We all have that one person on our list who’s impossible to shop for. If you’re stuck on yours, Uncharted is where I’d send you. I stopped by the Arlington Heights store and found something for just about everyone: kids, parents, neighbors and teachers. The best part? They’ll engrave your gift right there while you wait, so you can walk out with something personalized the same day.
This article is sponsored by Uncharted, and all opinions are our own.
What Is the Merry Market?
For the holidays, Uncharted has transformed its stores into the Merry Market, inspired by the holiday markets in Europe. Instead of one big store, it’s set up as a few little themed shops inside, which makes it really fun to wander through.
The Shops Within the Shop
Dream Shop
The Dream Shop is the cozy corner. The holiday pajamas and sweaters are so cute, and they’d be perfect for Christmas morning photos. It’s also a great spot for stocking stuffers, especially the squishies.
Festive Home
Uncharted is known for its holiday decor, and Festive Home is full of it. If you have a friend who’s always hosting, this is where you’ll find her hostess gift, from candles to kitchen pieces.
Strawflower Boutique
The Strawflower Boutique has handcrafted accessories for the person on your list with their own one-of-a-kind style.
Personalization Is the Standout
This was my favorite part of the visit. You pick the font, the wording, the size and even symbols, so it really feels like your own design. And it was so affordable!
Mine was ready in about 10 minutes, but I was the only one waiting. It’s going to get busier as the holidays get closer, so I wouldn’t leave personalized gifts until the last minute.
Uncharted also hosts in-store personalization events and other activities during the season, so check the schedule before you go.
Build Your Own Gift Basket
This is such an easy idea for teacher, neighbor or coworker gifts. Grab a few things from around the store, like a candle, a kitchen item or a piece of jewelry, and put together a basket made just for them.
Gifts for Kids, Too
There are Christmas books, toys and stuffed animals for the little ones. My daughter found a stuffed dog that looks exactly like our dogs at home, and she was thrilled.
Friendly, Helpful Staff
Everyone I talked to was super helpful and really knew the store. If you’re stuck on what to get someone, just ask. They had great ideas.
Free Photos with Santa at Uncharted
Santa is visiting Uncharted stores around the suburbs this season for free photos. All visits are on Saturdays, and you’ll want to bring your own camera or phone.
| Store | Nov. 21 | Dec. 5 | Dec. 12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlington Heights | 10am to 12pm | 2pm to 4pm | 2pm to 4pm |
| Geneva | 10am to 12pm | 10am to 12pm | 2pm to 4pm |
| Oak Brook | 10am to 12pm | 10am to 12pm | 10am to 12pm |
| Orland Park | 10am to 12pm | 10am to 12pm | 10am to 12pm |
| Wheaton | 10am to 12pm | 10am to 12pm | 2pm to 4pm |
Location Info
- Arlington Heights: 330 E. Rand Road, Arlington Heights, (224) 526-8706
- Geneva: 1548 S. Randall Road, Geneva, (331) 283-0715
- Oak Brook: The Shops at Oak Brook, 2155 W. 22nd Street, Suite 015, Oak Brook, (630) 568-6640
- Orland Park: 14906 S. La Grange Road, Orland Park, (708) 696-2404
- Wheaton: 116 Danada Square, Wheaton, (331) 296-1835
