Augusta, GA – As the Masters Tournament draws near, Augusta’s local shops are gearing up for the influx of visitors who flock to the city for one of golf’s most prestigious events. With just a week left until the tournament begins, businesses such as The Swank Company, Posh Tots, and Escape Outdoors are seeing a surge in customers preparing for the big event.

One of the most popular items in demand is the clear bag—a necessity for anyone planning to attend the tournament. In addition, tennis shoes, Masters-themed decorations, and golfing accessories are flying off the shelves as both locals and tourists look to get “course-ready.”

Ruthie Shelnutt, a sales representative at The Swank Company, explained that two weeks before the Masters, shoppers begin to turn their attention to home décor, with many looking to decorate their houses for the event or prepare for rentals. “We have a whole bunch of small businesses here, businesses that carry items like their art prints and so much of that,” she said. The variety of local art and unique home goods adds a personal touch to the Masters experience, providing customers with memorable souvenirs.

While visitors flood the city for the tournament, local shops are also seeing a different kind of demand—products catering to vacationers and those looking to stand out. Sade Anthony, manager at Palm Village Augusta, pointed out that customers want items that are fun, bright, and comfortable. “Everybody wants to be course-ready, and whether you’re going to the course or going on vacation, you definitely want something bright. Something fun. Something that’s going to stand out and make you feel good,” Anthony said.

The Masters brings in people from all over the world, and for many, it’s an annual tradition. Local businesses, especially those near Augusta National, are prepared for the hustle and bustle of the event. Swank, which has several locations, including one at Surrey Center just minutes from the course, takes full advantage of its proximity. “We send a lot more golf stuff over there and keep a lot here as well. But over there is mainly all the greens and yellows. When you walk in, you’re going to see a whole bunch of golf stuff and all the colors that represent The Masters,” Shelnutt explained.

Surrounding areas like Surry Center, just a stone’s throw from Augusta National, become hubs of activity during the tournament. Anthony notes the excitement that Masters Week brings to the area. “Definitely brings life to our little center here. I feel like we’re off the beaten path but also like in the best possible location to be in. Every weekend at Surry Center is fun, and you have something to do and places to shop, but during Master’s Week, you really see an outpour of people just eating, shopping, drinking, having a good time,” she said.

For both store owners and customers, Masters Week is more than just a shopping experience; it’s an opportunity to engage with the thousands of visitors who descend upon Augusta each year. Local businesses embrace the challenge and the excitement, knowing that the tournament brings much-needed energy to the city, fostering a vibrant atmosphere that extends far beyond the golf course.

As Masters Week kicks off, these local shops continue to be an integral part of the community, offering a blend of convenience, style, and Augusta pride. Whether it’s picking up the perfect golf shirt or finding the right decorations for a rental home, these stores provide everything shoppers need to make their Masters experience unforgettable.