Designing Christmas with You (2023)

[bunniefuu]

Yes, we want the sage drapes

in the living room

and the egg shell ones

in the bedroom.

Yes, exactly.

- Merry Christmas.

- Merry Christmas!

Yeah, we want your space

to feel elevated,

but not overpowered.

Exactly.

Brian, I am so excited

about these designs.

They're amazing.

Um, and so, my assistant

will swing by later today.

She's incredible.

You will love her.

Okay, great.

I will talk to you soon.

Double shot oat milk latte

with a teaspoon of honey.

You're the best.

Okay, so, everything is set up

for Brian Andrew's place.

Yes.

And just call me

if you need anything.

Okay.

Oh, also, Mallory was looking...

- Colbie.

- ...for you.

- Hey!

- Good morning, Colbie.

Good morning.

So good news and bad news.

The good.

Your designs for

the Yellowbrooke office spaces

were flawless,

and the client

couldn't be more thrilled.

Great.

And what's the bad?

Well, it's not bad per se.

You have another client

that needs you to work

up until Christmas.

Mallory, my family is coming

into town.

- I'm hosting the annual dinner.

- I know.

- My parents are moving.

- I know.

But this is a major client.

And they requested

you specifically.

Uh, who is it?

Eloise Chapman.

- The Chapman House?

- Yes.

You'll be decorating

the Chapman House

for their annual Holly Ball.

With a client like this...

well, it has partner

written all over it.

When do I start?

You're meeting Mrs Chapman

and her estate manager

tomorrow morning.

They're sending a car

to pick you up.

Details are in your inbox.

Great!

I've lost my Christmas vacation,

but it's nothing a little

retail therapy can't fix.

An incredibly healthy

way to handle things.

A little

shopping never hurt anybody,

and besides,

it's for a good cause.

I'm sponsoring two families

this Christmas.

But I have no idea where

I'm supposed to find

Starlight roller sneakers.

They were also on Remi's list.

I can send a link.

Thank you.

But I thought you

were finally gonna

get some rest this Christmas.

Well, I thought so.

But if I want to make partner,

I'm going to need to

do this design job.

And you're so talented.

There's no way the board

won't see that.

Well, I'm here.

Where?

Oh, no! Uh... I totally forgot.

I got so wrapped up in finishing

Remi's school project.

I will be there in, uh...

ASAP.

Okay.

Could I please buy

three snowballs?

- Thanks.

- There you go.

Awesome.

All right.

Just hit the bell to win

Here goes nothing.

Ah!

Huh!

- Thank-you.

- No worries.

Oh!

I am so sorry!

Oh, I am... I am...

No, no. It... It's...

- I'm so... no, no, no.

- It's all right. It's all right.

The snow...

You've got quite an arm on you.

I mean, the aim could

use a little work.

You know what? Uh, hey.

Can I get another flight of

snowballs for the lovely lady?

'Cause I feel like I might

have gotten in the way

of that last one.

No, I should be

buying you the snowball.

No. It's for

a good cause, right?

Right.

Let's see what you got.

It's close, right?

You know what I think

might be going on here?

What?

I never played team sports?

Oh, I mean, no. I, uh...

I think you might just

be holding on a little tight.

Yeah.

May I?

Please.

- I'm going to need that hand.

- Mm.

All right, so, just gotta loosen

up on the reigns a little bit.

Yeah.

There you go, right?

Okay.

Aim over there.

Nice and careful.

Pull that back.

And just trust the process.

Okay.

Yes!

Hey, see? You're a natural.

- Oh. Um...

- You get a bear?

- Thank you.

- Oh, that's nice.

- What a beauty.

- Oh, this is so sweet.

- My niece will love this.

- That's cute.

Well, thank you

for the sports lesson.

It's nothing.

Hey, um...

Colbie!

Hi.

Oh. Um, sorry. That's my sister.

- Yeah.

- So, I'd better get going.

Yeah.

Thank you.

Okay.

The house has, like,

37 bedrooms.

I know you're not being literal

but that's...

that's far too many.

I know. They're retiring.

They should be downsizing.

I mean, they've been

empty-nesters for over a decade,

it's about time.

I do agree, but...

I don't know, there's something

so wonderful about...

living in the country.

I mean, right?

Yeah, it sounds like

it's a wonderful life.

Speaking of wonderful lives.

Who was that guy

you were speaking with?

That was just some guy I...

accidentally threw

a snowball at.

- Oh.

- Yeah.

- As you do.

- As you do.

Cute bear.

Cute Snowball Man give you that?

I won it for Remi.

That's very kind of you.

Now, family dinner.

- Mm-hmm?

- Do you need me to take over?

No. No, I think I can do it.

I just... you know,

I just want it to be perfect

before Mom and Dad leave.

I'm sure it will be.

Right this way, my dear.

Just put your bag down.

- Make yourself comfortable.

- Oh, great.

Thank you.

As you can see, we take our

heritage very seriously here.

The Chapman House is one

of the oldest in town,

and it's been in my family

for over five generations.

Wow.

- It's beautiful.

- Hm.

We love it.

I'd love for you to meet

my estate manager.

Colbie, meet Ben Thurston.

Oh.

Hi.

Hi.

You two know each other?

