After a random sampling of local merchants, it appears the Christmas shopping spirit was alive and well in Bainbridge this year, that many people shopped at home. The stores also attracted a large number of out-of-town shoppers.

Shae Brouilett is one of the new owners of Reeve’s Gifts Jewelry & More. She reported that for their first Christmas they were feeling very blessed. “We had great support from both local and out of town customers.

It exceeded all our expectations.”Some of their best selling items were Brighton jewelry, hobo bags and cow hide furry bags, as well as candles.

Owner Edwin McCullers said Flint River Outfitters did “really good,” adding it was almost a carbon copy of last year with the exception of the sale of gift cards.

“We sold three times as many gift cards as last year.” Other big sellers were all kinds of ladies’ and men’s apparel, jewelry and home décor.

Belk Department Store Manager Threasa Hall said the Bainbridge store met their goals and counted their sales of clothing, shoes and toys as helping them to have a successful season. Bedding was also a good seller.

Bainbridge Pharmacy Gifts had a “great” year, according to associate Kelly Holt.

Some of their biggest sellers were jackets with monograms, candles, jewelry and monogrammed throws. She stated it was her belief that business this year was double what it was last year.

Mandy Dollar spoke for Godwin Jewelers, saying, “We had a really great year.” They sold a lot of diamond rings, pins, bracelets and necklaces, and just a great deal of jewelry.

Although Godwin’s opened a new store in Thomasville in 2017, she did not believe its existence had a negative impact on the Bainbridge sales at all.