Decked for hauls: How local businesses charm holiday shoppers
Ornaments hang for sale at Novel bookstore in East Memphis, one of the many local shops preparing for holiday shoppers. (Mark Weber/The Daily Memphian)
As far as holiday traditions go, post-Thanksgiving shopping is almost on par with a turkey dinner for many Americans.
The National Retail Federation said it anticipates a record number of shoppers this holiday weekend: 183.4 million, up from 182 million in 2023.
“Even though holiday shopping continues to pull forward, some of the busiest shopping days of the year are during the five-day Thanksgiving weekend,” said Katherine Cullen, the federation’s vice president of industry and consumer insights.
Local, independent retailers said they’re optimistic about drawing in-person shoppers this holiday season by offering unique items and personalized gift recommendations in a warm, welcoming environment.
Laura Salvati of One Cozy Home, a home decor shop in Collierville’s Carriage Crossing, said she’s curating an attentive in-store experience for her customers.
One Cozy Home sells throw pillows and blankets, wall decor, decorative objects, kitchen and bath accessories and some found and vintage pieces. (Patrick Lantrip/The Daily Memphian)
“When people come in, they can ask me questions and I can help them pick the perfect gift,” she said. “It’s a personalized, cozy shopping experience you can’t get when you add something to your cart on Amazon.”
This is the second holiday shopping season for One Cozy Home, which opened about a year ago.
“A lot of new people are finding me, so I’m hoping foot traffic will increase now that the holiday season is here,” Salvati said.
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Aisling Mäki
Aisling Mäki has been writing about Memphis since she moved to the city more than 20 years ago. She’s worked for print, digital and broadcast news outlets, including Memphis Daily News and Action News 5 (WMC), as well as public relations agencies. Her work has earned awards from The Associated Press, Tennessee Press Association, Society of Professional Journalists and Public Relations Society of America.
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