We met at the Christmas

market yesterday.

- Oh.

- He helped me with my aim.

How festive.

Now, as for the brief,

Ben will give you all

the information that you need.

We're after something cohesive,

yet fresh, fun, elevated.

Ben knows what we're after.

Um, Mrs. Chapman...

I'm so sorry, dear.

Ben, would you mind

finishing the tour?

I need to check in

with the gardeners

about the chaos

in the greenhouse.

Now, if you have any questions,

just ask Ben.

He knows the estate

better than anyone.

You know, sometimes,

I think he knows it

even better than myself.

- Bye-bye.

- Uh... oh.

Okay.

Well.

Well.

It is nice to meet you

again, Ben.

- And you... Colbie?

- Mm-hmm.

Colbie.

Um, so... uh, the tour.

Yeah. Let me...

- let me show you around.

- Great.

- Can I take your coat?

- Sure. That'd be lovely.

So the house was built

in 1889 by Mavis Chapman,

who was a real-estate tycoon

known for her incredible

art collection.

- Hmm.

- ...and impeccable taste.

She was an philanthropist

so she started the Holly Ball

as a way to give back

to the community.

Oh man, she was

really something.

Uh-huh.

All right.

Now, normally,

the Chapman Foundation

selects a national charity

to partner with.

But this year,

we're raising money

for a local children's hospital

particularly close

to Mrs. Chapman's heart.

So we're trying to make this

the best Holly Ball ever.

- Right this way.

- Okay.

Through here is the ball room.

It's always a lot of fun,

but also it's a really great

place for the donors to meet

the families of the people

who they help to support.

They can talk about all

the amazing things

that are being done

with their donations.

This is the main event,

where the magic's gonna happen.

Thanks.

Now, over the years,

Mrs. Chapman's had some

incredible designers.

Now we've got you.

You're gonna be just as amazing.

- So, welcome.

- Thank you.

But that still doesn't explain

why Mrs. Chapman requested me.

Specifically.

No. Well, I don't know

for certain.

But I'm guessing the other

designers weren't available.

Oh.

Thank you for keeping

my ego in check.

Well, as soon as I get

that design brief,

then I can get started.

We have a lot of work

ahead of us.

Um, okay, so, about that.

- Yeah.

- Uh...

I do have a few thoughts

about the decor for the event.

I'll just get them to you

and we can...

Oh, no, that's okay.

I don't need them. I'm...

No, I know. It's just that

I know the place really well.

Yeah, I know design really well.

Absolutely.

It's just, Mrs. Chapman wants me

to oversee the thing.

It needs to have

a traditional feel...

She's also looking for fresh.

- She did say that but...

- Great.

Hmm.

Now, the design brief...

would be great.

Oh, yes. Yes. That is...

Where did I put...

- In my office.

- Great.

Just this way.

All right.

I just saw it here this morning.

Nope.

Not in here.

Mm...

No.

Oh!

A-ha! Here we go.

Yep, this is it.

Uh, there.

Ah.

Is there... is there

a digital copy?

Uh...

I can get a digital copy to K&S

at the request of

your boss if you like,

but everything you need

should be right in here.

- Okay.

- There you go.

Oh, also, I put my thoughts

in there,

so you can stew on those.

Oh, while you're here,

I might give you this,

the Chapman family

Holly Ball album

for some inspiration.

- Great.

- All right.

Okay, I will get these

straightened out.

All right, well,

I'll walk you out.

u

Yes.

We are as well, Mrs. Chapman.

Thank you.

I will.

Bye.

Wonderful job today.

I have a call this afternoon

with the board.

We're discussing

your promotion to partner.

Wow.

That's really exciting.

I'll leave you to it.

Thank you, Mallory.

Right. Okay.

The brief.

Let's see what you got, Ben.

Oh, absolutely not.

What are you thinking?

You've reached Ben Thurston

of the Chapman House.

I'm not available

to take your call right now.

So, please...

Hello... Oh, good, Ben.

- You're still here.

- Yes.

Oh, you know what?

I'm just... just tidying up

- Give me a moment.

- Yeah, sure.

There we go.

Uh, what can I do for you?

Well, I just wanna know

if everything went well today.

Yeah... Yes, but if you've got

a moment, Mrs. Chapman...

- Mm-hmm.

- ...I just wanna talk to you.

I just wanna

preface this by saying

I trust and respect

your judgment of course.

But Ms. Clark...

Colbie...

why her?

You know, her designs

are quite different

to the things

we've had in the past.

I know.

I like that.

Uh... Why the big change?

Why now?

It's time.

Hm.

Do you have

a problem with that, Ben?

- No, uh...

- Good. Good.

Then please assist Ms. Clark

with anything that she needs.

I want this year's ball

to be extra special.

Okay. Thank you.

Of course.

What did that

frosting ever do to you?

Sorry.

This new job is giving

me a run for my money.

Why is that?

So, do you remember

the cute snowball guy?

Yeah.

Turns out he is

the estate manager

for the Chapman House.

And, yes, he is cute,

but he is also opinionated,

and he fancies

himself a designer.

He's still kind of cute, though.

Yeah, I have no idea

why Mrs. Chapman even hired me.

Why don't you just ask her?

I tried.

