Shopping Small this Christmas
Christmas is just around the corner and although it is going to be very different this year, it can still be a time to spread love, peace and joy. One way we can do this is by choosing to do our Christmas shopping with small, independent businesses who need our support this year more than ever. I thought it might be useful to create a short directory of charities and small businesses with amazing services and products for you to refer to whilst working through your Christmas shopping list. A big thank you to everyone who sent me recommendations to include in this list.
Yoga Stuff
Studio Knoga - Ethical, organic, sustainable products made in the New Forest. Trousers, crops, bolsters, eye pillows and more.
Wolf and Mermaid - Eco-friendly and non-toxic yoga products and prints in the most gorgeous vibrant colours.
Planted Yoga Rugs - Beautiful yoga mats, prints and tote bags designed with a love for nature and movement in mind.
Mona Yoga Vouchers - Yep - that’s me! I’m selling gift vouchers for yoga and/or meditation online or in person.
Smelly Stuff
Precious Crystal Sanctuary - Eco-conscious homemade soy candles and wax melts.
The Forest of Dean Candle Company - Environmentally conscious rapeseed wax candles, hand poured in the Forest of Dean. Very reasonable price too!
Pretty Stuff
Olive Products - Stunning real, preserved and hand tied natural flower bunches.
Sam Throws Pots - Quirky, one of a kind, handmade ceramic products including beautiful tealight holders and jugs.
Laura Wathen Jewellery - Bright, bold and beautiful handcrafted jewellery. Some really unique and stunning designs.
Sophia Clahar Designs - Art prints and handmade products. I love Sophia’s Christmas range which she has just released. I’ve already bought myself the ‘Peace’ print and can’t wait for it to arrive!
Yummy stuff
Cactus Kitchen Gals - Yummy vegan treats available for delivery, in addition to amazing downloadable recipes.
Bare Cacao - Organic roasted ground cacao to make a caffeine free alternative to coffee.
Gift Vouchers - Gift vouchers for independently run cafes and restaurants can make amazing Christmas gifts! Some of my favourites in Worthing are Malt, South by West, Yamu Yamu, Aunty Bunny’s Hut and Finch.
Charities
Charities also need our support this year. A donation to a non-profit organisation can be a lovely heart-felt alternative to a traditional Christmas gift. Here are some smaller charities that might be grateful for your support.
GRACE - A small charity helping women facing gynaecological cancers.
Turning Tides - Helping people facing homelessness in West Sussex.
Guild Care - Delivering care services which help older people, children and adults with a disability in West Sussex.
St Barnabas House - A charity based in Worthing which provides care to adults with life-limiting illnesses.
Local Foodbank - You can also donate goods to a local foodbank to help in the fight against hunger this Christmas. This website allows you to find a bank near you.
Do you know of any independent businesses or small charities to add to this list? Please let me know!