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There's no denying it, this year has been especially tough on small businesses. I won't get into the politics of it (that's for another time over a pint), and whilst there's not much more we can do but stay home and keep safe, one thing we do still have power over, is where we spend our money.
I made the pledge a few years ago to only buy my Christmas gifts from small businesses, both online and at local gift markets, and this year, I am urging you to make the same pledge! These are some of my favourites, so go and check them out and make a small business person jump for joy!
Shadow and Ghost
Susie at Shadow and Ghost hand makes the most beautiful clothes, nightwear and gifts from her studio in Derbyshire. She uses sustainable linen and a stunning selection of Liberty prints, her stockings in particular are a firm Christmas favourite.
I have a few dresses from S&G and I can't tell you how comfortable they are, and they have pockets!
Daisy Lee Jewels
Daisy designs and makes her beautiful, nature inspired jewellery from her studio in Sheffield. She uses the finest precious metals to make her pieces and these floret earrings are certainly stealing the show! She also takes on bespoke work if you wanted to have something special designed in her unique style for someone special.
Fison Zair
Katy's amazing poly clay pieces have always been a favourite of mine. She has a wonderful eye for mixing colour and pattern and I love that she's now branched out into these wall hangings to go along side her beautiful jewellery.
Bramble & Fox
Bex at Bramble & Fox has put together the most glorious shop of delights. Specialising in all things Hygge, she mixes amazing brands, beautiful vintage finds and her own super creative makes to create a selection of treats to help us all to slow down a bit. She also has a delightful lifestyle blog - I especially love her recipe for pumpkin spice - so cosy!
The Shed Space and Store
Ahhh, The Shed, possibly one of my favourite places in the world! It's cosy and inviting, it always smells amazing, the cake is sublime and the hosts are warm and wonderful. Unfortunately, the days of going to The Shed are on hold for now, but they still have an amazing online shop full of all the bits that make their beautiful space sing. Cards, homeware, gifts, tea and coffee - all wrapped up in their beautiful packaging, with care and love.
They also have gift vouchers which can be used for future workshops that will take place in this gorgeous space (hint hint!).
Alex Sickling
I met Alex a few years ago at a ceramics fair in London, I now have a few of her pieces, each of which I totally love. If you love cute and quirky (and animals) then you'll love her pieces. I have one of her cat tree decorations which, I'm not ashamed to say, didn't get packed away last Christmas and has been cheering me up all year!
Of the Wild
Not only does Kath make beautiful bouquets and wreaths (Sheffield delivery or collection), this year she's put together some of her stunning photographs to make this beautiful 2021 calendar. I'm certainly hoping that 2021 will be a bit better for all of us, and with this calendar on the wall I think you'll be well on your way to a happier year!
Chunky Knit Boutique
The wonderful Gina hand knits these gorgeous blankets from 100% merino wool at her home in North Yorkshire. She has the most lovely selection of colours and packs them up all pretty and ready for you to snuggle up under - get your cuppa ready and your pj's on - perfect for all those Christmas movies!
Ruby Lous Treat Co.
The most delicious treats - cookies, bakes, doughs and bake at home kits - all delivered to your door! I've had a few of the cookie dough pots in my time, as well as a fair few (dozen) cookies! Mmmmmmm... I'm salivating at the very thought. Basically, buy some now and thank me later.
I realise I'm not even remotely suggesting that you buy this for anyone else, I guess this would make the most amazing gift I ever got that far with it. Maybe give that a go? Maybe...
Shameless Plug
It's my blog post... so why can't I tell you to buy from ME?
A little reminder that I'm taking pre-orders for my click and collect Winter Wreaths until November 20th and my e-book 'Cut Flower Growing for Beginners' is always available on my shop!
