ATLANTA, GA — There’s a steady flow of shoppers coming to the Cumberland Mall on Christmas Eve to make one last trip for potential gifts to put under the tree and goodies to put on the table.
“I went to Costco to get a few last-minute food items we needed, and I went to Macy’s looking for a dress for my daughter. Also stopped by lululemon,” said Laura Kandalikis.
The Cobb County mother said she’s bought more than 40 gifts so far, and was calling it quits even though she didn’t quite fill out the list with the perfect dress. Even though Kandalakis says she’s happy Christmas is here, “I’m ready for it to be over,” she adds, laughing.
Lawanda Onley was leaving Cumberland laden down with many packages and was happy to have all her shopping done.
“I love this time of year,” Onley said. “It makes you happy, you want to share more, you want to smile more, you want to spread good cheer. It’s a great time of year.”
It’s also the favorite time of year for a Cobb County woman whose college kids are home for the holidays, and who will be enjoying good food and reunions with relatives.
“All year could be Christmas, in my opinion,” says Anika Bozeman.
Bozeman was taking advantage of what she calls “a great sale at Macy’s.” A reporter spotted her filling up her car trunk with bags from Macy’s, then preparing to head back in for a second round of impromptu shopping.
She made sure to treat herself while buying for others, too.
“I stopped and got myself a few dresses,” Bozeman says.
The National Retail Federation forecast estimates Americans will spend north of $980 billion dollars this holiday season.