Support Small, Shop Local
The festive season is fast approaching and for those who celebrate this usually means it’s time to start thinking about those perfect gifts for loved ones, it's also the perfect time to consider the impact of our shopping choices.
By choosing to support small businesses and local makers, we can make a significant difference in our communities. Not only can you find a wide variety of unique and ethical goods, you are supporting the local economy - plus you just know that every single order will be incredibly appreciated. When you shop small, you're not just buying a product; you're investing in the dreams and hard work of real people.
Local Gems: Bristols Best
Bristol is a hugely creative city and has a variety of independent retailers as well as a whole host of festive markets; here are a few of my favourites:
Bristol Pop up shop - Hosting 100 creative makers running from 14 Nov - 24 December in the Galleries (Bristol) - You can also find Just Plain Charming goodies here this year too!
Prior shop - My favourite of independent retailers hosting over 150 makers and run by the wonderful and inspiration Beck. In store in Cabot Circus and also online!
Bristol Market - Online only but based in Bristol, it is a wonderful marketplace to browse a wide variety of local wares
Independent Collective - Online and In store in North Street a lovely collection of handcrafted gifts made by artists who live and work in Bristol.
Magic Markets
If you enjoy browsing through stalls filled with unique treasures, then perhaps Bristol's many markets are the right space for you. Here is a little run down of a number of great markets in Bristol.
Chew Valley Independent Market - 14 Dec
Bristol Vegan Market - 7 Dec
Made in Bristol Gift Fair - 7/14 Dec
Page Park Market - 14 Dec
Windmill Hill - 7-8 Dec
Bristol Christmas Market - 1 Nov - 23 Dec
St Nicks Market - Every day including Sundays throughout Dec
Tobacco Factory - 10-2:30 every sunday
You can also check out the events page to which events to find my stall this year, so why not drop by and say hi!
Shopping with Just Plain Charming
Shopping around can be stressful and so this year why not check out the wide variety of wares here at Just Plain Charming. So whether you need a stocking filler or a statement piece for a loved one, I have compiled a short Christmas gift guide to cover all your shopping needs.
Also if you haven’t used Just Plain Charming before you can grab 10% off when subscribing to the newsletter.
Gifts for the Special Someone
Personalised Silver Jewellery: A custom one of a kind piece of silver jewellery can be a wonderful gift. Consider a delicate silver necklace with a personalised charm, a pair of bold and bright earrings with their favourite stone, or a stunning silver bangle with stamping or engraving. You can have the option to have your item hallmarked too.
Festive Gifts
Snowflake studs: You can’t go wrong with a pair of studs. Perfect to wear throughout the festive season
Ceramic Ornament: Dated on the back for the year gifted, this would make a great festive addition to a stocking or for a loved one
Gifts for Mums/Grans
Simple Silver Jewellery - Simple and stylish jewellery that can be worn every day and can be styled to their taste, such as delicate pendant necklace or a bangle.
Functional Ceramic Homeware: Ceramic homeware items like mugs, reed diffusers, vases can be both practical and stylish gifting options.
Gift Ideas for Book Lovers
Silver Bookmark/Pendant: Consider a bookmark adorned with their favourite gemstone or their initial. You could even choose a delicate book pendant that can be worn every day.
Cosy Ceramics: Go for a mug for their favourite hot drink or a tealight that can set the scene for their cosy read
Gifts for the hard to shop for
EGiftCard: It can be hard to choose for individuals with particular taste so why not give them a gift of choice with an electronic gift card which can be used either on a premade item or a commission piece
Gifts for Men
Cufflinks or Copper: A jewellery based website may not be the natural place to shop when looking at gifts for men but there are a number of items you can consider such as a pair of custom cufflinks or why not consider a copper gift for a more rustic look
Gift Ideas for Different Price Ranges
Under £15: Ceramic ornaments, tealights, trinket dishes, simple silver chains
£15-£30: Simple silver rings, studs or necklaces. Ceramic mugs, or small homeware like bud vases, pots or reed diffusers
£30-£50: Gemstone adorned pendants or silver Bookmarks
£50-£100: Personalised silver jewellery, bold and bright gemstone earrings
Tips for Gifting Silver and Ceramic
Consider the Recipient's Style: When choosing a gift, consider the recipient's style and preferences. A minimalist silver necklace might be perfect for someone with a simple style, while a bold ceramic vase might be ideal for someone who loves bold colours and patterns.
Presentation is Key: A beautifully wrapped gift can make a big difference. Use beautiful wrapping paper and add a personal touch with a handwritten card. Be sure to use eco-friendly wrapping materials like recycled paper or fabric!
Personalisation: Consider adding a personalised touch, choose either birthstones for jewellery or consider engraving on silver a name, initials, or a special date. With ceramics you could get choose their favourite colours
Set the Scene: Pair your items with other complementary gifts, for example a ceramic mug could come with some gourmet hot chocolate or a cosy blanket.
Unique and Handcrafted: Highlight the unique, handcrafted nature of your ceramics.
Hopefully you find some value in this guide over the festive period and I hope that in your quest you can find the perfect gift for everyone on your list this Christmas.
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