Lauren Smith is preparing for a festive season unlike any other.
Pregnant with her first child, the 33-year-old and her partner Marcus Ellis are celebrating this Christmas in their new home north of Carlisle. Smith and Ellis announced their baby news on Instagram last month.
Their last competitive match was at the European Championships in April and having moved from the National Badminton Centre in Milton Keynes two months ago, the couple are embracing the transitional period, both as athletes and soon-to-be parents.
“This year feels very different for a lot of reasons,” Smith reflected. “It’s actually our first non-COVID-19 Christmas together, and we are hosting family. We are both very aware this is the last Christmas that’s just about us, so we are trying to enjoy the time together before our lives change next year.”
For Rio 2016 Olympic bronze medallist Ellis, the shift is equally poignant, marking a time of anticipation and preparation.
“We’ve thought a lot about what Christmas will look like next year with a little one. Up until now, it’s been about what we wanted to do, but having a child changes priorities,” he said.

Ellis says Christmas will look very different next year. IMAGE: Lauren Smith
In their new home, the couple are settling in, though Ellis admitted they are “still living out of boxes a little bit” and working on the finishing touches. On their Christmas wishlist this year, Smith has been practical, focusing on items for their baby, such as a cot, changing table, and nursery essentials. Yet, she’s also included memory books to document the pregnancy and the baby’s early years, a touching way to cherish the journey ahead.
Balancing pregnancy with the holiday season has brought its challenges, but Smith has embraced the adjustments with her trademark discipline as an athlete.
“I’ve always tried to stay active over Christmas because of tournaments in January, so pregnancy hasn’t changed that much,” she explained. “I’m a little less active, of course, but staying on the move makes me feel good.”
She’s also mindful of pacing herself amidst the festive excitement. “There’s a lot going on, and I’ve made sure to say no to some things. Hosting seven people on Christmas Day is a big task, so I’m getting plenty of rest and taking naps when I can.”

Ellis and Smith are looking forward to welcoming their first baby in April.
Food has been a particular area of focus for Smith this year, especially with pregnancy cravings.
“One of my cravings has been cheese, which is tricky because you are not supposed to have soft or mouldy cheeses. But there are other nice ones I can have in moderation,” she laughed. Another indulgence? “Iron Bru. It’s full of ‘not good stuff’ so I’ve rationed it, but I will be treating bump and me to a glass on Christmas Day.”
Looking ahead, the couple are already planning new traditions to accommodate their growing family along with dog Luna. “We are hoping to start a Boxing Day walk tradition, hopefully with good weather, the dogs and the family,” said Smith.
Next year, they anticipate a Christmas filled with the magic of a child’s perspective. “It will be the beginning of new traditions and bringing back the Santa magic,” Smith said with excitement.
This year’s celebrations, however, are focused on family.
“The most meaningful part is having family stay with us and making their time here special,” she said. “This is the first Christmas we’ve had together with family at home, and hopefully the first of many. It feels incredibly meaningful to be close to family, with Marcus, and preparing for what’s to come.”
View this post on Instagram