Naman Shrestha
Directed by Roger M. Bobb, Lifetime’s ‘Christmas Everyday’ is a holiday romantic drama movie that centers on a talented fashion designer named Francine “Fancy” Ballantine, who wishes to keep the legacy of her late father alive by upholding his Christmas traditions. What makes this year’s holidays all the more complicated is the deteriorating eyesight of her mother, Evelyn. On top of that, she also takes on the responsibility of planning her younger sister, Belle’s, wedding.
Belle’s plans for her big day are disrupted when a water pipe bursts, threatening to ruin the celebration altogether. In order to renovate the house and save the day, the family calls in a charming and competent contractor named Jaylen. While juggling numerous things at once, Fancy makes room for romance as she unexpectedly begins to fall in love with the contractor. By the end, the fashion designer comes to realize that faith, love, and family give true meaning to Christmas and life. A part of the ‘It’s a Wonderful Lifetime’ slate, the family drama primarily unfolds in and around Fancy’s residence against the backdrop of the holiday season.
Where Was Christmas Everyday Filmed?
The shooting for ‘Christmas Everyday’ was reportedly conducted entirely in Ontario, particularly in Toronto. According to reports, principal photography for the holiday film took place in the summer of 2025, spanning a few weeks in the months of July and August. Thanks to the vastness and versatility of Ontario, the makers were able to recreate the Southern holiday setting with the help of the province’s landscape and facilities.
Toronto, Ontario
The shooting of ‘Christmas Everyday’ took place entirely in Toronto, the capital city of Ontario province. While creating the visual aesthetic, the production team filled the filming spot with embellishments that not only complemented the holiday vibe but also enhanced the sense of nostalgia and togetherness required for bringing Francine “Fancy” Ballantine’s world to life. Accordingly, they decked up the property that stood in as Fancy’s family home with fairy lights, a Christmas tree, beautiful wreaths, vines, red ribbons, and everything else that showcases the spirit of Christmas. The decorations lit up the venue in a true holiday vibe, proving ideal for the narrative.
Over the years, Toronto has established a stature as one of the world’s major production hubs by helping shape the visual landscape of numerous movies and television shows. Therefore, aside from ‘Christmas Everyday,’ it features in the backdrop of several romantic titles such as ‘No Sleep ‘Til Christmas,’ ‘Serendipity,’ ‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,’ ‘Love, Rosie,’ ‘The Vow,’ ‘Meet Me Next Christmas,’ ”Twas the Date Before Christmas,’ ”Twas the Text Before Christmas,’ ’12 Dates of Christmas,’ ‘Let It Snow,’ and ‘Friends.’
Christmas Everyday Cast Details
The familial and wholesome tale of ‘Christmas Everyday’ was brought to life by the impressive performances of Brandy Norwood, Robert C. Riley, and Sy’rai Iman Smith. Also known as “The Vocal Bible,” Brandy is also a singer-songwriter with many R&B albums to her name. Interestingly, Sy’rai is Brandy’s daughter, who has worked with her mother on her song called Cinderella Medley.
Brandy Norwood as Francine “Fancy” Ballantine
Brandy Norwood plays the role of Francine “Fancy” Ballantine, the fashion designer, in ‘Christmas Everyday.’ Hailing from McComb, Mississippi, she is widely recognized for her portrayal of Karla Wilson in ‘I Still Know What You Did Last Summer’ and ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer.’ She also features in ‘Moesha’ as Moesha Mitchell, ‘Descendants: The Rise of Red’ as Cinderella, ‘Queens’ as Naomi, and ‘Star’ as Cassie Brown.
Robert C. Riley as Jaylen
Robert C. Riley steps into the role of Jaylen, the rugged yet charming contractor and Fancy’s love interest, in the Lifetime production. You might find his face familiar as he features in the 2009 film ‘As Cool as Jennifer: Volume 2’ as one of the guards. He is also known for portraying Terrence Wall in ‘Hit The Floor,’ Michael Culhane in ‘Dynasty,’ Roy Booker in ‘Elementary,’ and Chance Worley in ‘The Game.’
Sy’rai Iman Smith as Belle
Although Sy’rai Iman Smith is Brandy’s real-life daughter, she portrays her mother’s character’s babysister, Belle, in the holiday movie. Following in the footsteps of Brandy, Sy’rai has released various singles like “On My Own,” “Not About You,” and “Bad Guy,” and collaborated with her mother in songs like “Nothing Without You,” “High Heels,” and “Christmas Gift.”
Meanwhile, Debbi Morgan portrays Evelyn, Fancy’s mother, and Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman plays the role of Germain in the movie. Other cast members who play supporting yet important roles in ‘Christmas Everyday’ include Lamman Rucker as Richard, Kelvin Hair as Anthony, Kajuana S. Marie as Deena, Bernadette Speakes as Lyla, Melissa Kurland as Ashley Spencer, Journey Carter as Tia, Patrick Gathron as Malik, and Michael Armstrong as Walt. In addition, Hasani Vibez Comer and Caleb T. Thomas feature as two teenage boys.
Read More: The Christmas Spark: Filming Locations and Cast Details
