With her final Christmas present in hand, Martine leaves Le Bonhomme en bois, a toy store located on rue Saint-Jean in Niort, on this last Sunday before Christmas. “It wasn’t planned. It's a little rag doll for a young child.”specifies the one who is preparing to receive her family for the holidays.
“The vacationers have just arrived and they are making purchases that they did not have time to make”
The store has seen many customers pass through in recent days: “On Saturday, we had a lot of people. Until December 31, customers are still looking for gifts. Vacationers have also just arrived and are making purchases they didn't have time to make. There is still an attraction for traditional toys, products standardized in terms of safety”confides Martine, store manager.
In the radius of best-sellerspuppet theaters, hot air balloons, garages and merchants sell easily. “This year, little mice are also in fashion”adds the manager.
“Little last minute things”
At Flying Tiger Copenhagen, rue Victor-Hugo, it’s time to sort out the final details. The brand offers stuffed animals as well as games and kitchen utensils. Mélissa strolls through the aisles, a piggy bank in her arms. “I finished all my presents. I really come for little things. »
A few meters away, Florence is still looking for small gifts for aunts or nephews, without ideas in mind. “I also look for gifts for less than five euros. »
For Fabienne, it’s about decoration. “I decorate my kitchen every year with balls in the shape of croissants or cakes. I buy the last few items to complete. It's really little last minute things. »
Success for cakes
At Mogettes et Cie, a boutique specializing in the gastronomy and crafts of Deux-Sèvres, there is a rush. “We were a hit on Saturday », says Jérôme, manager of the store with Audrey, his partner.
“Customers are getting ready to join their families and are taking the opportunity to take with them products made in our department. We sell a lot of cakes: roasted and caramelized almonds coated in dark, white and milk chocolate. »
Exactly what Bryan, a customer, chooses for his basket. He goes to Paris. “I also took angelica products, chocolate mogettes and nougatine. I will give friends a taste. »