Local Stores Ready For Last-Minute Shoppers

Snow flurries are not the only forecast for this week; a flurry of last-minute shoppers will be racing around Johnston, looking for gifts in the precious few hours before Christmas.

Braving the cold, shoppers will be looking for gifts that are unique and affordable, and there are plenty of local shops around town that offer exceptional gifts that are suitable for anyone on your list.

on Greenville Ave. offers a mesmerizing number of items – from candles to aromatic lotions and their renowned gift baskets. They are contracted for the holiday decorating of Twin River Casino this year.

"New customers are arriving, but they do the big shopping first – you know, gizmos. I am the business offering gourmet foods and custom ornaments," said storeowner Laurie Langford.

Laurie has also noted that cash sales are on the rise and credit card charging is at a minimum.

Asked to suggest gifts that cost less than $50, Langford replied: "Everything in our store! Most of our merchandise is from $15.99 to $29.99, just come on in and look."

On Atwood Avenue inside Crossroad Commons sits . D'Lan has a wonderfully eclectic mix of elegant and everyday, from crystal to tableware and jewelry -- both exotic and simple.

"We had a very busy Saturday," said Joan Gannon, sales associate at the store. "I noticed new people coming in here, looking around and picking up different things for people on their list. People are really getting ready for Christmas."

"I don't know about today, though, I think people are still sleeping because it's so cold," Gannon laughed during the interview on Tuesday morning.

"We have wonderful luxury soap gift boxes and some really nice jewelry that you won't find anywhere else," Gannon said when asked about gifts under $50.

On the other side of Johnston, right off Putnam Pike is Past Treasures. Past Treasures is a new consignment store that is absolutely immaculate, with an impressive array of consigned items, many of which are new tag-on designer clothes and accessories at great prices.

"It's a new store and I've been noticing both consigners and purchases are on the rise. I find people are very happy and come back – this is a good thing," said proprietress Mary-Ann Charbatji.

Asked how she decided on the name for her store, Charbatji explained: "Since people drop things off, it's past. When it's a find, it's a treasure."

Past Treaures has a number of items for under $50, though it may take a little hunting, Charbatji said.

"There is a lot of jewelry in the cases and new clothes, with the tags still on. You really have to look through everything. You'll be surprised at what you find," she added.

Just a quick ride around town will offer you a chance to pick up those last few gifts you need and cross those names off your list, making the crunch before Christmas a little more jolly. Hurry - these stores are closed Christmas Day.