Facing the Christmas Shopping Crunch

No more procrastinating. There are only a few days left to get that Christmas shopping done. But it should be easier to finish up with special all night hours at several big store chains including Macy’s and Toys R Us.

Both stores are open round the clock until Christmas Eve. 

Area malls will have extended hours this weekend with only a few shopping days left. Woodfield Mall is open until 11 p.m. today. Mallseeker.com lists all malls in Illinois and their websites, which includes the hours.

Stores like Kohl’s have extended hours, later than malls. Walmart and Meijer stores are open 24 hours.

If the task seems too much, Macy’s personal shoppers are ready to help.

Macy’s By Appointment is a free personal shopping service at many of its locations including Hawthorne Mall in Vernon Hills, Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, Old Orchard in Skokie and Orland Square in Orland Park.

Personal shoppers gave the Washington Post a few tips to get those Christmas shopping lists pared down:

• Make a list

         Knowing where you are going and what you need to buy will help save time              and money.

• Give tasty gifts

         Food or wine is a good option because food gifts are always appreciated.

• Embrace gift cards

         You can buy general gift cards or cards for specific restaurants or stores. The            cards are available almost anywhere, including your corner Walgreens.