A jolly, magical, white-haired man — usually named Chris, Nick, or Noel — is revealed to be the real Santa Claus.

Looking for a red-haired, soft-spoken, gentle-natured leading lady? Alicia Witt will warm your heart while she graces your screen.

So much more than DJ Tanner. Year after year, Candace personifies the warmth and joy of the Christmas season.

A woman who finds purpose in the next promotion or running the company. Love, until now, has never been a priority.

Who wishes you a Merry Christmas? Hint: they have over-sized songbooks…and are often in Dickensian costume.

Hungry children. Homeless pets. A charity event. Or just “the needy.” Whatever the cause, the reason for the season is illuminated as our leads act in the service of others.

Holly, Mary, Noel, Carol, Eve. The list goes on and on. And yes…Nick counts too.

A small town with a punny, Christmas-themed (or at least winter-themed) name.

Whatever it’s called (festival, parade, tree-lighting, or gala) the whole town gathers together - usually around a tree and almost always on Christmas Eve.

Nothing threatens the character of a small town more than a slick developer who wants to build luxury condos.

There wouldn't be a movie if it wasn't for this (usually Christmas-themed) contest. The main characters might not fall in love if not for this contest, either.

An offspring of a main character, this child will help his/her parent fall in love or discover the true meaning of Christmas.

It's why they love Christmas...or hate Christmas.

The climax of the movie: a swell of music before you see an engagement ring or a PG-rated kiss.

This company only cares about money. It will cancel a Christmas-themed tradition or try to buy out a small business, no matter the consequences.

Also refers to a serious boyfriend or girlfriend. He/she thinks they know best, and they will fight to keep their relationship, even when it's obvious their partner prefers another.

The main characters didn't like each other at first…but through forced interactions, they find common interests, including each other.

She plays strong women who know what they want. Who needs Hilary when you have Haylie?

Typically two-thirds into the movie, the love interests bond while skating and/or a clumsy, icy fall.

She may not have grandchildren, but she has wisdom to share about love and overcoming personal pride.

Small in stature but big in personality, Lacey wins over princes and towns. She makes "Fetch" happen.

Main characters assumed they knew the role of the other…until they were proven wrong.

When our leads need a push towards love, there’s a good chance it’s hanging over their heads.

If the movie can’t afford (or won’t pay for) Michael Buble or Mariah Carey, there’s a good chance it leans on free public domain music like the “Nutcracker Suite.”

Flour flies and giggles ensue while baking cookies or other Christmas-y dishes.

Quick cuts of cabs, skyscrapers, retail window dressings, and women walking in colorful coats are overlayed with opening credits.

Why isn’t the lead spending Christmas with family like everyone else? Probably because her parents are spending the holiday on a tropical island.

The female lead has a creative job at a small firm that puts her in the path of her romantic foil.

Is Christmas really Christmas without the presence of reindeer? Double points if they pull a sleigh.

Final scene. The music builds. And heads turn as she appears in an elegant red dress.

They were in love long ago, but times have changed…or have they? A tragedy or hometown struggle will bring them together to rediscover what has always bubbled beneath the surface.

If you have time, he'll talk your ear off. He's kind and has loved deeply. Listening to him will ensure you have a happy ending.

Sleigh or carriage rides act as the tipping point toward love--the gentle snowfall or clumsy dismount solidify the feelings.

He's a carpenter, furniture maker, or everyday handyman. He values family and is handsome to boot.

A romantic lead dramatically plugs in "twinkle lights" to encourage an emotional, honest moment.

If you see a grand piano, someone is bound to play it. And they will play it to woo another.

Far too close to Christmas Day, characters will buy and then immediately trim a Christmas tree. Brushed shoulders and elongated eye gazes occur.

A woman shivers while wearing a strapless dress. High heels slip because of a recent snowfall. Women just don't know how to dress for December weather.

His heart has been broken by a love lost. He's chilly on the outside yet still open to love on the inside.