A Royal Christmas

Emily Taylor works as a seamstress in Philadelphia, devoted to her family’s business. She is deeply in love with Leo James, her European boyfriend, and their Christmas plans hint at life-changing developments.

Leo informs Emily that he is actually Prince Leopold, heir to the throne of Cordinia. He explains the royal duties and family expectations that come with his position.

Leo brings Emily to Cordinia for the Christmas holidays, where she is introduced to his mother, Queen Isadora. The Queen immediately disapproves of the commoner girlfriend.

In the town near the castle, Emily befriends Poppy, a little orphan girl, showing her kindness and generosity. Her warmth contrasts with royal formality.

Emily also befriends Galina, the Baroness of Newbury, who explains that she too rose from a common background. Galina also forms a bond with Poppy.

The Queen secretly invites the duchess to the castle for Christmas, hoping to pair Leo with Natasha, a duchess she deems more suitable. Her scheming sets the stage for conflict with Emily.

With the help of head butler Victor, Emily is taught the nuances of palace etiquette and social expectations. The training helps her prepare for a true royal appearance.

Emily designs a dress herself from the Queen’s old gown and makes a grand entrance at the Christmas ball. Her poise and creativity impress some, but irritate Isadora.

Isadora discovers Emily speaking with two of the kitchen staff and fires them on the spot, highlighting the escalating tension between Emily and the court. The incident underscores the Queen's ruthlessness about status.

Leo proposes marriage, but Emily, feeling out of place among royalty, declines and decides to return to America. Her departure ends their first engagement and the fairy-tale turn.

The Queen realizes the hurt she caused and remembers her own past love for Victor. She resolves to make amends and accompanies her son and Victor to Philadelphia.

In Philadelphia, Leo re-proposes to Emily, and she accepts, recognizing their bond and the chance for a true partnership. The shift marks a reconciliation of their relationship.

Leopold and Emily marry in Philadelphia, with Poppy in attendance and the Baron and Baroness of Newbury having presumably adopted her. The film closes on a hopeful note for their blended family.