People buying more expensive trees this year | News

TAMPA, Florida - There's nothing Ed Gallio enjoys more than the holidays.

The long-time Tampa resident has been running his Christmas tree lot on Manhattan Avenue in South Tampa for 20 years. "I've seen kids grow up and have their own kids.  I love this business," Ed told 10 News.

Ed says this year more than ever people are forking over big bucks for nicer trees. With a bad economy, he says people want to feel good during the holidays.

They want to spend money on a tree, he says.

Ed told us, "Things are rough, but this is the one time of year, and they're saying, 'You know, maybe the water bill can be a little late, we're going to buy a real tree.'"

His tree lot just a few blocks north of Gandy is busier than ever, open each day from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m.  On weekends, he stays open until 10 p.m.

Each night, Santa makes an appearance for the kids. "We give them the whole experience, the music, the family, everything," Ed says.

He adds, "Again, being small, it's hard to keep up with big guys but, you know, we're going our best, trying to keep our prices down."