I just... I don't want

to seem ungrateful.

You know what's even

more annoying?

Is that I really liked

him when I met him.

I mean, we sparked.

I never spark.

Turns out first

impressions can be wrong.

You just need to

put your head down,

do this design, get in and out.

You deal with difficult

clients all the time.

You're right.

Yeah, I am giving him

way too much power.

Mm-hmm.

And you're using

way too much frosting.

Ooh.

Someone's in a good mood.

Oh, I'm sorry.

I didn't know you were still up.

We're both searching for

a midnight snack it seems.

Well, I made

enough to share, so...

Ah, your famous cacio e pepe.

Just trying to remember

if I could still make it.

This was Layla's favorite

dish back in the day.

Mm! Yeah, I remember.

She, uh...

She begged me to make it

the night before

she left for London.

And I don't think

we've had it since.

- No, I don't think we have.

- Hmm.

Did she tell you

she's coming back?

No.

Yeah, she flies in just

before the ball.

Oh.

Oh, that's, uh... That's great.

I've not seen her

in a long time.

Yeah, it's been far too long.

- Yeah.

- Mm. Well, thank you.

That was just what

the doctor ordered.

Good night.

- Good night.

Ah! Hi, darling'.

Mom. What you doing?

Just getting a head-start

on the packing.

No time like the present.

What can I do for you?

I have a question.

Um, are you familiar

with the Chapman House?

Well, I've heard of it. Why?

I'm designing the decorations

for their annual Holly Ball.

What an opportunity!

Well, I was doing some research,

and came across a photo

of what looks like Grandma.

Grandma Clark? Really?

Mm-hmm!

Well, I don't know

if she had any connection

to the Chapman House,

but I know she did

do a lot of charity work.

Can you send me a photo?

Yeah, sure. Hold on.

Ah!

Oh, I can see

what you're saying.

Yeah, there is a resemblance,

but, um,

I don't know if it's her.

Hun, I don't...

Maybe it is.

I don't know.

I mean, your grandmother always

loved a good Christmas party.

Yeah, that sounds about right.

Okay. All right.

Love you, Mom.

Mallory, hi!

So, big news.

The Chronicle

wants to do a profile

on you and the Chapman House.

Whoa. That's huge.

The biggest publicity

the firm's received.

So apparently, they would

like to send a journalist out

in the next few days

to interview you.

This reporter, Reggie,

I know the board of K&S

reads everything she puts out.

So just make sure that

Chapman House design is perfect.

Got it. I am on top of it.

Oh,

and can you remind the client

to send over the brief?

We still haven't

received anything.

- You haven't?

- No.

That's not exactly surprising.

What do you mean?

He just has an unconventional

organizational style is all.

And, uh, yeah, I'll have

him send it over.

Okay. Thanks, Colbie.

Congratulations.

We are not doing this.

Colbie, I know this house.

This brief goes against

everything Mrs. Chapman wants.

No, it builds upon it.

Ah, quite the opposite.

It puts it to sleep.

- Snooze fest.

- Painful.

This does not make a statement.

Don't believe we need

to make a statement.

I mean...

We need to respect the integrity

and the traditions

of this estate.

This is subtle.

This is exactly what

this house actually needs.

Okay, fine.

You do the decorating.

Uh, where are you... Wait!

Look, we both know that

Mrs. Chapman wants

you to design ball.

Well, then let me

design the ball!

I am! It's just,

this one has to be perfect.

And that's exactly

what I'm aiming for.

You don't understand.

Mrs. Chapman

doesn't realize that...

Um... Uh...

No, no. It's a long story.

You don't...

Hmm.

Do you want to talk about it?

No.

Okay.

Look, I was doing

some research last night,

and in the past years,

there's a direct

correlation between

strong themes

and higher donor bids.

- Hmm.

- So, I say we really go for it.

Elegant,

sophisticated, original.

I... I don't know.

It just... It just feels...

A lot?

Good, because it is a lot.

But I think that's exactly

what you guys need.

I'm not following.

Foundation hasn't been doing

well as it has in the past.

What?

The Chapman family has

been bleeding money to keep up.

I didn't know about this.

I think that's why

Mrs. Chapman hired me,

to shake things up,

help her get new donors on board

so she can continue helping

as many charities as possible.

And I really want to be

able to do that for her.

Me too. More than ever.

You... You don't understand.

W... Whatever we do...

this has to be

a ball to remember.

With your knowledge

of this house and my skills,

I think we can do just that.

Maybe even do it

better together.

"Together"?

Together.

But we only have a few

days to pull this off.

So, if we're really

going to do this,

we both need to be

on the same page.

Yeah, agreed.

Good. Grab your coat.

Um... Yeah.

So what's this plan?

We're going to create

a whole new mood board together.

Hmm. Um...

Couldn't we have just

done this back in the office?

- Just go with me for a second.

- Ok.

So we're going to find

things that inspire us,

and then we're going to pool

your items and my items together

to create a whole new theme.

- Okay. Sounds... creative.

- Thank you.

I use it with

my most difficult clients.

Um, noted.

So how'd you come up

with this whole thing?

Well, early on in my career,

I was working with this woman

who wanted me to redo

her twin sons' bedrooms,

and she had fired

her last three designers.

