Explore two holiday films by Kaylin Richardson, blending family fun with Utah's beautiful scenery.
PARK CITY, Utah — Kaylin Richardson, a former Olympic ski racer, has transitioned into the film industry, creating romantic holiday comedies. She is the writer and producer of "Mistletoe Mixup" and its sequel "Marry Christmas," both of which star the Lawrence brothers—Joey, Matthew, and Andrew. The films showcase Utah's stunning landscapes and offer family-friendly entertainment.
Before her filmmaking career, Richardson competed as an elite alpine ski racer. She participated in two Olympic Games, finishing 17th in the women’s combined events in 2006 and 2010. She also represented the United States in the 2007 World Championships, achieving an 11th place finish in the mixed team event.
Richardson notes that her films are designed to provide light-hearted entertainment amid today's fast-paced world. She collaborates closely with her husband, Tim Schaaf, who is also a writer and producer. The couple met in 2009 at the Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid and have worked together on development and production logistics for their films.
The first film, "Mistletoe Mixup," follows Holly, a workaholic who encounters two brothers on the same day, leading to comedic sibling rivalry. Filming took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, utilizing a home in Midway where the crew and actors stayed together.
Richardson also drew on local talent and locations, with many scenes filmed at Solitude Mountain Resort and other notable Utah sites. The Lawrence brothers' mother, Donna, made her acting debut in the films, portraying a grandmother, while Richardson's daughter appeared as a flower girl.
The sequel, "Marry Christmas," centers on a scheduling mix-up where the Wright brothers accidentally plan their weddings on the same day. The film was produced while Richardson cared for a newborn, and she quickly outlined the story using Post-it notes.
Both films have gained popularity, with "Mistletoe Mixup" achieving early success on Amazon Prime and "Marry Christmas" later appearing in Netflix’s U.S. Top 10. Richardson aims for her films to be enjoyable for families, hoping they become cherished holiday traditions.