Md. Shoppers Back After Deals The Day After Christmas

COLUMBIA, Md. (WJZ) -- Less than 24 hours since Christmas, and many Maryland malls and shopping centers are packed with people on the hunt for good deals.

Amy Yensi with details on the shopping frenzy.

Some of the biggest sales of the year happen the day after Christmas. Many people aren't just looking for a bargain, they're shopping for a Christmas do-over.

Just a day after the presents were unrapped, some are going back to the store. Shoppers flock to Maryland malls and stores to return gifts in exchange for what they really want.

"They're just not my size," said Jailin Opher, shopper.

"Today is a big day for returns, and then mostly these shoppers that will bring in their returns will also be picking up new gifts," said Wesley Ribisz, Mall in Columbia, associate general manager.

The Mall in Columbia extended valet hours to accomodate the rush of customers. Managers there say a lot of the new purchases are from customers cashing in their gift cards.

Ashley Grant got to the mall early to beat the crowds.

"I have a gift card that a few people from my job gave me," she said.

One mall manager tells WJZ he believes the warmer than usual weather has been a blessing for this holiday shopping season.

"Going into the season we felt like the warm weather may impact it negatively, but it's been opposite,"

Big-name stores and boutiques slash prices to attract shoppers after the holiday--and it pays off.

"We had people lined up outside of our store waiting to come in. We only have a sale one time of year, and that is today," said Carson Richel, LUSH Cosmetics.

"This is an easy day. Less people, sales, actually. You save some money," said Howard Grant.

Customers say snagging a bargain is like Christmas morning all over again.

"Getting the sales, that's the most important thing," said Grant.

Retail experts tell WJZ this has been a great year for Maryland malls, and they anticipate to see gains through the end of the year.

Shoppers nationwide are expected to spend more than $630 billion for the holidays.