No pressure, right?

So, after three weeks

of us just getting nowhere,

I had her take me to

every store she liked

and pick out items

that she was drawn to.

And then from there,

I was able to

figure out her preferences,

and then create a design

that her whole family loved.

So you're stubborn.

You don't quit.

Something like that.

So?

What do you think?

That's great.

I love it.

Kind of reminds me of Walters.

Walters?

Oh, yeah.

This is this cool vintage

store on the edge of town.

The owner, Walter, he has

one of basically everything.

So if you ever need something,

yeah, he's going to have it.

I should take you sometime.

I'd love that.

Think you would.

Okay, so, um, we have five rooms

and the exterior

to do in less than a week.

Shall we get started?

Great idea. After you.

All right, so first up,

wrapping paper.

Ah-ha.

- Hi.

- Hi.

Phew!

Do you see anything you like?

Yes, I do.

Hmm.

Okay, on the count of three,

point to yours.

Oh.

One, two, three.

I don't hate it.

Oh, you don't hate it? Great.

Hi.

Um, could we please

have a sample

of the one with the gold stars

and the burlap sack thing?

"Burlap sack"?

Is that what we're calling that?

Yeah, that's what it is.

- Uh...

- Is it not?

- Thank you so much.

- Enjoy.

I don't get it.

No, but you will.

Come on.

Thanks.

- Hi.

- Hey.

Hi.

On the count of three.

- Ah!

- Mm.

One, two, three.

- Classic.

- Ooooh.

Um, could we please have one

candy cane

- and two marshmallows please?

- Of course.

I got it.

- That's really sweet.

- That's alright.

Thank you.

Wait. What?

Why two?

Cause they're my favorite.

Three, two, one.

Will you look at that!

- Oh!

- Sometimes...

- ...great minds think alike!

- Great minds think alike.

Jinx.

We'll take three, please.

Okay. There you go. Thank you.

Why three?

One for the ball,

one for you...

and one for me.

The first thing that

we could agree upon.

Cheers.

Hopefully to many more.

Thanks.

Hey, you coming?

- Yeah.

- Come on.

Oh, hello, you two.

Hi.

Colbie, I've had

the old decorations

bought out of storage for you.

- They're in the living room.

- Oh, great. Amazing.

I can't wait to see them.

Mrs. Chapman,

I want to talk to you...

...about...

No, I...

I'm sorry, dear,

but I'd best get this.

Oh, okay.

Is it me,

or is she... um...

acting odder than usual?

It's, uh...

Who's to say?

- Hot cocoa?

- Uh, sure.

Great.

And are you acting

odder than usual?

You okay?

Me? No, I'm fine.

You know, I've only

known you for a few days,

and I already know

that you're a terrible liar.

One of my better qualities.

Nice.

So...

What's up?

I might have applied

for a job in Tuscany.

It's this lovely little place

about an hour out of the city.

So nice. But after hearing

about the foundation,

uh, I just...

...feel a little

strange about it all.

I didn't know you were actively

trying to leave

the Chapman House.

No, it's just this one

specific property.

My grandparents met there,

and they started

a textile business.

It seemed like a good life.

Plus, I've, You know, I've been

here a few years, and, uh...

Oh.

So you don't like staying

in one place for very long?

Guess I'd like to

remain unattached.

Ah! Yeah.

So you're single.

You say that like

it's a bad thing.

No, no.

It's just an observation.

You noticing in others what

you might notice in yourself.

Is that a covert way

of asking if I'm single?

Well...

Yes.

Hmm.

You know, I have a great way

to take your mind

off of this dilemma.

Oh?

Christmas crafting.

What?

Not what you're thinking,

but I think it would be great.

Right this way.

Uh, okay.

Coming.

Must have really loved

group projects as a kid.

What gave it away?

- Did you want to get that?

- Uh, no.

Okay.

So, um...

So the Chapmans are

like family to you?

Yeah. Yeah, they are.

But what about you?

You close to your parents?

Yeah, we are.

Once a year, we do this dinner.

It's called

the "Clark Family Feast..."

...and whoever hosts has to

plan and cook the meal.

And it is my first time

hosting this year.

Oh, congratulations.

You got any idea what

you're going to be making?

No idea.

Cooking is not really my thing.

Hmm. Well.

I mean, if you need

any inspiration, uh...

cooking is kind of my thing.

Oh, is that the Italian

grandmother cookbook?

Something like that.

You know,

my favorite recipe ever

is the cacio e pepe.

Pair it with a nice dry Chianti,

and you finish with a tiramisu,

you can't go wrong.

That sounds fantastic.

It's beautiful.

Ugh, I wish I knew how to cook.

Play cards right,

I might let you in

on a few family secrets.

I would love that.

Hi.

Hello, missus and mister.

I'm Santa, and I'm selling

chocolate for my school.

Wow. They look great.

Um... How much for one of them?

Uh, two dollars.

Two dollars? Wow.

We'll take the whole box.

Really?

I like your style.

Mm.

Okay. What do you see?

Uh... That you are better at

using a glue g*n than I am.

No, we have a theme.

Oh, yeah, of course.

Which is...

obviously...

Vintage Christmas.

...Vintage Christmas.

Which I was just about to say.

