A Marietta family 20 years ago created a brand-new tradition with Elf on the Shelf, a Christmas miracle in a day and age where nostalgia rules the airwaves and gift shops.

Companies are blaming the brick-and-mortar shrinkage on declining foot traffic, shifting shopper habits and inflation.

Once, department store dining was more than practical, it was experiential as well. These restaurants used to be an even ...