Small businesses have always had a special place in my heart, having grown up with my father running one since I was 6. I remember making most of my pocket money from sticking labels on pots and helping him package deliveries. I have seen first-hand the difficulties small businesses have faced over the years and the hard work that goes into making them a success. However, this year more than ever it is time to support our local businesses and give them the recognition they deserve.

This year I’m creating the ultimate small business gift guide to support those entrepreneurs who have kept grinding in a year more challenging the most. 

With complete transparency many of these businesses are friends of mine or friends of friends but by no means does that mean they aren’t top-notch.

Here is my small business gift guide with suggestions for who you could buy for:

Presents for Mums

Phoenix Style

If you follow my Instagram then you will have seen me frequently posting outfits from Phoenix. Although I do model their clothes for Instagram stories, this a business I truly love. Their whole mantra is giving pre-loved designer clothing a second home and what’s more some of the pieces have never been worn but everything is sold at a fraction of the original price.

Working for Phoenix has been so much fun because what girl doesn’t want to spend their weekend trying on designer clothes? If you are wanting to spoil your mum this Christmas to something designer but don’t want it to cost you the earth, then check out Phoenix for some fabulous deals. Here’s are some of my favourite pieces on their website:

Balmain Blazer RRP £1,595 – Phoenix price £350

Silk Aspinal Scarf RRP £125 – Phoenix £90 

Christian Louboutin Satin Sandals Size 5 RRP £1,195 Phoenix £295 

Buy online, or if you are local to Surrey then head over to the Phoenix Cobham or Wimbledon stores when lockdown lifts on December 2nd! 

Instagram: Phoenixstyle_

Presents for Dads

Cookequip

This one is particularly close to my heart, as my Dad is the owner of Cookequip. So all bias aside having run this business for over 15 years, the product speaks for itself. Hot Smoking is a quick and Camerons Stovetop Smokers are a fun way to cook, adding new flavours to all foods – Fish, Game, Meat, Veg, Cheese, Vegetables. With a string of past recommendations and one coming The Telegraph’s Gift Guide on 5^th Dec plus regularly appearing on Master Chef and the Great British Menu, this is definitely a present that your Dad will love.

Website: https://cookequip.co.uk/camerons-smokers

Presents for Families

Karishma Bakes

Christmas is the season where indulging is not only allowed but essential. What better way than to treat those you love with Christmas themed biscuits or a celebratory cake. 

Karishma is a school friend of mine who started a baking business earlier in the year. Her bakes are incredible and they make fantastic gifts, here are two of the creations she has made for my loved ones this year.

New Baby Biscuit Box

Some friends of mine just welcomed their first baby together into the world, gorgeous little Hudson. I knew he would have been spoiled with plenty of presents and wanted something rather different, Karishma’s biscuits were the ideal gift and made Hudson’s parents very emotional. 

Mum’s Birthday Cake

This cake was heavenly, my mom like most of us had a lockdown birthday back in May but restrictions were at their peak meaning we couldn’t do anything. Karishma’s cake was the centrepiece for the day and really was the perfect delivery for a very different day.

Instagram: Karishma_bakes

Presents for Partners/Parents

Lyric Art by Dominique

From Post Malone to Martin Luther King, Dominique creates the most incredible commissions using words to create a bigger picture. 

Her success has been recognised by Jurgen Klopp, who personally thanked her for this outstanding print:

These are truly beautiful gifts that I’m certain the special people in your life will appreciate and cherish. Dominique has a variety of prints already created and prices start from £35, alternatively from £80, you can have a commission of your own created.

Instagram: Dominiqueartist

Website: https://www.lyricartbydominique.com

In Joanna’s Hand

When life has changed so much, there is nothing more special than personalisation to make your loved ones feel like you are with them. In Joanna’s Hand is an art and cards business designed to spread a little joy. With bespoke commissions available it really is a wonderful way to spread some Christmas cheer and personalise messages to your loved ones. 

Instagram: Injoannashand

Website: https://www.injoannashand.uk

Presents for Friends

Beady Lookin’ Chains

Beady Lookin’ Chains is an amazing local brand created by one of my fabulous ex-colleagues. Having started during the lockdown heatwave the brand initially created chains for your sunglasses, there is nothing worse than losing your sunglasses. Now Lauren has expanded the product range and has mastered the art of making masks fashionable with these stunning beaded chain accessories.

All chains are completely customisable with the option to choose the bead colours and even have it personalised with your initials. Not only is this a wonderful gift, but Lauren has also created the Beads for Change initiative and 10% of profits are donated to charities.  

Instagram: Beadylookinchains

Urban Culture Club

Having asked my followers on Instagram to recommend small businesses, one of my university friends pointed me in the direction of Urban Culture Club – My word am I glad she did, this brand is awesome!
Designed and created in the UK, the brand focuses on high-quality cotton canvases made for Unisex fashion. 

My personal favourite is the ‘Forever Home Grown Long Sleeve Top’, my favourite trend is the ‘Sports Luxe Look’ and this really suits that vibe to a ‘tee’ (pardon the pun).

Instagram: Urbancultureclub

Website: https://www.urbancultureclub.co.uk

Rosie Rose Fragrances

I’m an absolute fragrance fanatic, scents have the ability to take me straight back to happy memories and I always hold onto the empty bottles. 

One of my wonderful school friends has started Rosie Rose Fragrances, which houses a plethora of affordable designer inspired perfumes for both men and women. Check out her Instagram for amazing deals on top fragrance dupes for Chanel Coco Mademoiselle, Dior Sauvage and Jo Malone Pomegrante Noir

Instagram: Rosierosefragrances