With nods to the past

and lots of layered textures,

we can create an elegant

Christmas through the decades.

Okay. I will start working

on some sketches and...

come back tomorrow afternoon,

and we'll get started.

That sounds great.

Yeah. I'll see you tomorrow.

See you tomorrow.

Hmm.

This place is beautiful.

Yeah, it's nice.

The Chapmans always get their

trees from here.

So, what's your story?

I don't have a story.

Oh, everybody has a story.

So?

So, I thought my ex

was going to propose,

and instead he told me

he had a job offer in Denver,

and then he moved

the following week.

- Oh no, really?

- Yeah.

Yeah, and my life, and my

family, and my job is here...

- Sure.

- ...and so I stayed, he left.

- That's the end of that tune.

- Right.

But, you know, now that I think

about it

I don't think he was my guy.

But he was good enough, right?

- Yeah.

- Yeah.

How... How long

were you together?

Um... almost two years.

And we broke up last Christmas.

Hey, kissed any frogs

since then?

No! No, no.

I'm just so focused on

making partner.

Ooh, that sounds fancy.

No!

I mean, it is the highest...

- position at K&S Design,

- Ah-ha!

But it's all dependent

on how this job goes.

Oh! So no pressure.

Yeah, exactly.

What?

Oh, that.

Oh, no.

No way.

- Wait, what? I mean...

- I mean...

I mean, no.

- Yeah, no. Sure.

- Yeah, sure.

No, no.

- Just here?

- Yeah. Yep, yep, yep

Alright.

There we go.

Great.

Oh.

- Huh.

- Tuscany job

or secret girlfriend?

I don't have

a secret girlfriend.

And I don't have

the job yet either.

Operative word being "yet."

So, um...

What do you think

about a tree-topper?

I was thinking an angel.

I was originally

thinking a star.

Of course.

I... I could do an angel.

Really?

Okay, well, I was...

I was thinking,

you know, like a vintage angel

that has texture and history.

- No, I like that.

- Yeah.

Yeah, leave that with me.

All right?

Okay, great.

And what about mistletoe?

I was thinking, um...

- Why don't we put it up here?

- ...there.

Hey!

Look at us.

Look at us.

Well, the Clark Family Feast

isn't going to make itself,

So I should probably get going.

Oh, did you land on a recipe?

No, I was just going to

go to the grocery store

and raid the hot bar.

I mean,

that sounds like cheating.

Yeah, they're not going to know.

I mean, I...

I... I could help you

if you want.

Really?

You want to help me make dinner?

Sure. I got nothing on tonight.

Why not, right?

I would love that.

We'll make Nana's recipe,

the one I told you about.

Well, lead the way.

All right.

Knock, knock.

- Hello. Hello.

Hey! The Christmas Clarks

have arrived...

Um, Mom!

Hi, Gemma, Dad!

Hey.

Um... Uh, this is my...

This is Ben.

He, uh...

He works for the Chapman House.

Hi. Nice to meet you.

And are you, um,

staying for dinner?

Uh...

No, I don't want to impose.

Oh, it's no imposition.

Yeah, no, no, we insist, Ben.

I mean, it is

your family recipe.

Yeah. Um, okay.

Okay, great.

Heavenly Father,

we thank you

for our time together

and for what this time

of year represents.

Please bless this food.

Let it nourish our bodies.

In our Lord's name we pray.

Amen.

- Amen.

- Let's eat.

Why is Santa so good at karate?

Because he has a black belt.

Cheers!

That was so fun.

I can't believe

we pulled that off.

I know.

Thank you for making my first

time hosting such a big success.

Oh, please. It's all you.

I just...

just happy to be part of it.

Your family is the best.

Yeah, they are.

They really are.

And they liked you a lot.

- Yeah?

- Oh, yeah.

I guess it's getting late,

so I should...

I should probably...

Right.

No, definitely.

But I'll be there in

the morning to set up,

and everything I ordered

should have been delivered,

so it's time to decorate.

Yeah.

Oh! I forgot.

I got that Esposito villa

interview in the morning.

Time zones and whatnot.

Oh, right.

Um...

Well, then maybe you can

join me after you book the job.

Yeah, something like that.

Yeah.

All right, well,

have a good night.

Good night.

And with my Master's degree

in historic preservation

and my experience

in art history,

maintaining the villa's

cultural integrity

is the utmost importance to me

as it is in all the properties

that I managed.

And when

are you available to start?

I mean, we would

love to get someone in

at the top of the new year.

Oh, I'm sorry, I was

under the impression

that this job didn't

start until this summer.

Uh, see, we had

to move up the timeline a bit.

Is that going to be an issue?

Uh...

What do you say?

I mean, can we consider

you as a top candidate

to manage the Esposito villa?

Of course. Certainly.

Thank you.

That's wonderful news.

Thanks a lot for that

and have a good day.

Ciao.

- Hi.

- Hi.

Um, are those for me?

I'm afraid we're closed

to tourists, ma'am.

- Want a hand with those?

- I would love that.

Vintage Christmas, here we come.

Oh.

- Hi.

- Ha!

You know what? I think

this turned out pretty great.

Yeah, I think it did.

Okay. One room down,

four more to go.

Yeah, but first, lunch.

