Welcome...
First, there are only three colors: yellow, chocolate and black. No good breeder will call a Lab white. That's a red flag.
Second, you are very smart not to purchase a puppy on the internet or put down deposits sight unseen or without amazing references from people you know and trust.
The best scenario is letting a breeder know what you are looking for and telling her about your family and environment and then she will point you in the direction of not only the appropriate puppy, but the right breeding. Doesn't mean you won't have to put down a deposit, but they won't even want your money until they have properly vetted you and perhaps even had you to their home to meet some of their dogs, especially the mom (with a good breeder, dad most likely will not live there or be owned by the same breeder).
Many good breeders have waiting lists, so having a set date, especially during a time when less litters are born, Christmas, can lend itself to picking the wrong puppy for the wrong reasons. So, I would not limit yourself to a Christmas puppies. Puppymills, usually on the internet, will have lots of Christmas puppies because that is a perfect time for impulse buyers to get pups!
Your best bet is to look for Labrador Retriever Clubs in the areas you are willing to travel to for a pup. Lab Clubs have pretty strict restrictions on who they allow in the club and breeders must sign a code of ethics as to their breeding practices, which includes all of the health testing as well as breeding for the right reasons. You are typically pretty safe going through the clubs. Also, the Lab clubs usually have people who field puppy inquiries and can help you determine some good options.
Good luck!