Still Shopping for the Holidays?

With less than a week to go before Christmas, shopping is in full swing all over New Rochelle. While many towns have malls or online as their only choices, New Rochelle still has many stores that are run by local owners and give New Rochelle an old-fashioned feel, especially during the holiday season.

Greg Choron, owner of the Merry Go-Round on North Avenue, stated, "We know what to stockpile. We are so packed to the rafters with merchandise." Some of the hot items he still has in stock include Bey Blades, the Wii Drawing Tablet, Just Dance 2 for Wii and a Spin Master's sticker making machine. A couple of the most popular games are Scrabble Flash and Rubix Slide, which Choron said is a wonderful travel game.

To compete with the toy store chains, Choron regularly monitors prices and remains competitive. He said the store will also have extended hours through Christmas. Beginning on Monday, Dec. 20, the store will be open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m.

For a perfect last minute gift, Frank Egan, general manager of Enchanted Flower Boutique on Pelham Road, said you cannot go wrong with a Teleflora item. He said they had everything from Christmas ornaments to lanterns to traditional holiday arrangements.

Egan said that orders have been strong throughout December and explained that customers could order through December 23 for delivery or stop in the shop on Christmas Eve for a last minute gift. He said the Present Perfect Flower Bouquet with red and white mini carnations, decorative candy canes, pine cones, and berries could be saved from year to year. The shop is offering a special $5 discount for online orders. "One of the beauties of flowers is they fit any budget," Egan said.

on Main Street has been in business since 1927. According to its Web site, it offers "a broad selection of prices, styles and brands we are able to provide products for everyone." Talner also provides shipping services and complimentary gift wrapping.

Enchanted Basket said that they are available for phone call orders throughout the day and evening. According to their Web site, "When time is of the essence and you're looking for that perfect present, it is just a phone call away. Let us help you design that special gift." Baskets include all sorts of specialty items from gourmet food products to spa items.

Customers can also find local jewelry, clothing and specialty shops throughout New Rochelle. As online shopping days tick away and free shopping offers disappear, one of the best ways to finish the list is taking a stroll through New Rochelle to visit some of the local stores for some gift shopping and old-fashioned customer service.

Some local recommendations:

• Domenic Men's Shop, 486 Main Street, (914) 632-9411
• Enchanted Basket, 167 Paine Avenue, (914) 632-1204 ‎
• Enchanted Flower Boutique, 426 Pelham Road, (914) 576-9288
• Liebman's Clothing and School Uniforms, 510 Main Street, (914) 632-2770
• Merry Go-Round, 188 North Avenue, (914) 632-4119
• Squiggy's Dugout, 237 Main Street, (914) 636-7585
• Talner Fine Jewelry & Giftware, 565 Main Street, (914) 632-3692