I don't know about you,

but I am starving.

Me, too.

Yeah, let's do it.

Any ideas about the entry way?

So I was thinking

something, but...

it might be a little crazy.

Picking up that's

kind of your thing.

Well, that's what makes me

a great designer.

That's true.

So what I was thinking

is Vintage Christmas,

and I want something

cozy in the beginning,

you know, like candles

and soft lighting.

And it's kind of like,

when you wake up

in the middle of the night

on Christmas Eve

and checking to see if Santa

had arrived yet,

and the only light you see

are the Christmas tree lights

and the presents

and little cookie crumbs

that Santa had just left.

That's what I want

it to feel like.

I love that.

Yeah, and I was thinking,

um, the entryway

would be Christmas Eve,

and the rest of the rooms

would be Christmas morning.

And I'm going to

sketch something out,

and then run it by you

and see what you think.

Sounds perfect.

Great.

Um, so I'm going to get

started in the ballroom.

You know what? I'll just

fix a couple of things here.

- I'll be right with you. Okay.

- Okay. Sounds great.

Okay.

Look at all this!

Hi, Mrs. Chapman.

Oh, it looks so festive.

Oh, thank you.

I know it's different

from what you're used to.

Well, different is why

we hired you.

Right. About that.

Um, I'm really curious as to...

Oh, I'm so sorry, my dear,

but I really must

attend to this.

Ah!

Hi.

How long have you

been standing there?

Sorry, I didn't mean

to scare you.

You have a beautiful voice.

Oh, um...

Um... that must

be the journalist.

Journalist?

I was thrilled when

Mrs. Chapman asked me

to design her annual Holly Ball.

And I know what an important

charity event this is.

Mrs. Chapman,

she wanted me to make sure

that this is the best one

that they've ever done.

So she hired this designer,

a new designer

called Colbie Clark,

to put a plan together.

And so I created

a Vintage Christmas theme

in collaboration with

the estate manager,

Ben Thurston.

So tell me more about

working with Mr. Thurston.

Well...

So, Colbie...

Sorry. Ms. Clark, she had

some great ideas,

but they're pretty different

to what we're used to here.

And it was my job to make sure

it fit the traditional

aesthetic of the property.

So this was your vision?

Uh, no. I wouldn't say that.

Together we blended our styles

to create a newer, sleeker,

cottage core aesthetic

to make this year's Holly Ball

a night to remember.

It was an honor to meet her

- and work with her...

- Thank you.

That's all we have time for.

No, but I was just

getting to the part about...

Well, I have everything

I need, Mr. Thurston.

So, how did it go

with the journalist?

Uh, good, I think.

- You?

- Yeah, great. Same.

Tonight, um...

You got any plans?

Oh, I... I was just going

to grab some dinner,

but do you want to join?

Uh...

Yeah, that'd be great.

Great.

Oh, sorry,

we're closed for tourist.

Ben. Hi.

Layla!

Oh, my gosh.

Hi. You must be Colbie.

My mom's told me

so much about you.

Oh, I'm sorry. This is Layla.

This is Mr. and Mrs.

Chapman's daughter.

Nice to meet you.

You, too.

Hey, help me unload?

Then maybe we can

make your cacio e pepe?

I heard you recently

revived the recipe.

I did but...

We were just actually thinking...

I'm going to get

out of your hair.

I feel like you guys

have a lot to catch up on.

And, um, I'll...

I'll see you later.

And it was really nice

meeting you, Layla.

Okay. Bye.

Colbie...

So, you guys have done

a fantastic job in here.

Uh, yeah.

Hey, darling.

Hi, mom.

How's it going with

the Chapman House?

I... I don't know.

It's, uh...

It's silly.

You have a crush on him.

I do not.

Oh, I saw the way you were

looking at him at dinner.

I was not.

And he was looking at

you the exact same way.

He was?

No. No, mom.

Pretty sure he likes

Mrs. Chapman's daughter.

Are you sure about that?

Also, we're just...

We couldn't be more opposite.

What?

When I met your father,

we had a 20-minute

heated discussion

about whether crepes

were a breakfast food

or an any-time-of-day food.

Let me guess.

He thought they were

an any-time-of-day food?

So we agreed to disagree,

and I thought

I'd never see him again.

But then he turned up

at church a week later

with a crepe

wrapped in a red bow,

with this card that said,

"Only good before noon."

I knew I had met my match.

So sometimes

opposites do attract.

You won't know unless you put

yourself out there, honey.

And I know it can be scary,

but if you want my advice,

love is always worth the risk.

Thanks, mom.

I love you.

Okay. Any details?

Not much to tell, really.

Other than the fact that

you have a crush

on the designer?

What? No.

I saw it the moment I walked in.

I don't know what

you're talking about.

Ben!

You know you're like

a brother to me, right?

And as your honorary sister,

I'm emotionally invested

in your happiness.

I appreciate that, but I could

be just both single and happy.

- So.

- Yeah, I know you can.

It's just...

I don't want you to

hold yourself back

because you're scared to

let someone really see you.

Duly noted. Thank you.

You're a great guy, Ben.

And you deserve to be happy.

Like, really,

truly, fully happy.

All right, great.

Thank you. I...

Enough about me.

What you got going on?

