Christmas during a pandemic. It’s not a scenario any of us expected to be dealing with, but here we are, trying to make the best of it.
It’s no secret that small businesses across the UK are struggling. Not only are we all staying home, but many of us are having to be more careful with what we spend - furlough is the new “F” word we’re all avoiding.
The good news is that by being more selective in where you spend your money this Christmas, you can make a huge difference to small, independent businesses all over the country. Unlike multinational companies who avoid paying their fair share (we’re looking at you Amazon), spending money with local businesses keeps the economy going and makes Christmas a little brighter for those working hard behind the scenes.
So, without further ado, here are just a few of the fabulous small businesses we think you’ll love.
Planet Picnic | @planet.picnic
When it comes to reducing waste, lunch is a great place to start. Forget the cling film, step away from the single-use plastics, and instead, invest in these gorgeous reusable snack and storage bags from Planet Picnic. Not only are these fabulous for all the family, but the funky fabrics are sure to brighten up your daily lunch prep.
Honeywell Biscuit Co | @honeywellbiscuitco
Fan of the Great British Bake Off? Treat yourself to some heavenly bakes from the team at Honeywell. With gorgeous personalised gifts, baking kits and subscription boxes for both young and old, you’re sure to find the perfect pressie for someone special in your life.
Pure Shave | @pure_shave
Let’s face it, toiletries make the perfect gift for the difficult-to-buy for man. Shaving cream and moisturiser are always a safe bet, but often they’re poor quality and heavy on the plastic packaging. Enter, Pure Shave. Refillable, eco-friendly shaving products enriched with Vitamin E and sweet almond oil. Yes, please!
All About Teddy | @all_about_teddy_shop
Looking for beautiful personalised baby footprints, nursery pictures or custom pet portraits? Make sure to check out About Teddy. You’ll find some wonderful gifts for new parents or grandparents, but there’s also plenty of options for other recipients too, with the style of art lending itself well to commissions.
Rosie Loves Tea | @rosielovestea
For an inexpensive gift, check out Rosie Loves Tea’s online shop. With scrumptious loose-leaf blends of black, oolong, white and herbal teas (to name a few), there’s something for everyone. While you’re there, try out some of the delicious recipes on the blog - I can personally recommend the Meyer Lemon and Lady Grey Drizzle Cake!
Coffee JAR | @coffeejar
More of a coffee drinker than a tea connoisseur? Check out Coffee JAR, offering small-batch, freshly roasted coffee beans directly to your door. We can’t think of a better way to start the weekend, can you?
YuYu Bottle | @yuyubottle
A body-length, hot and cold water bottle?! Yes, please! With the winter night drawing in, the cosy YuYu Bottle is a godsend. We also love it for relieving cramps, aches and pains, and for their gorgeous designs.
Ziggy & Dot | @ziggy_and_dot
If you’re looking for gorgeous home decor, look no further. Ziggy & Dot produce stunning personalised products that will be loved by kids and adults alike. New orders aren’t being taken until January, but we’re sharing anyway because these make the most wonderful gifts for birthdays too.
We really are spoiled for choice when it comes to amazing businesses in the UK, despite the hurdles that Covid-19 has created for so many over the year. Please show these awesome companies your support by shopping small this Christmas!
Originally from New Zealand, Sarah is a mother to two boys and has lived in the UK for the past 10 years. She is a home-educator, freelance writer, Netflix-binger and has a penchant for strong black coffee.
