You’ve probably heard recently that Christmas shopping, more than ever, has been directed to supporting small businesses. As everyone has pointed out Jeff Bezos (founder of Amazon) has enough money (too much in my opinion) whereas small businesses have really struggled.
As a small print seller I can understand the pressure and difficulty to promote your work when everyone is under financial strain. I think a lot of people could agree that every single purchase means the absolute world. So, why not support small this year when Christmas gives you the chance to put a huge smile on your loved ones faces.
I have wanted to put a small guide together for a while, not only with some amazing businesses but also some tips and tricks on how best to get the most out of your shopping.
Hand Embroidery Kits
The gift that keeps on giving! Something like an embroidery kit gives someone a new skill and something to hang on their wall/put on a cushion etc.
You can get them in a variety of different designs to suit any individual and the majority of them will tell you what skill level you will need.
I’ve listed a few below from Etsy which I have heard great things about!
Tip 1: It goes without saying but if you’re buying from the likes of Etsy stores it is a great idea to look at reviews and also where they are based. I always do research on the company and tend to go to Instagram to look at their pages. When on instagram it is also a good idea to look at tagged photos, this way you can see what people think of the products.
Resin Products
Resin products have become immensely popular recently, especially through lockdown. The variety of products you can get from them provides you with the optimum opportunity for gift giving. Plus every seller has their own way of putting their personal touch on their products.
I’ve listed two below who are trustworthy sellers and who provide a range of different things!
The Gift of Food
Food, in my opinion, is one of the best gifts you can give someone. There are so many businesses this year which have adapted their meals into delivery boxes or have taken their sweet treats right to your door. It’s a great ‘thinking about you’ gift and can often help with the day after Christmas cooking nightmare.
I’ve included 2 businesses which I have heard great things about however if you have any other suggestions please let me know below!
- Stacks Brownie Box
- Grape & Fig (High End Grazing Boxes)
Classes
Another great gift is giving an experience to someone. This way you’re giving someone a memory which they will have forever (and in some cases an extra little gift at the end of it).
I’ve mentioned two below, one in Edinburgh and one in my hometown. If you have any classes local to you that you’d like to promote feel free to add them in the comments and I can include them in this post!
- Lindsay Gallacher Jewellery Class (North of Scotland – Thurso)
- Paint your own Pottery (Edinburgh)
Jewellery
There are a lot of places you can pick up Jewellery now a days but I thought I’d show you two of my local businesses from home who sell fantastic high quality pieces.
Perfect for a special gift for your loved one. Both businesses have a wide range of jewellery on offer.
Clothes
As you know I am a huge fan/advocate for shopping sustainably. For Christmas I would recommend double checking clothes sizes and getting something you know someone will want to wear over and over again. Christmas is a time where loads go to waste so the more thought that goes into these items the better!
I’ve listed a couple of my favourite small business fashion brands who you can either buy vouchers from or shop at.
- Coastline (fashion online store and truck)
- Shopgeethanks (sustainably sourced second hand items, online)
- Godiva (vintage, repurposed and independently sourced clothing, store and online)
Art
I can’t mention a small business gift guide and not include one of my favourite things! Art is very subjective (which I have very much learnt when selling it) however it’s a great way to give someone something sentimental.
I have attached a few of my favourite sellers, all offering something a bit different depending on what you like. I also have my own print shop where I have a select amount left for Christmas if you fancy supporting my small business.
- Inspired by Caithness
- Anna Cheng (illustrator)
- Shannon Casey
I’ve only mentioned a few of my favourite businesses however there are so many more you can support. Other places to look are Not on the High Street, Etsy, Instagram (check out hashtags such as #shopsmall or #supportsmallbusinesses), Depop and ask your friends and family! Everyone is bound to know someone.
And so there we have it. That is my list of some of my favourite small businesses which have a great selection of gifts on offer.
As always with small businesses it is better to get your orders in soon because you never know how many people will be dealing with the behind the scenes. Plus shipping can be really difficult at this time of year.
If you’re not in a financial position to support any of them this year, giving them a follow or a share on your social media channels can do the world of good!
Have you got your Christmas shopping organised or do you have any more small businesses to shout out? Let me know below!
Much love,
Sophie x
Sophie's Edit 