What? No!

Did Liam finally propose?

We haven't really

told anybody yet.

I mean, besides my parents,

who were thrilled.

I'm so happy for you.

Thank you.

I think you should

ask Colbie out.

I don't know.

She's kinda...

Stunning?

Put together? Talented?

Yeah.

Yeah, she's all those things.

Do you need another reason?

We should go.

Come on. Pick up.

Yeah, Walter? Yes.

Yeah, it's Ben.

No, I'm fine.

I'm fine.

I'm sorry to be calling

so late in the night.

You know how you said

you can get anything right?

Uh-huh?

Are you still in the office?

That's great.

Uh, look, I got a really big

favor to ask you.

Okay?

Oh!

Ben!

You should just tell her.

Yeah, right. I'll tell her.

Come on.

Hey, Ben.

I wanted to show you my design.

"I don't know what to say,

I'm going away to Italy.

But I have feelings for you.

That you're the best thing that

ever happend to me.

You're smart...

beautiful...

stubborn.

Yeah.

Exactly that.

I guess it's a little

late for that.

You'll never know

if you don't try.

Look, I know it's scary

putting yourself out there,

but...

Christmas is the most

wonderful time of the year.

If not now, when?

Colbie...

Colbie.

Colbie?

Oh, Colbie,

I'm glad you're here.

This just arrived.

Oh!

That is a lovely touch.

I wanted to do something

special for the foundation,

and, you know,

I hope the kids like it.

Well, you know, my motto is,

"If you have more than you need,

then build a bigger

table so more can join."

I love that.

That's beautiful.

I learned that

from your grandmother.

Abigail Clark was

an incredible woman.

When I realized

that the foundation

needed a bit of a boost,

I asked myself,

"What would Abigail do?"

We met, both volunteering

at a youth center

when I was in college

and she had just retired.

Her eye for charity

and her heart for giving

defined my approach to

the Chapman Foundation.

But, you know, these last

few years, it's been tough.

And when I realized I needed

some help, I sought out you,

her granddaughter.

So that's why you hired me/

You're so lucky

you got to know her.

I...

I never really knew her.

Well, from what I can tell,

you're a lot like her.

Thank you.

Oh, it's nice having

a Clark back in my life.

Thank you,

very much Mrs. Chapman

- Thank you Colbie

- Thank you. Okay.

Colbie?

Oh, Mrs. Chapman.

Have you seen Colbie?

Well, you just missed her.

Huh. Oh No

Colbie, there you are.

- I got a surprise for you.

- Oh, uh...

Just... I have so much

work I have to do.

Ah, no, no, no. Come with me.

But close your eyes.

Can this wait till later?

No, no. Come with me.

Just let everything go

a little bit and trust me.

All right. You got them closed?

Yeah, I got them closed.

- Don't open them.

- I'm not.

Here we are.

All right, ready?

- Three, two, one.

- Okay.

Ben, how did you...

Uh, your plans

were very thorough.

This must have

taken you all night.

Thank you.

I love this.

I'm glad.

And we're still putting

the finishing touches

on the grand entrance,

but other than

a few minor details,

we're almost finished.

Well, hang on, Colbie.

What I have here is that

you were meant to decorate

the ballroom, the kitchen,

the study, foyer, dining room,

and the master bedroom.

That's six rooms.

You've only shown me five.

Well, uh, from my understanding,

it was five, plus the exterior,

No, no, no.

It clearly says here

that it's six.

Well, the brief

that I got said five.

The brief that Ben finally

emailed to me said six.

So whoever gave you

your information was incorrect.

Colbie, is there something

else going on here?

Because we can't have

the professional integrity

of this firm being compromised.

Oh, no, I totally understand.

And it won't be...

Okay, well, I have to run,

but I will see you

and the sixth room tonight.

Okay. Bye.

Colbie?

Ah, Colbie, there you are

What are you doing?

What is all this?

I'm decorating the last room.

Last room? What do you mean?

I'm supposed to decorate

six rooms, not five.

No, I don't think that's right.

The brief that you

finally emailed Mallory

said six rooms, not five.

Why didn't you tell me

about the last room?

What? No.

I don't know what

you're talking about.

Can you tell me

what's going on here?

Reggie just sent me her

article...

What?

"While Klein and Smith's

designer, Colbie Clark,

was hired to do the design,

it was estate manager,

Ben Thurston,

who ensured the design aligned

with the Chapman's vision

to deliver a night to remember."

No, no, no.

Why would you say that

we did this together?

I must have been misquoted.

I wouldn't have told her that.

I...

I mean, I might have mentioned

Mrs. Chapman had

put me in charge

of overseeing the project.

No, but... No, but I told her

this all came from

your creativity,

your inspiration, your vision.

I said that lot's of times...

This seems a bit

above misquoting, Ben.

I was nervous.

I'd never done these before.

I just wanted

Mrs. Chapman to understand

how much this all meant to me,

if this is going to

be the last... one.

Wow.

So this wasn't about us

doing it together at all.

- That's not it.

- No, no, no.

Because you have the article

and you didn't tell me

about this last room.

Have you even told Mrs. Chapman

that you're leaving?

So...

You are leaving.

I overheard you, the other day.

You left the door open.

