Last minute shoppers add to successful season for local retailers

JACKSON, Tenn. — During the days leading up to Christmas, shoppers cram into stores to get those last minute gifts.

Marilyn Jackson’s Gifts owner, Marilyn Jackson, says this Christmas has been the busiest in years.

“We have been extremely busy and we’re so thankful, because the last couple of years have been slow for retailers and Christmas,” Jackson said. “People have come, they would say, ‘We want to shop local. We want to support small businesses,’ and we’re so appreciative of that.”

Jackson says shoppers have been looking for anything and everything.

“Rain jackets have been one of the most popular thing, we’ve sold out twice,” Jackson said. “Ronaldo bracelets are always popular, candles. We’ve engraved a lot of glasses. Anything that can be engraved and personalized, people have really enjoyed this year it seems.”

Most importantly, Jackson says this holiday season will be extra special for those who haven’t been able to celebrate amid the pandemic.

“They get to enjoy each other, which is what it’s all about. It’s not the presents under the tree. It’s who’s gathered around the tree,” said Jackson.

At Carriage House Antique Market, they say its a great place to find Christmas items from the past.

“Especially around Christmas time it’s nice to have something that is going to pull those heartstrings and remind you of, you know, time before and and stuff that maybe you collected as a kid or something for your kids that you collected,” said Amanda Hollinshead, the shop’s social media manager.

Being an antique shop, they say its easy to find the person who already has everything a not so traditional gift.

“Carriage House has something for everybody,” Hollinshead said. “If you’re looking for something for somebody that you haven’t been able to find yet, this is probably the place you’re going to find it.”

In comparison to last year’s holiday shopping, they say they have doubled in sales.

“People feel comfortable to be out and about and are just more excited for the holiday this year, to just actually be together and enjoy it,” said Hollinshead.

If you’re planning on one last day of shopping, Carriage House Antique Market will be open on Christmas Eve from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

And Marilyn Jackson’s Gifts will be open from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

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