Under the Christmas Tree

Camden, Maine serves as the film's central setting, a town rooted in holiday commerce and close-knit community. The Beltran family's century-old Christmas goods business anchors the story and the annual gingerbread competition adds a local festive flavor. The state capital, Augusta, hosts the ceremonial tree-lighting, framing the town's holiday pageantry within a broader regional context. The plot also touches on plans to move operations to Arizona, highlighting a clash between tradition and modernization.

💞 Romance

A slow-burn romance develops between Charlie and Alma amid holiday pressures and conflicting loyalties. Their growing connection softens professional boundaries and reframes what is at stake beyond securing the perfect tree. The story uses their relationship to explore how love can navigate duty, tradition, and personal values.

⚖️ Duty vs. Dream

Characters confront a tension between preserving a family legacy and pursuing modernization. Alma wants to protect the family business's traditions, while Charlie pursues a broader, future-oriented solution. The ethical choices about property, signatures, and community impact drive the dramatic current of the film.

🌳 Conservation

Environmental themes surface through the reforestation effort and the search for a viable alternative tree. The narrative links personal relationships to stewardship of natural resources, underscoring the idea that true progress honors both people and the land. The eventual plan centers on sustainable solutions rather than unilateral decisions.

🎁 Community & Holiday Spirit

Festive traditions—gingerbread decorating, the pâtisserie gatherings, and the tree-lighting ceremony—bind the town together. The story uses these communal rituals to emphasize belonging, generosity, and the joy of shared celebrations. The resolution reinforces the town’s sense of identity and mutual support.