Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos have made waves with a notable shift in their Christmas card tradition for 2025, causing a stir among their three children—Michael, 28, Lola, 24, and Joaquin, 22. The couple has long delighted in chaotic yet heartfelt holiday traditions, from matching pajamas to elaborate cooking sessions. However, this year’s departure from the norm has left their kids feeling a bit “slighted.”
In a candid discussion, Ripa and Consuelos revealed that their children were upset over not being featured on the family Christmas card. The reason behind this change was the lengthy approval process their kids typically take, which has sparked some frustration. “They complained that they’re not in the Christmas card—they feel very…,” Ripa said, only for Consuelos to interject, “Slighted!”
Ripa elaborated on the issue, stating she grew weary of waiting for the kids to approve a photo, leading to a spontaneous decision to feature a fun picture taken on set with the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders instead. “Mark just has a look on his face that is like, he’s so excited and happy. He’s the happiest I’ve ever seen him in a Christmas card,” Ripa remarked.
In the spirit of adapting their traditions, Consuelos recounted a previous year when the kids were uncooperative with the holiday card, so he used a picture of his TV family from “Riverdale,” much to their amusement.
Aside from their card dilemma, Ripa shared her new holiday approach for 2025, which involves minimizing effort as much as possible. After enjoying an easy Thanksgiving in London with Lola, Ripa expressed her intention to “cater as much as possible” for Christmas, opting for a simpler holiday experience. Consuelos chimed in, suggesting that a festive time in London could also be on the horizon.
Moreover, the couple decided to simplify the gifting process this year by granting each other the “gift of freedom”—abstaining from buying presents for one another. Ripa humorously noted that this arrangement effectively reduces the couple’s gift exchanges, making light of their new holiday philosophy.
While their Christmas card certainly sparked some family drama, Ripa and Consuelos’ willingness to adapt their holiday practices reflects a joyful and light-hearted approach to family traditions that allows for growth and change as their kids transition into adulthood. This evolution of their holiday celebrations underscores the essence of family, love, and the importance of flexibility amid cherished customs.