Great local gifts for Christmas

Christmas will certainly have its challenges this year as we come to terms with COVID-19 regulations that will mean many families cannot meet up in the same way. Most of us are, however, headed for the festive season with a determination that it will still be fun, and that we will still do our very best to come up with original presents for those we love. It’ s all too easy to succumb to Amazon when it comes to easy sourcing and value. Many of us are, however, conscious of the need to ‘ shop local’ wherever we can and to support our own local economies and jobs. We took a look around at what’ s on offer in our own patch and have been very impressed not just by the originality and value but by the fact that in many cases you can buy online.

Kookoo but kind

Christmas shopping always gives you a warm glow but buying the perfect gift that helps the planet –now that’ s a really great feeling! The recycled children ’ s casual wear from ‘Kookoo but kind’ is not only beautiful, but speaks a positive message. The production process is environmentally friendly from start to finish. Every purchase contributes to the planting of trees, and the recycled packaging even includes tissue paper that doubles as colouring sheets!

The collection features personalised and upcycled denim jackets, slogan t-shirts, hoodies and jogging bottoms. All use fun and playful designs to encourage an awareness of endangered animals, cultural diversity, healthy lifestyles and being kind. The brand is the brainchild of West London mumof-three, Anjelic Kumedzina, who says: “Our products are made to last and aimed at children who want to make their voices heard. The price point reflects the quality of our fabrics and the fact that our supply chain is almost exclusively eco friendly and predominantly British-based. I think our bestseller this Christmas is going to be either our Save me Hoodies, that are exceptionally warm and versatile, or our denim jackets that make a wonderful and extra special gift. ”

Lots of Lovely Art

Get creative this Christmas with two new art boxes from Berkshire-based, Lots of Lovely Art (LoLA). Ideal for stimulating curious minds, they make the perfect thoughtful and unusual gifts – and they fit through the letterbox. All of LoLA’ s packs introduce artists to children through creative projects. The ‘Upcycled Christmas ’ box includes a fun, festive Andy Warhol-style wreath project. The box also includes materials to create a cardboard gingerbread house. The second box, ‘What a Wonderful World’ , celebrates differences and imperfections. It includes a broken-vase project inspired by Kintsugi, the Japanese art of mending damaged pottery.

LoLA’ s boxes are available on a flexible subscription basis or as single-box orders. A completely new set of projects is launched every month, and each box includes all the quality art materials you need. Priced from £27 per box, they come in either age ranges 3+ or 6+.

LoLA was founded by two sisters-in-law, Alara and Selina, who both come from creative backgrounds. Alara says: “We believe that process-based, artist-inspired experiences are an important way for children to develop problem-solving skills, analytical thinking and self-confidence. Our Christmas boxes are a wonderful change from traditional toys and give children an imaginative activity to immerse themselves in over the festive period – with art materials that will last well beyond. ” Use coupon code FAMILIES at checkout to receive 10% off your order before 31 December 2020.

Bambino Bundles

Finding a truly original new baby gift without spending a fortune can be a challenge. Bambino Bundles has the perfect solution – exquisite gift boxes that contain thoughtful presents for newborns, but also for their mothers. Its secret lies in hand-picking useful and beautiful products, many of which are organic or fairtrade, from other small businesses.

It is the brainchild of Wallingford-based, Khi Joyner: “When I had my first baby, I was overwhelmed with the accessories for newborns. I soon discovered there were incredible Etsy shops or local mumpreneurs selling unique, beautiful and practical items. I wanted to share some of my favourites with other new mums who are perhaps feeling a little overwhelmed too. ”

Bambino Bundles start at £25 with gifts for babies including 100% cotton muslins with watercolour prints, babygros handmade in Oxfordshire, and fairtrade knitted toys. Their Mums will be delighted with such treats as handmade soy wax candles, sweet and stylish stationery, award-winning eye masks and personalised bracelets. You can even fill your own custom box, perfectly personalised to the recipient.

Khi adds: “Look out for the Christmas Eve treat boxes for Mums, which I think will be a bestseller. They are packed with goodies like cashmere socks, chocolate, miniature gin and bath bombs. Ideal for all the deserving Mums out there – not just the new ones!”

Bambino Bundles is offering Families readers an exclusive 10 per cent discount off any order – just use discount code of FAMILIES at checkout. bambinobundles.co.uk

Little Cooks Co

Fun and affordable activities to entertain children at home are today ’ s holy grail. Cue Little Cooks Co with its monthly recipe kits, which teach children to enjoy cooking and healthy eating. Delivered by post, subscription boxes come through your letterbox in a neat 100 per cent recyclable box packed with all the natural and organic dry ingredients to cook up a storm.

Boxes also include a small activity or craft for children to enjoy while making their yummy bake such as November ’ s spiced apple flapjacks. Each recipe is fun and easy to make and has been designed by a registered nutritionist, so is free from all refined sugar and packed full of natural ingredients.

Buckinghamshire-based founder, Helen Burgess, says: “My goal is to help families make healthy choices for their children and themselves and remind them that nutritious food is tasty and doesn ’t have to be boring! Most importantly, it is about the time spent with your little cooks (screen free!), creating happy memories in the kitchen that will stay with them for life. ”

The boxes cost £12.99 each (with discounts for longer subscriptions). Every sale pays for a vulnerable school child in the UK to receive a healthy breakfast through a partnership with the charity, Magic Breakfast. littlecooksco.co.uk

The Corner Shop

The Corner Shop Woolhampton at Christmas-time is a real treat – a treasure trove of beautiful decorations and special, on-trend gifts for everyone from babies to grandparents. For those who are cautious about venturing into larger shopping centres right now, the boutique store between Newbury and Reading offers an intimate atmosphere and thoughtful service.

Nina Peddie co-owns The Corner Shop with friend Claire Dibble. She says: “Our customers say they feel inspired when they walk through the doors. It can be so hard to decide on that perfect gift, but we aim to take away the stress and make Christmas shopping an enjoyable and festive experience. We like to think we have something for everyone, and at prices to suit every pocket. ”

This Christmas, Nina is predicting that their cute felt mice decorations will be a big hit. Handmade and hand-painted Hogben pottery – which is highly sought-after – is in stock and would make an ideal gift. “With us all spending more time in our homes, games and crafts are big news at the moment, ” adds Nina. “And not just for children. We have some wonderful 3D jigsaws that adults will love too. ” thecornershopwoolhampton.com

Little Oak Clothing

Christmas Eve boxes have become a treasured tradition for many families – a parcel of cosy treats that brings even more excitement to the festive build-up. Now you can ‘build your own ’ box full of local, quality goodies thanks to Little Oak Clothing in Bucklebury near Reading. The boutique children ’ s shop sells clothing, décor, dressing-up, toys, gifts and more via its online store and at L Interiors in Bucklebury. The Christmas Eve boxes either come pre-packed, or you can choose your own contents from a range that includes books, pyjamas, hot chocolate bombes and decorations. Each option includes a personalised ‘ nice list’ gift certificate.

Owner, Alexandra Meier, says: “There is no time of year I love more than Christmas – there is such a magic in the air! As with all our products, each item is made-to-last and sourced from independent businesses that share my values. This year has been really tough on small companies and I can only thank my customers for their support. Parcelling up beautiful gifts for newborn babies, birthdays, or just to show you ’ re thinking of someone – it reminds me that nothing can stop us celebrating and treasuring the special occasions. ” Families readers can use FAMILY10 at the checkout for 10% off littleoakclothing.co.uk