lake forest shores

Holiday Shopping Season

December 3, 2017

Christmas is fast approaching and before you know it, you'll be scrambling to find the perfect gift by driving all over town due to waiting till the last minute. In an attempt to avoid the stress of last minute shopping, take the time to go visit a mall within the next couple weeks. Even better, take a trip to the Irvine Spectrum (5 minutes away) and check out some of the many stores for that special gift this holiday season.


The Irvine Spectrum features a plathora of retail stores, restaurants and fun family activities during the holidays; Ice Rink, Dave & Buster's, Improv, Edwards Irvine, Giant Wheel, Carousel, Kiddie Train, The RiDE 7D and more to make your holiday shopping fun!

Get more information about the latest IRVINE SPECTRUM ATTRACTIONS.

For those looking for more shopping options, check out the The Shops at Mission Viejo and come get your holiday photos with Santa at the center court. If going from store to store trying to find that special gift makes you hungry, then take a break and enjoy some delicious foods at the Cheesecake Factory, Johnny Rockets, Legal Sea Foods, Uno Pizzeria & Grill, Au Bon Pain & Besito Mexican Restaurant, plus many more to satisfy your hunger.


Once you're done eating and ready to go back to shopping, check out Banana Republic, Baby GAP, Billabong, Disney Store, Forever 21, J. Crew, H&M, Old Navy, Nordstrom, Tommy Bahama, Victoria's Secret, Windsor, Express, Vans, Macy's and a ton more stores to help you with gift options.

Of course, if you don't have time, I have a wonderful Christmas gift idea that works for me every single year. Yes, gift cards can make the perfect gift. Save money, save time by walking to your local Albertson's next door to choose from a wide variety of gift cards.


You may have to be a little creative with the presentation. Here is a sample of what I like to do: Fill up a clear/colored cellophane bag or mason jar (can be purchased at Michael's) with candies, gum, lottery tickets, etc. Another option is to come up with a theme, such as a movie night by adding hot cocoa, cookies, chocolates, movie tickets / DVD, popcorn, candle, mugs and so forth. Once you're done (don't forget to add the gift card to your "pièces de résistance"), decorate the cellophane bag with colored ribbons and give it a final touch by wrapping it in a holiday gift bag. VOILA!

Whatever you do during the holiday season when shopping, make it fun! It can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. Plan ahead, make your list and check it twice. If none of the above fits into your schedule, shop online. ^.^