This weekend, forget about the mall.

Head over to the Lowry Town Center and knock most of your shopping out -- while you're supporting local businesses.

1. For anyone who cooks, head to The Savory Spice Shop and pick up their custom spice blend gift boxes! We love the Meditterranean Mix, or the Fire Eaters for chile lover's box, or the Colorado 14ers Collection... Plus it smells amazing in there. And they serve hot cider!
2. For the kids, just go to TimBuk Toys. They have Legos. Playmobil. Bruder. Hot Wheels & Matchbox. Art supplies, puzzles, games, stocking stuffers. Plus loyalty cards that give you discounts when you spend $50. AND they gift wrap!
3. For teacher gifts, head to The Watermark for cute candles, stationary, soaps. Vera Bradley bags, great scarves, hats, and more.

I think I got most of my shopping done in one afternoon - no lines, no frustration, no problem parking.