Originally an award-winning children’s book told in rhyming verse, To Be A Christmas Tree is a moving story about finding purpose amidst life’s hardships and losses. Adapting it into a short film allows us to visually expand the narrative and create a richer, more immersive experience.

The film opens on Christmas Eve with a warm, live-action scene: a mother reading to her child by the tree. As her voice begins the lyrical narration, we dive into the animated world of the book. Guided by her words, the film carries us further into adventure, bringing the characters to life, revealing the tender, enchanting details of a small community and the lives within it—including moments only hinted at in the book—allowing audiences to feel the story in vivid, intimate depth.

For the full story synopsis, watch our pitch video above!

In 2018, I was carrying my Christmas tree to the curb when I realized: this tree had given its life just to decorate my living room for a few short weeks, and I hadn’t really given it much thought. Like so many of us, I had rushed through the holiday, checking the “Christmas Tree” box without honoring the sacrifice that had been given. I promised myself that the following year, I would truly spend time with our tree.

In 2019, I kept that promise. I slowed down, sat with the tree, felt its life force, honored its being. And in the quiet, I thought: "Its life is ending—yet this moment feels so good. How could this be good?" 

At that moment, it was as if the tree answered me. An image appeared in my mind — which is now the crowning moment of the story. To Be A Christmas Tree is that answer and I've been compelled to share it with the world, ever since. It’s, in many ways, a message from nature herself. 

Roughly 1 in 5 children will lose someone close to them by age 18—and loss comes in many forms.

To Be A Christmas Tree speaks to children who have experienced any kind of loss, and the adults who care for them. Therapists, counselors, grief groups, and parents have already begun using the book as a gentle tool to explore feelings, ask questions, and open conversations about difficult topics. Most adults cry when they read it and I've even had strangers break down in tears from simply hearing the synopsis!

This shows me that we are in deep need of a safe way to feel our feelings and to connect with each other in meaningful ways.

Bringing this award-winning story to the big screen allows us to reach an even larger audience, sharing its lyrical beauty, emotional depth, and message of hope to children and adults around the world. As people across the globe grieve a multitude of losses, and many question their purpose, destinies and faith, this poetic story answers their hearts' call.

Beyond grief, the story resonates with nature lovers and anyone seeking a deeper connection to the natural world. Gentle, touching, and inspiring, To Be A Christmas Tree offers hope and comfort in a real, accessible way.

Bookended by live action shot on physical film, the majority of the film will be animated, in a calm and regulated pace. The animated visuals will be a blend of classic, realistic art with dreamy movement and poignant emotion.

handcrafted, classic art

dreamy movement, artistic transitions

storybook elements, poignant emotions

Shooting the live action scenes on actual film will lend subtle grain, warmth, and texture that the eye unconsciously associates with memories and past eras.

comforting, nostalgic feel

Taking on a timeless feel, the film will continue to be relevant for years to come — feeling new to younger generations and nostalgic to older ones. This is classic storytelling for modern hearts.

This campaign will allow us to begin production!

Your support will directly fund:

-- Professional voice-over recording sessions for our animated characters

-- 3d animated character design

If we surpass our funding goal, stretch funds will go toward:

-- 3d animated prop and environment design

-- Overall film animation - bringing our characters and world to life!

-- Our live action film shoot

Once the entire film is complete, we’ll submit it to animation and children’s film festivals around the world to share it with a broad audience and build visibility. After its festival run, we’ll have a red carpet premiere screening (open to you!) and release it so everyone can experience the magic — and share it with the people they love.

This campaign is about more than making a film — it’s about creating a shared space for healing and hope.

Here’s how you can help:

-- Pledge any amount — every dollar brings this story closer to life.

-- Follow the campaign to stay updated on progress.

-- Share this campaign with someone who loves meaningful storytelling.

Share the Story

Here are a few lines you can copy and paste to spread the word:

I just supported To Be A Christmas Tree, a beautiful animated short where grief meets hope and even the smallest light can pierce the dark. Join me in bringing it to life! seedandspark.com/fund/to-be-a-christmas-tree

We are so grateful for your partnership!

Stories have a quiet power to slip past our defenses and settle deep inside, planting seeds of hope and courage. They shape the way we see ourselves and the world, often without us even realizing it.

This animated short is more than an adaptation of my book — it’s an offering. It’s a reminder that every life has purpose, even when we feel unseen or small. 

Through hand-crafted visuals and a timeless tone, we’re creating a space where audiences can feel, remember, and begin to mend. My hope is that this film will meet people where words can’t touch, opening gentle conversations in families, classrooms, and therapy circles alike. 

Whether you’re raising a child or tending to your inner one, this story has the power to ignite the heart and inspire the mind.

Thank you for following along! Your support means the world to us. We'd love for you to stay connected and join us on Instagram as the story unfolds @christmastreefilm