The myth about shopping small
Since launching Woven by Eve in spring, I have had the absolute joy of joining the world of independent makers in the Yorkshire region. I’ve started conversations, met wonderful people and been inspired by their creativity.
Something I’ve been surprised by is the perception that ‘shop small = more expensive’. I really don’t think that is the case - it’s a myth! Yes, makers have to charge enough to make money but it’s often not that much higher than what you’d pay in a high street shop or online.
So, I hope you have your Christmas shopping list handy as I share with you five wonderful small businesses to support this festive season. If you missed part one click here to check it out. (Or maybe like me, this will help you write your own gift list…!)
1. Alex Marie Artistry
The lovely Alex is Yorkshire-based and handmakes bright and bold homewares for your space. Alex uses eco-friendly resins (sustainability points!) to make plant pots, tealight holders, vases, mirrors, jewellery and more. There are lots of different gift ideas here to browse through but I really love these large decorative trays full of colour.
2. Joy Jen Studio
I’ve been following Jenna’s work for years and love watching her get creative in the great outdoors. She is a mixed-media artist based in Yorkshire and travels to gather inspiration for her beautiful paper goods. If you’re after stunning prints, notebooks and stationery inspired by that natural world this is the place to look. I recommend the calendars (if there are any left) - they are excellent quality and just beautiful!
3. Amy Panda
Amy makes the most adorable embroidered badges. Her floral and botanical designs are so incredibly detailed and are all hand-stitched, making them completely unique. They make the most perfect stocking-stuffer for any age. I hear the broccoli badges are surprisingly popular amongst children!
@iamamypanda
4. Kirrou Candle
Mei is Lincolnshire-based just over the bridge from me in East Yorkshire. She makes cute candles in super fun designs from clouds to grumpy cats and brains. Everything is hand-poured and hand-painted and made with love. Candles are such a great gift and the winter collection is too cute. No one can have too many candles, right?!
5. Rachel Mahon Print
Rachel’s based in the Midlands and creates the most beautiful contemporary print designs. Her botanically-inspired patterns make a beautiful range of cards that are printed on quality paper and other goodies including tea towels and tote bags. If you need to top up your Christmas card stash, this is the place!
6. Woven by Eve
Okay, here’s a cheeky bonus one: me! I make unique handwoven wall hangings and bookmarks from sustainably sourced fibres here in sunny East Yorkshire. Do check out my online shop for the woven goodness and drop me a message if you're interested in a completely unique piece as I take commissions too.
Why should you shop small this Christmas?
After a tough season financially for us all, it is more important than ever that we shop small and local when we can. By putting your hard-earned cash back into your local community, you are creating a more sustainable world. The money is more evenly distributed and it stays in your local area, so you and your community continue to benefit. Not only that but you are also supporting passionate people, investing in them and their creativity and enabling people to do what they are good at. Shipping miles are less so the planet thanks you.
I hope this helps you with your Christmas shopping and that I haven’t shown you too many wonderful things! I’ll certainly be popping by some of these lovely makers at markets or online in the coming weeks to finish my Christmas shopping.
Happy sustainable shopping!
Eve
To read my previous blog post click here.
To follow me on Instagram for more click here.
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