Christmas by Design

Charlotte is a workaholic NYC fashion designer whose brand, Alistair, is struggling due to inflation and a lack of inspiration. When a pipe bursts in her boutique, ruining her inventory and leaving her without water, she is forced to return to her hometown of Brooksbend. Simultaneously, she is accepted into the Warwick’s Christmas Design Challenge, which requires her to design two festive, family-oriented outfits in just eight days—a far cry from her usual luxury aesthetic. On her way home, she has a minor car accident with Spencer, a local mechanic who is a widower and a dedicated community volunteer. Spencer agrees to help Charlotte find inspiration by taking her to the 'Elfcapades,' a 12-day Christmas festival founded by Charlotte's late father, Gregory. Charlotte acts as Spencer's 'buffer' against the town's single women, while Spencer serves as her fit model and creative muse. As they spend time together, Charlotte learns that the current Mayor, her ex-boyfriend Evan, is cutting the funding for the Elfcapades, threatening her father's legacy. Charlotte also grapples with deep-seated guilt for having prioritized her career over being present during her father's final days. The romance between Charlotte and Spencer blossoms, culminating in a kiss during a 'mistletoe tie-breaker' at Christmas Bingo. However, a conflict arises when Spencer overhears Charlotte discussing the impossibility of a long-distance relationship with a 'local mechanic' with her friend Margo. Feeling insulted, Spencer distances himself. Charlotte eventually reconciles with her sister Christina and her mother, admitting her grief and workaholism. When her original pajama designs are ruined, she collaborates with her family to create 'Christmas Coveralls'—a tribute to both her father and Spencer. On Christmas Eve, Charlotte travels to NYC for the fashion show but realizes her priorities have shifted. She leaves the show before it begins to return to Brooksbend for the 'Pajamboree.' She confesses her love to Spencer, and they reconcile. Roger Warwick calls her, revealing that he was so impressed by her bold choice to prioritize family and her unique coverall designs that he is offering her the contract and allowing her to move her headquarters to Brooksbend.