Everyone shops differently at Christmas. Some people stock up an entire year before during the Boxing Day sales, others are guilty of rushing around the shopping centre before closing hours on Christmas Eve. However you shop, remember to think independent first. When you shop at independent retailers, in store or online, you’re not just making your gift recipient happy. You’re putting the smile on the face of a small business owner, a family business, a hardworking crafter, a local store and most importantly, you’re helping small businesses to run for another year. 

As an independent business ourselves, based in Milton Keynes, supplying gifts to the whole of the UK through the magic of the internet - we understand first-hand the importance of ‘shopping small’ this Christmas.

Where can I buy from independent businesses this Christmas?

1. Independent marketplaces

There are lots of online marketplaces to get you started if you’re unsure of where to shop. Often you can find small businesses on here you’ve never heard of before, and if you like what they do, you can re-order directly through their own website whenever you’re looking to buy again. Find a great array of personalised gifts such as engraved jewellery, custom paintings and unusual gifts on Not On The High Street, shop on Holly & Co for female-founded gift makers, or if you want a taste of country-living luxury gifts we also suggest the Country Living Marketplace for hand-picked quality gifts. 

2. Local small businesses

Shopping locally is incredibly important, it supports the economy in your area as well as helping to keep local businesses alive. Head to Google and search ‘independent gift shop near me’. It will give you a map pinpointing local gift shops in your area, some you may never have even heard of. 

3. Shop directly with small businesses online

Shopping online is an easier option for a lot of people, and we like to think there’s no harm in a combination of in-person shopping and online shopping at Christmas. To find small gifting retailers online, we recommend using the following searches in Google:

• ‘Independent gifts uk online’

• ‘Independent gifts online’

• ‘Independent gifting brand uk’

Try also searching for these terms on platforms like TikTok, the algorithm is specifically designed to recommend you accounts that are based in your local area, or areas that you visit frequently. This can work with both in-person and online independent gift shops.

4. Attend independently-run Christmas markets

No, we’re not talking about your usual jam-packed, can barely move, overpriced hot chocolate Christmas markets you usually get in big cities across the UK. We’re talking about Christmas markets that solely support independent retailers and makers. These are ticketed events which mean you can freely browse stalls without any chaos or rush, plus there’s usually live entertainment and food and drink to keep you occupied. There’s often a chance to get exclusive deals too. 

Here’s a list of our top independently-run Christmas markets (London and surrounding areas):

• Spirit of Christmas

Held usually on the first week of November every year. This huge indoor Christmas fair in Kensington boasts over 600 independent gifting brands. It’s the perfect place to get your entire Christmas list ticked off in one go.

Find out more here.

• Peterley Manor Farm Christmas Market

Halfway between Buckinghamshire and London, lies this beautiful farm. They hold an annual (usually sell-out) Christmas market for 4 nights every November. There’s over 90 boutique shopping stalls filled with endless Christmas gift ideas.

Find out more here.

• Chelsea Physic Garden Christmas Fair

In the heart of Chelsea and just by the river Thames, you can shop over 100 independent businesses selling all kinds of jewellery, food, drink and homewares. You can get to know brands you’ve never heard of before and talk to small business owners directly, who can recommend their personal favourites from their own range.

Find out more here.

Why is it so important to shop small?

We’re so glad you asked! Here’s some interesting facts that support our ‘shop small’ mission:

• For every £1 spent at a small business, 63p stays in the local economy, compared to a much smaller 40p if you were to shop with a larger business. 

• It’s a personal experience from start to finish. Usually a small business owner is the sole person that processes, picks and packs your order, or even answers your queries about certain products.

• You can find a better selection of gifts. Often it’s overwhelming to find gifts online. There are just so many options out there and the choice can be staggering. A small shop has done the hard work for you by finding a great selection of unique gifts that they know their customers will love. Often a smaller, more curated range is much easier to browse as a customer.

• You’ll be supporting ethical business practices, supporting fair wages and great working conditions. 

Don't forget to shop small this Christmas!

Keep an eye on our blog for more gifting inspiration as we head closer to Christmas. Why not follow us on Instagram to check out our newest arrivals and latest gift guides.