Five alternative Christmas Present ideas that will support small businesses

Nov 7, 2019COMMERCIAL, WEDDING PLANNING

Christmas is fast approaching and I wanted to give you some gift ideas that would also help support small businesses and entrepreneurs like me. Shopping small and local is also good for the planet because the main thing destroying it (in my opinion) is the way we overproduce and over consume so that’s an extra bonus!

Since we’ve touched on the subject already, can we also banish Christmas crackers pretty please? And if you’re going to be buying stocking fillers, let them be plastic free and useful. I’ve been guilty of buying silly things no one needs or wants and I know I’m not the only one. Let’s make it a thoughtful Christmas.

Let me start by saying that none of these people are paying me to promote their work, I’m just a fan of what they do and I want to share it with as many people as possible.

It was only once I finished writing this that I realised all of these businesses are powered by women. When I set out to compile a list it was not my intention but I’m very happy it turned out this way.

So let’s get shopping, shall we?

#1 CHRISTMAS PRESENT IDEA – Holistic treatment or massage from Purnima Therapies.

Melanie is an extremely perceptive and kind soul and she’s incredibly good at her job. She offers an array of different treatments including reiki, deep tissue massage, reflexology and more.

Whenever I go see Mel (my job as a photographer is quite taxing so I’ve been going regularly for the last 3 years) I come out feeling like a new person. Her massages are good for the soul as well as the body.

She’s based on little East Street in Brighton, so very central and convenient. To get in touch with her and book an appointment or buy a voucher just send her an email.

Approximate price range – £60

Get in touch:

Website: www.reflexology-reiki-brighton.com

Email: melanie@purnimatherapies.com

#2 CHRISTMAS PRESENT IDEA – Handmade jewellery by Vannucchi Jewellery.

Using mostly wood and brass, “Vannucchi is a slow fashion, unique and affordable jewellery brand. Handmade in the South East of England.”

I’ve been known to treat myself to a few pieces by Dani, the woman behind this beautiful brand. They’re gorgeous, cool, different and affordable. In short: everything a girl could want.

You can purchase some ready-to-wear pieces straight form her Etsy store. Dani also makes custom pieces but they do take some time, so if you were thinking of going down that route make sure you get in touch with her asap.

Approximate price range – £16 to £50

Get in touch:

IG @vannucchijewellery

Etsy: www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Vannucchi

#3 CHRISTMAS PRESENT IDEA – Vegan treats from Tiny Sarah’s Cakes.

Now here’s something different, tasty and fun! In Sarah’s shop you’ll find all sorts of different treats that come in a box or even in a jar. Choose from a childhood dreams box, cake in a jar, cupcakes or even a subscription (with no engagement!).

Impossible to resist, right?

Approximate price range – £16 to £50

Get in touch:

IG @tinysarahscakes

FB @tinysarahscakes

Website: www.tinysarahscakes.co.uk

#4 CHRISTMAS PRESENT IDEA – A photo session with me!

In this technological era, chance are we all have hundreds of photos of ourselves but how many that we really love? More crucially, have you printed any? Having their photo taken is not everyone’s cup of tea but I promise it can be fun and enjoyable.

Getting a voucher for a mini session could be a portrait session for someone else, a couple session for you and your other half or even a couple session for two special people in your life, or as a like to call it: the two presents with one stone approach.

This is also a great idea if you know someone who owns a small business and needs professional photos for their website/social media. I know first hand that it can be hard to budget for marketing expenses so it makes for a great present.

Mini sessions are one hour, they include 10 edited photos and 5 prints of your choice with the option to purchase more. Just send me an email!

Price £150

Get in touch:

IG @manonpauffin

Email: hello@manonpauffin.com

Website: www.manonpauffin.com

#5 CHRISTMAS PRESENT IDEA – An uber cool leather jacket from Sarah Baily.

If you’re looking to step up your gift giving game, these jackets are exactly what you need.

I spent an entire weekend next to Sarah’s stand at The Un-Wedding Show and I saw a variety of women with a variety of figures try these one. The punchiline? They suited every single woman who tried them on and were incredibly flattering. It’s that cropped cut that does it.

You’ll find many other items as well on the shop: rock n roll cushions, kickass belt bags, card wallets and more.

Approximate price range – £30 to £320

Get in touch:

IG @sarahbaily

Website: www.sarahbaily.com

Take your christmas gifts to the next level with Luna June Paper Co.

Now that you’ve got your presents, it’s time to wrap them and make them look pretty. Emily from Luna June has you covered!

In her shop you’ll find gorgeous minimalist and monochrome gift tags and christmas cards made 100% from recycled paper.

If you’ve found this blogpost helpful I’d love to hear about it in the comments. And don’t forget to let me know if you buy a christmas gift from someone on this list!

manon x

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