Shop Small this Christmas

Now, more than ever, is the time to support indie businesses. Here’s why.

It’s KIND to the Planet. When you buy directly from the maker, you completely cut down on carbon footprints. Small businesses also have the advantage of sourcing materials ethically and have one to one relationships with suppliers. 

Unique Pieces. Artisan/handmade products are one of a kind finds. Often you can grab items that absolutely nobody else will have at an amazing price.

It makes you feel great. And there is nothing wrong with that. It’s no myth that every time you shop small, there is another person on the other end who does a happy dance! Often, customers are buying directly from the very person who is the maker of the product. 

Gifts with a Story. Giving gifts that are made locally and come with a story behind them are an additional bonus! The recipient will love an item that is sourced locally. 

Probably the best customer service in the world. Small businesses are made on word of mouth. Rest assured that if there are any problems, they will quickly be resolved. Whatsmore, when you have a question or query, you just know the depth of knowledge feeding back will be so much more amazing coming from the person lives and breathes this business!

If you do want to shop small this Christmas but are stuck for ideas, here are some of our favourite small ethical brands + businesses: 

Kabisa African Creations a social enterprise that promotes and honours artisan skills of East African Women’s groups (they have gorgeous napkins btw!) www.etsy.com/uk/shop/KabisaAfrican?ref 

Pasha Living Resort wear, accessories, homewares sourced ethically + slow fashion. pasha living.com/ 

Koko Collective Ethically led pet + people apparel for those who want to wear a different story. kokocollective.co.uk 

The Kentish Produce Company Monthly subscription box packed with treats made by Kentish producers. They’ve got some really amazing Christmas boxes too. thekentishproducecompany.co.uk/gifts

Sasik Zanzibar Handmade furnishing covers & wall hangings from a women’s craft co-op in Zanzibar. Find them on Instagram @sasikzanzibar 

Timeout Bags Kids Activity Packs including Christmas Eve Packs + loads of Lockdown gifts. timeoutbags.com 

The Greedy Book Not a product but a great place to find them + keep yourself organised! The Greedy Book is an online wishlist and finder of lovely stuff. An easy way to collect, organise and keep track of the things you want from any online store. Create and share a library of items you’d love to own. thegreedybook.co.uk

Gooseberry Field Glamping Boutique clamping site with 8 furnished 5m bell tents, hot tub & wood fired oven in the beautiful countryside of Kent (one hour from London!). They are offering Christmas Gift Vouchers for Luxury Camping Weekend. Really, who wouldn’t want a weekend away given the current circumstances?!  gooseberryfieldcampsite.com