Christmas is right around the corner and if you’re not one of those people who waits until the last-minute to buy gifts, this could be a good time to treat yourself.

Nina Sarenac is a fourth-grade teacher. She’s not only finished with school for the year but is also done with her Christmas list. She spent her extra time shopping in Milwaukee’s Third Ward shopping at Lela Boutique.

“I took care of everybody else’s shopping and now it is my time,” said Sarenac. 

Sarenac said it’s a pleasant break and a good time to spend with friends before everyone goes off to spend time with their families.

Carrie Arrouet is the owner of Lela. She said that for the past few years she’s seen new trends in the clothes people are buying during the holidays.

Carrie Arrouet is the owner of Lela in Milwaukee's Third Ward. (Spectrum News 1/Wendy Strong)

“Shopping in general for clothes has changed in the last six or seven years, people are dressing less dressy, and they have less dressy events to go to,” said Arrouet.

She said despite the change in style, sales are strong and her customer base is vast.

“Tourists have come as far away, we had some people from Japan, we had some people from Germany, it’s been pretty widespread and yes, we certainly get lots from the Wisconsin area, I would say we’ve had a large number coming in from the La Crosse area and the Green Bay area this season,” said Arrouet.

(Spectrum News 1/Wendy Strong)

It’s a season Sarenac said she has loved since she was a kid. She said if you haven’t finished your shopping yet; she has tips.

“Grab yourself a nice hot beverage, pack your patience, while we don’t have a white Christmas this year, it is mild and lovely outside and get out and just enjoy, take a deep breath and just experience the fun energy around you and the colored lights,” said Sarenac.

It’s the same fun energy Sarenac said she is looking forward to experiencing with her family on Christmas morning and into the New Year.