So with the sound of jingling bells in the near distance, now comes the time when we start thinking about gifts for our little and big loved ones.
Shopping independent at this time of year makes such a difference not only to the makers and creators but the recipient. A little extra love and thought goes into these gifts, the time and process of making and individually packing, multiple post office trips, as well as “normal life” continuing. The little details and sprinkle of care is in my opinion what makes a gift. To heck with the high street, of course we need it, but we also need these lovelies who are buried in wool,bobbles, and mama merch too. So…..
Here’s my little list on some of my favourite independent treasures made with love by wonderful people.
1. Lovely Ink Prints
http://www.lovelyink.co.uk
When it comes to prints I have always been a big fan of the simple but effective and my goodness are these prints wonderfully monochrome, they would be a beautiful little feature in any nursery or playroom. Their hand brushed design makes them completely unique and some items can even be personalised with a name or a special quote. With art prints, milestone cards and Christmas decorations to choose from you won’t be disappointed by this lovely little trove. Don’t get me started on the “baby bear” print. This Mama has just started out on the independent journey so check her out and show her some love!
2. The Munch Store
http://www.mummyandthemunch.com/munchstore
The Munch Store has a great collection of bobbled hats for Mamas and their little Munches. Nowadays twinning is definitely winning and this site meets all your twinning needs. With proceeds from each hat going to Bliss charity which supports babies who are born prematurely or poorly. There are so many fun colours to choose from and if you’re feeling adventurous you can even mix up your colour choices too, making your twinning statement a special one. How’s that for service!
3. Faithful City Knits
http://www.faithfulcityknits.etsy.com
Now as you may know my little family and I have quite a thing for hats. You can never have too many in my opinion. This beautiful shop of beautiful hand knitted hats and other wonders has been a favourite of mine for a while now. There are a couple of different designs made with love and toasty thick wool, and are not only made for your little cherubs but for you too. The quality and tasteful colour ways will leave you wanting it all and let’s face it who doesn’t want their baby in a pumpkin hat!
4. Mother Like No Other
http://www.motherlikenoother.bigcartel/products
Now I’ve only just come across this little store recently and I fell in love straight away. There are only a couple of items for sale but they are great, the retro design drew me in straight away. Representing motherhood without judgement to others with their punchy logo and a donation from each item going to Tommys miscarriage charity, means you’re giving to an amazing cause whist looking great too. I can’t wait to see this company grow and what they next up their sleeve.
5. The Cat In The Shoe
http://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/thecatintheshoe
Now this little magic maker is like no other, beautiful hand made textile art in the shape of wonderful creatures. Be it inspired by old children’s stories, nature or a real life person these pieces are so unique you can spot then a mile away. The detail and effort that goes into each order is breathtaking, from cutting out hundreds of mermaid scales to carefully sewing tiny shoes onto these curious characters. I can honestly say I feel lucky to own a couple of her pieces and they mean the world (or moon in my case) to me. This busy little bee has made some Christmas decorations that will be sold in her etsy store, but grab one quick as they sell out in minutes!!!
6. A Kind Mama
http://www.akindmama.com
Now be warned, this Instagram page will leave you licking your lips, tummy rumbling and needing to order! This lovely lady has a bakery stall where she sells her sweet treats, but online orders can also be made for mixed boxes and oh so tasty looking brownies. I’m definitely going to grab a bag of brownie mix for some Christmas indulgence. Plus, did i mention that everything in the shop is VEGAN…HOORAY!!!
7. Colour Me Happy Crayons
http://www.colourmehappycrayons.co.uk
This shop is so fun…so all children love crayons but this little stop takes it up a notch or two! What lovely and special stocking fillers would these make? A pack of personalised crayons in various colours will leave your little one learning name recognition as well as enjoying colouring. There are also some lovely little Christmas designs too along with so many other ridiculously sweet ones to choose from!
8. Parker and Posie
http://www.parkerandposie.bigcartel.com
I’m completely in love with this shop and these magical little shoes. A friend had shown me a pair online and I knew I had to have a pair for Sonny. Coming all the way from Calgary, Canada, these special shoes made their way to me and I wasn’t disappointed…in fact I was in love. With lots of different colours and patterns to choose from, you’ll be scrolling down this sight dreaming for them all… I know I do!
*Please check with these store when their Christmas shipping is so you don’t miss out!*
So to be honest I could go on and on, but this is a good thing. There are so many lovely independent shops out there but these are my favourites. So check them out, get some ideas, gift away. Let me know what you think…please feel free to add your favourite independent shop too below! Happy Christmas you beautiful bunch! ❤ xxx

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