No, see, see,

I can explain this.

We have more than

a hundred guests coming

to hopefully support

our foundation

in a matter of hours.

We can talk about

this matter later.

Ben, I'm so sorry.

I didn't know that she was...

standing there.

Hey.

I'm sorry to bother you.

I know everything's

a little crazy right now,

but, um, this just came for you.

Oh. The tree topper.

It's from this cool

antique store in town.

It's one of Ben's favorites.

- Ah, well, Thank you.

- Yeah, sure.

Look, Ben...

If this is what you really want.

I don't know if this

is what I really want.

That's not a problem.

You know,

if you want to go to Italy

to see where

your family came from,

to spread your wings

a little bit,

I understand. I do.

I just wish you'd told me first.

I'd have given you

a glowing recommendation.

I know.

Uh, I'm sorry.

You always have

a place here, Ben.

You're family.

But if you do decide to leave,

we will fully support you.

You gonna get that?

Yeah. Sorry. Hang on.

Hi. Could you hold a moment?

Thank you.

I got a problem

I really gotta make right.

Colbie?

Journalist.

Well, if you want me to

make a comment as well,

I'd be happy to do so.

Thank you.

Mrs. Chapman, I'm...

I'm so sorry that I didn't

come to you straight away.

Oh, dear Ben, it's okay.

Hi, Reggie.

Thanks for holding.

I was hoping

I could talk to you...

about the article

that you wrote.

You know, Grandma Clark,

and how she was volunteering

at the youth center?

I love my job at K&S, but...

I just sometimes feel

like I could be doing more.

You know?

We could all be doing

more to give back.

I think the first step

is realizing that.

You don't need to make

any decisions tonight.

Just go and enjoy the ball.

What is it, honey?

I'm just not ready

to see him tonight.

Not after everything that has

happened.

I think you should give him

a little grace, honey.

He wasn't intentionally

trying to hurt you.

I think

we're way past that, Mom.

Well...

Honey, do you want him

in your life?

Because it seems to me

you've met someone

who lights you up inside,

who challenges you creatively,

and who makes you happy.

You should at least talk to him.

Go to the ball

and enjoy yourself.

I love you.

I love you more.

I mean...

Wow. You look, uh...

You look really handsome.

Everyone, may I have

your attention, please?

As you know, our Holly Ball

is held every year

to give back to those in need.

This year, our ball was designed

by a brand new,

wonderful designer,

Colbie Clark.

Thank you, Colbie.

And I want to thank all of you,

each and every one of you,

our generous donors,

from the bottom of our hearts.

Thank you very much.

As we all know

Christmas is the season

for family, for connection,

celebrating those around us,

opening our hearts to love

and giving thanks for the many

blessings we have in our lives.

I want to take this moment

to wish you all

a very Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas.

I'll talk to you later.

I love that angel.

Oh, thank you.

I can't take credit for it.

That was... That was all Ben.

He's really great at his job,

and your family

means the world to him.

And he us.

This is a truly

wonderful ball, Colbie.

Thank you.

I just... I wanted to do what

I could to help your foundation.

What you do is...

is so inspiring.

Thank you, dear.

["Deck the Halls" playin

- Wow. You did a wonderful job.

- Thank you.

I spoke with

Mrs. Chapman earlier.

How would you feel about heading

up an official partnership

between K&S

and the Chapman Foundation,

but one focused on charities,

giving back to the community.

Um...

Th... That sounds amazing.

And I just got off

the phone with the board,

and they are ready to make

you a partner right now.

I'm sorry.

I don't understand...

The article?

That's what pushed them

over the edge.

It was republished.

Congratulations.

Thank you.

What?

"Design led by

Colbie of K&S Design

is a blend

of the past and present."

"I was instantly inspired by

the lengths Ms. Clark would go

to bring her clients'

visions to life."

"'I am honored to have met her, '

said estate manager,

Ben Thurston."

Congratulations.

Little birdie told me about

you becoming partner.

You really deserve it.

I couldn't have...

done this without you.

I couldn't have done

any of this without you.

No... Thank you, Colbie.

Because of you, this place

has never looked better.

I think the angel was

a really nice touch.

I'm just glad you liked it.

Hey, been meaning to say that

I'm so sorry about that article.

It didn't come off

the way I wanted it to.

Ben. Than you for getting it

re-published

Because of you, I...

I made partner.

It's the least I could do.

And what about you?

Did you get the job?

I, uh...

I got it.

Oh.

That's great.

Congratulations, Ben

I turned it down.

Oh?

Yeah, I think

I might just stay here.

You know?

Maybe it's time for me to

finally become...

attached.

Plus, I want to help

the foundation grow

and make sure

that our new partner

has everything that she needs.

Yeah.

And maybe...

find someone...

to be attached to.

Oh.

Um...

You and Layla.

What?

Why would you say that?

Um, I.. I heard you guys

talking in the kitchen.

Oh.

Right.

Yeah.

I was talking about you.

Colbie Clark.

You are stubborn...

and smart.

You're incredibly talented...

and breathtakingly beautiful.

And I would very much

like to kiss you right now.

Oh, I would very much

like that too.

I'm really glad

we compromised on this.

Guess we're better together.

We are.

This is definitely

a ball to remember.