Supporting local business in a new way…
Here in the UK, we are about to enter lockdown 2.0 and although this has come with mixed views, we still have one thing on our minds….Christmas.
We will still be able to send gifts and well wishes to our families despite this break. We’ll just have to shop predominantly online and in advance to normal times, but hey, whats normal anyway?…. I don’t know about you but I love picking out gifts for others and even making them. I get such a sense of joy from giving, no matter what the circumstances.
Over here on The Coastal Native, brands are featured but we like to include smaller businesses so i’d like to take you through a small selection that i’ve found and LOVE for gifts or for that treat yourself moment!
Kindred Fires are a Manchester based company that make bespoke candles for any occasion. If theres a go to gift on my list for the holidays, it’s a cosy candle. Whether you’re pulling together a themed gift basket, buying for secret santa or looking for a stocking filler, it’s a must have.
One of my favourites is the advent calendar candle. It’s such a unique idea to help someone from afar get into the festive spirits AND you can get the recipients name(s) on the label. Initial gifts have also seen a rise in popularity in the last year or so and the one seen above is so stylish for the home. In fact, you’re spoilt for choice on the site with design and fragrances.
Candles start at £16 with most having a 25 hour burn time. All products are natural soy wax thats hand poured in small batches, overall better for your home environment too. Oh and if you sign up to their mailing list you can get 10% off your first order!
Heres one for the fellas in your life. Watson & Wolfe are based in Guildford and make expertly crafted, vegan and eco friendly leather goods. Oh and cruelty free too! I always struggle with buying for males over females, I don’t know why…it just happens that way. Well, if this is you as well, then struggle no more. A well crafted leather accessory is always a solid bet, not only for its practicality but for its longevity.
You can browse a huge range of products over on their website and read all about their strong values. Personally I love the values that have been set out, it’s important to keep sustainability in mind, especially during Christmas when excess waste is higher. I’ve featured some of my favourites above. One of these is part of a new range of cork belts, who knew! They’re natural and biodegradable whilst being stylish and modern.
To make that gift extra special, they have a personalisation service on many of their products. You can choose up to four initials to give that added touch.
Even closer to home for me, based in Worthing is The. Em. Edit. Specialising in modern abstract prints that will brighten up any space! Coming in a range of sizes and 2 different paper options, this can make the perfect gift for a friend or a family member who loves a trendy edge in their abode.
What I really loved about the prints were their versatility. There is a little something for every colour palette you could have in your space and if you’re not sure about colour, theres a range of neutral palette prints for you! This is the perfect opportunity for a treat yourself as well, with prints starting at just £10.50 with Free UK delivery. You can grab 2 prints on a mix and match for £18 and 3 prints for £26. Can I hear gallery walls going up right now?
You can shop the full range online through Etsy.
Do you have any go to independent sellers? Let me know by putting their names in the comments below!
We’ll be talking more about Christmas in the next few weeks to come.
Stay safe and positive everyone! x