SHOP INDEPENDENT THIS CHRISTMAS
It is that time of year of year again, when sparkling lights illuminate the dark streets, festive tunes start to twinkle out of the radio, and a general feeling of magic fills the air. That being said, Christmas will be a little bit different this year. Over the last few months, we have learnt to treasure the smaller things in life. From spending time with our families to exploring the local area, it is the little things that have kept us going. That is why it is more important than ever to think small when it comes to our Christmas shopping. By supporting independent businesses, you give back to the community and are guaranteed to make someone’s day a little brighter. With that in mind, here are some of our favourite places to check off your Christmas list.
ARTHOUSE Unlimited
ARTHOUSE Unlimited is a collective of artists living with learning disabilities and difficulties. They work alongside instructors to create beautiful artworks and gorgeous products. All of the sales revenue goes towards sustaining the enterprise and offering a sense of purpose to the talented and skilled artists behind it. We particularly love their handmade ‘Freeze’ chocolate. A creamy, handmade white chocolate wrapped up in beautiful festive wrapping, what is there not to love?
Amphora Aromatics
If you want to treat someone this Christmas, look no further than Amphora Aromatics’ delightful range of natural skincare products. Their shea butter is utterly gorgeous on the skin and comes in a wide selection of delicious aromas such as Frankincense and Rose. It is the perfect gift for those who have missed out on their usual yearly quota of spa days.
Fushi Wellbeing
With every product handmade in their London workshop, Fushi Wellbeing specialise in creating pure, natural remedies using traditional Ayurvedic family recipes. They hand blend organic fresh pressed oils and ground herbs sourced from the world's most ethical producers into award-winning health and beauty products. The camellia organic oil would make a great stocking filler.
The Soy Candle Co.
There is nothing to get you in the Christmas spirit like snuggling up with a beautiful scented candle. Instead of going for the usual big-name labels, why not this year try out some of the smaller brands. The Soy Candle Co. is an independent line of luxury fragrances all handcrafted and hand-poured in small batches. For a heavenly scent, check out the Black Orchid and Gin & Tonic candles.
ONAIE
Make someone feel truly loved this Christmas by gifting them a pair of ONAIE’s beautiful sheepskin slippers. Each pair is handmade in Poland by a team of highly skilled craftspeople using the finest materials available. They are some of the cosiest shoes on the market and are completely one-of-a-kind.
Peachy Parrot
Want to add a bit of brightness to a loved one’s life? Peachy Parrot’s colourful range of homeware and accessories are bound to get them smiling. Their ethically handmade luxurious throws and cushions feature bold colour combinations and textures that will stand out in any home whilst also delivering on design and comfort. Their bath mats help you to dream you are on Summer Holiday every morning.
Flamingo Soap Co.
Another beautiful independent brand to support this Christmas is the Flamingo Soap Co. Their hand poured, artisan soaps are made with the highest quality oils and butters to cleanse and moisturise your skin. A base of organic unrefined shea butter, organic cocoa butter, organic coconut oil, olive oil and castor oil produces a strong and beautifully lathering bar that can be used on both hands and body.
Maddy Madison
Maddy Madison’s collection of bandanas are aimed at sparking conversations on topics such as mental health and gender equality. Each design tells a story and is for anyone who wants to use an everyday fashion accessory to raise awareness. The bandanas encourage not only women, but those from all walks of life to make a statement through something as simple as their clothing.
JAM Industries
The perfect gift for any outdoor lover this festive period has to be one of JAM Industries’ cosy knits or fleeces. This independent family brand focuses on making stylish comfy clothing that can be worn anywhere from the city to the coast. The soft blue and grey colour palette and deliciously soft fabrics make you yearn for a lazy day on the beach. Most of their pieces are made in small batches of limited editions.
Jaques of London
Following on from Netflix’s big-hit TV show ‘The Queen’s Gambit’, this year chess boards have been flying off the shelves. Everyone seems to be in training to become the next grandmaster. If you or someone you know is looking to join the club, check out Jaques of London for the finest wooden chess sets.
Spicer and Wood
With beautiful, pared-back pieces in soft, muted tones, Spicer and Wood is home to some of the most gorgeous minimalist homeware accessories on the market. I especially love their terracotta clay vases and all their glassware is so inviting. They have a love of Californian style and offer you the most luxurious choice of presents to give to someone special this year.
Mikaela Lyons
It would not be Christmas without a bit of sparkle. Luckily for us, Mikaela Lyons specialises in crafting charming, handmade jewellery that will shine the whole year round. Her lion-based talismans are designed to represent strength, individuality, confidence, equality, beauty and identity. Many of her pieces can be personalised and are all individually hallmarked with her unique maker’s stamp at Birmingham's Assay Office.
Jess Collett Milliner
For a classic Christmas gift, take a look at Jess Collett’s scrumptious range of colourful berets. The bestselling hat from one of the country’s foremost milliner’s is made from knitted angora and comes in Cherry, Slate Grey and Navy. They come with one pompom of your choice, but you can add others from a selection to have a new look for every day of the week.
We hope this has given you some fun ideas. As always, it is so great to hear from you, so mail through any questions or suggestions. Right now, more than ever, small businesses need your love and support, so even if you can’t buy, give them a follow and spread the love by telling a friend.
It’s been a crazy year, but if we all stick together (well, socially distanced, not touching, together!) and support one another, we will get through this. Keep safe. Keep smiling. With love x x