Holiday Magic: How a family planted a dream that grew into the Rockefeller Christmas Tree

Kacie Doran, Senior Regional Sales Manager, Orlando, has deep roots in upstate New York, where five generations ago, a massive Norway spruce, and family history made their way to light up New York City as this year’s Rockefeller Center Christmas tree.

By the Numbers

Kacie Doran cried as she watched her family’s towering spruce rise against the New York skyline in Rockefeller Center. Not just because it was a surreal moment, or because she’s a self-proclaimed Christmas enthusiast (her dog’s name is Jovie Zuzu, after all. Jovie is a nod to the movie Elf, and ZuZu to It’s a Wonderful Life).

It’s because this tree came from her family’s land in upstate New York, in East Greenbush. And with it came decades of memories, a tribute to her late cousin Daniel, and unifying moments stretching across generations—and the world.

“I feel like my heart grew three times, and is going to burst,” Kacie said, referencing the Grinch with a laugh.” This tree brought our whole family together in a way I didn’t expect, and it means so much that the memories created here can now be shared, giving others the chance to make their own.”

Kacie’s family has lived on the land for five generations, spending summers there with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. “We didn’t realize how rare that was growing up,” she said. “Now, it feels like magic.”

The tree, planted by Kacie’s great-grandparents, grew quietly for generations. Until, that is, Kacie’s cousin-in-law and current resident of the home, Judy Russ, submitted a photo to Rockefeller Center’s arborist on a whim. The selection process was quiet and precise, involving trimming, watering, and even 24/7 security once the tree was chosen. “It was a well-oiled machine,” Kacie said, impressed by the precision and care. “It reminded me of how we run events—every detail matters.”

That connection runs deep for Kacie, who works in PRAs Orlando office. Watching the Rockefeller team orchestrate the cutting, transport, and installation of the tree felt like seeing her professional world reflected on a grand, glittering scale. “I’ve always watched the tree lighting from my couch,” she said. “It’s the kickoff to the season. To be part of it in person…it’s overwhelming in the best way.”

The family honored Kacie’s late cousin Daniel, who always joked with his wife, Judy, that they needed a crane to decorate the tree, and it should be in Rockefeller Center. The family honored Daniel, who passed away before the tree was selected, in heartfelt ways. They wore locally designed sweatshirts reading “Meet Me Under the Tree” to all events associated with the tree, with proceeds donated in Daniel’s name to community organizations. “Dan and I were close growing up,” Kacie said. “This felt like something he would’ve loved.”

Dan and Judy’s son, Liam, just seven years old, became a local celebrity when the tree stopped by his school enroute to New York. Dressed as an elf, the principal welcomed the truck while students chanted Liam’s name. “He has a fun fact for life,” Kacie joked. “I’m a little jealous.”

The lighting ceremony itself was a blur of emotion. Kacie flew in from Florida to attend, joined by a large contingent of family members. “It was historic,” she said. “To see something so personal become part of a tradition that millions of people cherish, it’s indescribable.”

On Christmas Day, as families gather around their own trees, the one in Rockefeller Center will shine a little brighter for those who know its story. It’s more than a symbol of the season. It’s a living memory, a tribute, and a reminder that sometimes, the biggest events—and the magic—begin quietly, behind the scenes or in the soil of a family’s home.

“I feel like my heart grew three times and is going to burst. This tree brought our whole family together in a way I didn’t expect, and it means so much that the memories created here can now be shared, giving others the chance to make their own.”

At PRA, we are continually inspired by the people behind our work. Kacie’s experience reflects the heart, history, and humanity our teams bring to every event and every client partnership.