T'is the season for gingerbread lattes, mistletoe and showing our loved ones how much they mean to us with a little festive token. If you're looking for stocking filler ideas, we've found some chic and unique buys from small businesses that not only ensure your gift is original, but also support independent brands at the same time.
At a time when small businesses need our help more than ever, these thoughtful gifts can help you give something back whilst scoring some serious brownie points with your friends and family.
Willowberry Skincare
Our very own brand! Founded by former beauty editor Jenni Retourné, Willowberry was born from a desire to provide a highly effective natural skincare range for grown-up women navigating skin changes through life.
A make-up artist must-have, loved by Ruby Hammer, Caroline Barnes, Hannah Martin and many more, the nourishing Willowberry Nutrient Boost Face Oil is a perfect stocking filler this Christmas, for good skin glow.
Willowberry Nutrient Boost Face Oil, £26.99 Willowberry Skincare
Ham Made
Founded by artist Joanna Ham, Jo uses Rabbit to shine a light on life’s simple pleasures - in particular how we interact with one another through work and play. The resulting social commentary creates HAM's world, where our daily rituals and hobbies are immortalised in print and accessories for all to enjoy.
Ski Jumping Rabbit Enamel Pin, £7.50, Ham Made
Ruby Hammer
With a career in the beauty industry spanning over 25 years, Ruby has become one of the best-known, loved and respected make-up artists in the business. Strongly believing that make up shouldn’t have to be a mask, she urges people to use make up to emphasise their best features and to embrace what is unique about their face. This brush set is a great tool to do just that.
Magnetic Brush Set, £28 Ruby Hammer
Edit Fashion & Homeware
Inspired by the community spirit of Petts Wood, store owner Lily James has created a space for locals to discover unique products made by independent suppliers. As well as stocking a variety of clothing, gifts and homewares, the Edit also hosts a range of free in-store events creating a relaxed social shopping experience.
Orelia Flat Snake Chain Necklace, £15 Edit Fashion & Homeware
Lillian Daph
After doing extensive research during her textile degree, founder Christina decided to launch her own interior space in the North East. Stocking mainly Scandinavia brands, such as Broste Copenhagen, Umage, Madam Stoltz, Viva Raise, Dutch Bone and Nkuku, along with local and global makers and artists, there's something for everyone.
Broste Copenhagen Small Stoneware Nibble Bowl On Feet, £4.50 Lillian Daph
Lion Sparkles
What started as a passion project for founder Beth Lothian has become a must-visit shopping destination. Mum to seven boys, the online boutique is full of unique, well-sourced, vibrant and dazzling gifts and accessories that can be worn by anyone who needs to match a personality bursting with fun and colour with their outfit.
Shell Hoops, £12, The Lion Sparkles
Scamp and Dude
Created by Jo Tutchener-Sharp, Scamp and Dude was born after Jo suffered a brain haemorrhage in 2015. The heartache she felt for leaving her children whilst in hospital inspired a brand that helps children feel more secure when apart from their loved ones.
Swag Bag, £24 Scamp & Dude
Still Life Story
Situated in Stockport's historic old town, founder Ruby Friel has led a career as a florist and product designer. Her world travel has inspired her to create a unique and independent boutique full of natural materials and local resources wherever possible.
Black Geo Zinnia Hanging Planter, £9 Still Life Story
Paradise Boutique
Offering a beautiful range of handpicked womenswear and gifts from around the world, Paradise Boutique is located in the village of East Molesey. Boutique owner Helen searches for unique pieces with interesting stories behind them, ensuring shoppers know where and how each item has been created.
Athouse Limited Lady Muck Body Scrub with Lavender and Bergamot, £20 Paradise Boutique
Pekoe Tea
Founded by boutique owner Jon Cooper, Pekoe Tea imports small batch hand-made teas from around the world and blends their own flavoured teas from scratch.
Lemongrass And Ginger Tea, £5.50 PekoeTea Edinburgh
Vintage Bay
Located in the lively town of Hitchin, Vintage Bay is run by founder Amy, who draws inspiration from Alpine and rustic styling. With a passion for vintage, Amy travels the globe to source products for her boutique, providing customers with a unique range to shop from.
Magpie Butterfly Coaster Set, £12.99 Vintage Bay
Willowberry is 'Nutritious Natural' skincare for grown-ups for your best skin. Launched in 2017, Willowberry is an award-winning independent British brand that has gained a cult following. Loved by top make-up artists, the streamlined, highly effective range protects skin’s natural barrier function to nourish and transform grown-up skin, with indulgent formulas that feed the skin and soul.