Whoever came up with the notion that this is the season to be jolly clearly didn’t have an entire family of loved ones expecting the perfect gift! Fear not, yuletide help is at hand from the team at Erin Mills Town Centre.

Words by Kristy Elik; Photography by Lisa Murzin

At Erin Mills Town Centre, the halls are decked with good cheer, of course, and lined with over 180 amazing stores and services, all eager to lead you on your quest for the best “wow” presents.

Whether it’s a snazzy new gadget for your husband or that trendy trench coat she’s been eyeing, you’ll find everything you’re looking for at Erin Mills.

Don’t forget, too, to pamper yourself a little during the holidays to relieve stress. Relax in one of the Centre’s great restaurants or grab a healthy bite in the Food Court, and remember to take advantage of charity gift wrapping services.

You’ll have your list crossed off before you can sing “Fa la la la la, la la la la”!

Get the Look (pictured above)

Mom
Gap:
Puffer Vest $79.95, Cowl Sweater $59.95, Boyfriend Blouse $59.95, Jean Cords $69.95
Call it Spring: Lace-Up Bootie $69.99

Dad
Jack & Jones:
Cardigan $60.00, Plaid Shirt $65.00, Scarf $35.00, Classic Jeans $105.00, Boots $75.00

Girl
Gymboree:
Toggle Sweater $40.95, Stripe Top $21.95, Jeans $35.95, Boots $51.95, Hat $20.95

Boy
H&M:
Cardigan $29.95, Stripe Shirt $29.95, Jeans $24.95, Scarf $12.95, Hiking Boots $34.95

Dad’s Tidings of Joy!
Think he’s the most difficult person on your list to buy for? Nonsense. All men really want for Christmas are toys for grown-up boys. Indulge him with the latest gadget or cool camera. Or you could wow him with a bracelet he’ll never take off. Of course, you’ll never go wrong with a trendy new jacket that will keep him warm and look great!

Because She’s Worth It!
Yes, she’s your wife or your mom, or your girlfriend or your daughter… but she’s a woman first, and she deserves to be indulged.

A dazzling watch is a luxury she’d never buy for herself, and that trendy coat she’s been admiring will keep her warm when you’re not around. Let her pamper herself with a range of relaxing beauty products. When in doubt, go for bling! It’s the fail-proof gift that elicits oohs and ahhs every Christmas morning.

Boys Toys and Stocking Thrillers!
Shopping for the little man on your list is a piece of Christmas cake at Erin Mills Town Centre.

His eyes will be like saucers when he opens his state-of-the-art gaming system, accompanied by a couple of the hottest superhero games to play. The sports fanatic will adore the latest hockey skates. Cool kicks are always welcome, and for a real “wow,” a remote-control helicopter is sure to be a big hit with boys (big and little!).

Jingle (and Sparkle) All the Way!
Is she sugar and spice and everything nice? Or a little more snips and snails and puppy dog tails?

Whether she’s girly-girl diva or tomboy tough, there are plenty of great ideas for the little female on your list. A portable game console in pretty pink or trendy purple will make her Christmas morning and the fashionista will love a funky pair of moccasins. And of course, she’s never too young to start loving jewellery!

Santa Paws Is Coming to Town!
At this special time of the year, how could you forget one of the most important members of the family? Your shaggy companion will adore a funky new food dish, and a squeaky toy or two will surely perk up his ears. And the best way to show you care (or so he believes) is to indulge him with a bag of yummy gourmet doggie biscuits.

Feline friends love a good scratching post, or a whole kitty condo they can lounge in all day. Feathery wands and fuzzy mice also make great gifts for your cat kin.

We’ve Got Christmas All Wrapped Up!
So you’ve finished your shopping! Time to lug all your gifts home and spend hours wrapping them… or not. Instead, take advantage of Erin Mills Town Centre’s gift-wrapping service (with donations benefiting the Credit Valley Hospital Foundation), located on the lower level Centre Court beside the Big Tree from December 1 until Christmas Eve.

The Perfect Gift
Stumped for an idea for someone on your gift list? A gift card from Erin Mills Town Centre opens a world of possibilities. Over 180 fabulous stores and national brands offer big selection and wonderful ways to say “happy holidays” to everyone on your list. Purchase a gift card at the Guest Services desk, located on the lower level in Centre Court. Cards are available in any denomination between $5 and $500, are accepted at all participating stores, services and restaurants at Erin Mills Town Centre, and can be purchased using cash, Visa, MasterCard or Interac.

Your One-Stop Location
Great shopping doesn’t end at the Centre! In addition to its 180 stores and services, which include anchors Sears, Zellers and The Bay, exterior stores surrounding Erin Mills Town Centre offer such gifting meccas as Indigo, HomeSense, BouClair and the LCBO. Enjoy apr?s-shopping food and drink at Kelsey’s or Montana’s.

Santa Land Now Open!
From his jolly debut November 17 until Christmas Eve, come and have your photo taken with Santa! Santa Land will be open:

November
Mondays–Fridays:
11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Saturdays: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Sundays: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

December
Mondays–Saturdays:
11:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Sundays: 11:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Midnight Madness: 9:30 a.m.–midnight
Christmas Eve: 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

You can even bring your four-legged friends to be part of your holiday photo! Visit EMTC’s exclusive Paws and Claus Nights, taking place November 18 and 25 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Pre-register by calling 905-569-1981.

Midnight Madness
Shop ’til you drop on Friday, December 14, when Erin Mills Town Centre will remain open until midnight! Enjoy exciting hourly specials, fabulous deals from retailers, great prizes and surprises plus plenty of entertainment for the kids, including face painting, crafts and more.