Actually, I need to

talk to you about that.

Go ahead.

We booked our first client

in new york.

The ritz wants us to stage

one of their ballrooms

for a new year's eve party.

I'll need you

to head out right away.

When is right away?

Day after tomorrow.

- Christmas?

- Yes.

Another reason why you are

perfect for this job, lori.

You're always available

to work on christmas.

Now, listen, I will take care

of all the arrangements.

- I just need you to be there.

- Of course.

Lori, you have earned this,

every bit of it.

Party seems to be going well.

Oh, hey, yeah.

I just had to refill the ice.

Do you know nikky's

gonna be meeting my parents

for the first time on christmas?

That's a big step.

Yeah.

Especially since I've never

introduced my parents

to anyone I've dated.

It'll go well.

Anyone who knows you and nikky

knows you're meant to be.

That means a lot.

Still, there's always risk,

you know, with these big steps.

It's scary.

Yeah, but it'll be worth it.

Yes, yeah, totally worth it.

This is about nikky

meeting your parents, right?

That or anything else

that seems terrifying at first,

but needs to be done.

Did nikky send you in here?

No.

No, I just wanted to see if you

needed a hand with the ice.

Oh, thank you, but no.

Go enjoy the party.

You too.

There you are.

I needed some fresh air.

It's freezing!

Here, put this on.

Thank you.

Yeah, I guess the storm's coming

in later than predicted, huh?

- Listen--

- have you ever--

sorry, go ahead.

No, you go.

I am so happy for you

for getting this promotion.

And I'm sorry if what I'm about

to say is terrible timing,

but I can't keep

dancing around this.

But I don't think

I can let you leave

without telling you...

I'm falling in love with you.

Ever since you

came into my life,

I've felt joy again.

Just being around you,

talking with you,

laughing with you,

I honestly didn't think

I'd ever feel this way again.

I-I...

I'm so sorry. I can't.

I'm leaving for new york.

Yeah, of course,

as you should.

I just needed you to know.

You guys have been so amazing.

I really owe

this promotion to you.

I wish you the best.

♪ I wanna be there ♪

♪ during these holidays ♪

♪ now it feels like a hole ♪

♪ is here in my heart ♪

♪ 'cause I'm watching you

walk away ♪

- ♪ the carolers are singing ♪

- [door closes]

♪ and the snow

is falling down ♪

hey, how is it out there?

Lots of snow.

But that's good, right?

For snowmen and snow angels?

Didn't feel much like playing.

All right, well, how do you feel

about some hot chocolate?

What's so great about new york?

Oh, honey, are you asking

because of lori?

Yeah.

Well, I think it's just a really

good opportunity for her.

I don't want her to leave.

You know what? Me neither.

I was really starting

to enjoy having her around.

It's not just that.

I love the way you were

when she's around.

What do you mean?

Before lori

decorated our house,

you were sad

or busy working.

Now we hang out more,

and we talk more.

Maddie, I didn't know

I wasn't there for you before.

I'm so sorry for that.

But I love you

with all my heart,

and you're the most important

part of my life.

We're gonna be okay,

I promise you.

I know.

Don't forget my hot chocolate.

Of course not.

Extra marshmallows, right?

Yes, please.

You got it.

You should have these.

They're all the vendors

you might need.

Are you sure you wanna

give these to me?

Of course.

You're such a hard worker.

I see amazing things

in your future.

Thank you.

Thanks.

Hey.

Tonya, what are you

doing here?

Congratulations.

I took a long lunch break,

so we could celebrate.

Thank you.

I'm gonna miss you like crazy,

but I'm so happy for you.

Thanks.

Okay, so why are we not

jumping for joy?

I thought that's

what you wanted.

I'm just tired.

I'm very happy.

Okay, we've been best friends

since freshman year

of college,

so I know when you're lying.

It's just all happening

so fast,

and lexington wants me

to leave right away.

Okay, so that's why you're not

shouting from the rooftops

because it's all

moving too fast?

Everett told me he was

falling in love with me.

And?

And... I thanked him?

Mm. Is that

what you wanted to say?

No, of course not.

What I wanted to say

is that I'm falling in love

with him too.

- So go tell him.

- I can't.

I have to leave tomorrow.

But tomorrow's christmas.

I know.

- I'm gonna miss you so much.

- I'll miss you too.

Nikky, it's christmas eve.

Shouldn't you be on your way

to see casey's parents?

Yes, in a little bit. I just

wanted to get some work done.

I think I have some ideas

on lowering costs for growth

without changing anything.

What, why are you

looking at me like that?

I'm promoting you.

To what?

Ceo.

That's your job.

I think I'm stepping down.

I just wanna be the owner.

I wanna get back to roasting

and being hands-on

in all the stores.

You're better at all

this business stuff.

You should be handling

the day-to-day.

I can't believe this.

And most importantly,

I wanna spend more time

with maddie.

Everett, I don't know

what to say.

Well, I mean, I will be

making the final decision

on the big stuff,

but you're

better suited for this.

I promise I'll make you proud.

Merry christmas.

- [ringing]

- ho ho ho ho!

Merry christmas.

Can I get that bag for you?

Merry christmas.

Maddie: After my mom died,

christmas never felt

like christmas.

It felt sad

and made me wish

it could just not be

christmas anymore.

But this year is different.

This year, we had lori.

She helped fill our house

with christmas.

She decorated every room,

she helped us buy a tree,

and she even made

ornaments with me.

But she also made my dad smil.

My dad forgot

how to smile for a while,

but not anymore.

Lori made things fun again.

Christmas was good again.

So this year, what christmas

means to me is hope.

Hope that things

will always be okay

if you have family like my dad

and friends like lori.

♪♪

all right, maddie,

this is a big gift,

but I want you to take

your time opening it, okay?

Okay.

[puppy barking]

and that goes with this.

Thank you, thank you,

thank you!

Merry christmas, sweetie.

And you get to name her

whatever you want.

Sally, like the pie shop.

I like it.

I wish lori were here.

Yeah, me too.

Welcome to the family, sally.

[doorbell rings]

is that aunt nikky and casey?

I don't know. Go check.

Hey, you.

Lori! You came back!

Actually, I never left,

thanks to your essay.

You liked it?

I loved it.

Wait, so you're not

going to new york?

No.

Come on in.

[door closes]

lori!

Who's this?

- This is sally.

- Oh, hi, sally.

Sally, come see my room.

So you got her the puppy?

Yeah. It was inevitable.

But what are you doing here?

Aren't you supposed to be

on your way to new york?

I decided I didn't wanna

move to new york.

Well, what about the promotion?

I pitched lexington the idea

that instead of

just staging houses,

we would also stage houses

for families at christmas.

He loved it,

and he wants me to head up

the expansion here in denver.

So you're staying here?

What's the point of success

if you don't have someone

to share it with?

Merry christmas, lori.

Merry christmas.

♪♪

sally loves my room!

Let's go open

some more presents.

[giggling]

♪♪

Staging Christmas (2019) - full transcript