A national timber shortage threatens to scupper Stephanie's plans to decorate the Marquis salon at Château de Lalande with expensive wallpaper in time for a Christmas party. In the Dordogne, Abbie, Clive and Karen erect a heavy spiral staircase and install complicated lighting on the terrace roof and at Château Mareuil in the Nouvelle Acquitane, Belinda and Lee try to bring an air of mystery to a unique Christmas party for their neighbours.

In the Cognac region, Sarah creates large decorations the big chateau needs to make a festive statement, while George struggles with the weight of the tree. Near Bordeaux, Edward hopes his renovation of the chateau bell will convince his son that Santa will really visit this year.