16 minute read
The Alternative Gift Guide To Christmas
You wouldn’t find these gifts in a stocking – but they’re sure to brighten up Christmas day. Ethical, fun and brimming with Yuletide spirit, here’s Hanna Prince’s pick of the best alternative presents
Finding the perfect item for everybody on your gift list can turn the run-up to Christmas into a festive stress-fest. Don’t panic – we’ve got the answer. From delectable handmade goodies to gifts that help someone in need, these alternative presents will put a smile on everyone’s face this Christmas.
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SPONSOR AN ANIMAL Adoption gift packs make great gifts for animal lovers. From exotic sloth bears and slow lorises to rescued donkeys, horses and dogs, you can ‘adopt’ almost any type of animal. Adoption packs often contain certificates, calendars, information books and newsletters, along with kid-friendly pressies such as colouring pencils and soft toys. The best bit, of course, is that your money will go towards helping animal and wildlifecentric charities, whether that’s buying food and medicine for rescue cases or preserving threatened wildlife habitats.
GIVE THE GIFT OF TIME If you’re keen to help somebody who really needs it this Christmas, you can make a huge difference by volunteering in the local community. Whether it’s serving at a Christmas lunch for older people who would otherwise spend the
festive season alone, working with a homeless charity, visiting someone in hospital or helping out at a food bank, there’s no better way to channel the real Christmas spirit. If you’re short on time but still keen to help, consider funding a festive dinner for somebody who can’t afford one, donating a gift to a child in need or putting together a
Christmas shoebox for a refugee. PROMISE VOUCHERS For kids with limited pocket money funds, promise vouchers make perfect gifts. Cooking up breakfast in bed, tidying the house, hoovering, helping out in the garden, cleaning the car or serving at a grown-up dinner party – there are plenty of low-cost ways to give parents, grandparents or other family members a festive treat. Making your own creative vouchers is all part of the fun. HOMEMADE GEMS You don’t have to be a crafting genius to whip up your own delectable homemade gifts. Handy in the kitchen? Mix up a batch of infused olive oils, marmalade, cookies or scrumptious chocolates (it’s not as hard as you might think!). Better still, combine them in a hamper for the ultimate festive snack box. Beauty products such as lip balm, bath bombs and body scrub are also fun and reasonably easy to make at home.
CHARITY SHOP TREASURES Gone are the days when Christmas gifts had to be box-fresh and swathed
in plastic packaging. A combination of financial and environmental restraints has encouraged a growing culture of second-hand present buying – last year, a survey by a mobile phone recycling company revealed that half of us gave pre-owned gifts to family and friends. Buying presents from charity shops is better for the environment and easier on your wallet – plus all the proceeds go to a good cause. GREEN GIFTS Looking for a Christmas present that doesn’t cost the Earth? There are plenty of eco gifts out there, but few have a net positive impact on the environment. If you’re keen for your money to have a genuine green influence then consider sustainably sourced wildlife seeds, bumblebee and bug homes made from recycled timber, or a tree dedication. Some charities also sell jewellery crafted from salvaged ocean plastic – possibly the prettiest way to save the world. GIVE FROM A ‘NEED’ LIST Finally, try asking your friends and family what would genuinely make their lives better this Christmas. Perhaps it’s a few hours of babysitting so that they can enjoy a little ‘me’ time. Maybe it’s a night out with a shoulder to cry on, a train ticket so that they can spend the festive season with family, or a cleaner to give their house a complete overhaul in the run-up to Christmas dinner. Sometimes it’s the things you’d never find in a letter to Santa that really make Christmas special. l
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CHRISTMAS QUIZ Santa’s Shopping Spree Children’s trail helping Santa find presents in the museum COMPLETED: Bexhill 1940 Winter Wartime Model Railway With Eddie Izzard’s finishing touches
SPECIAL EXHIBITION: Common Threads Folk Costume & National Dress from around the World
SPECIAL EXHIBITION: Augusta Victoria College Bexhill’s School for Nazi Girls
Egerton Road, Bexhill TN39 3HL Tel: 01424 222058
Open 11:00am to 4:00pm Tuesday to Sunday (Closed on Mondays) Museum closed 20-25 Dec. Open Boxing Day until 3 Jan, 11:00am to 4:00pm
www.bexhillmuseum.org.uk BexhillMuseum @bexhillmuseum info@bexhillmuseum.org.uk Bexhill Museum is an accredited museum and a registered charity no 1102638
A NEW KIND OF LUXURY
Goldsmiths has unveiled its brand- new showroom design in Churchill Square, Brighton
After months of anticipation, the hoardings are finally down, to reveal the smart monochrome exterior of the new Goldsmiths showroom, at Churchill Square. The showroom reveals a whole new luxury shopping experience – from its dynamic new design, through to the service, hospitality, and the exceptional new line up of luxury timepieces and finejewellery brands it offers.
Goldsmiths has created a luxury retail environment for the future – one that embraces a modern and relaxed way to browse. It perfectly combines the best names in Swiss watchmaking alongside world-renowned jewellery brands, expert service, and a bright, modern luxury showroom interior. With it’s white-washed oak timber, which is contrasted with white terrazzo and blackened steel to create a light, uncluttered space that feels luxurious but not intimidating; a place where you can spend time deciding on that perfect timepiece or ideal engagement ring, while enjoying the showroom’s hospitality.
The beautiful showroom houses a gorgeous collection of leading Swiss timepiece brands, including exclusive timepieces from a number of world-famous brands. You’ll have the chance to try on, or even buy such amazing models as the OMEGA De Ville Prestige Co-Axial 32.7mm, that exudes elegance, with it’s impressive two-tone, mother-of pearl dial with gold fashioned Roman numerals – or the iconic Breitling Chronomat 42mm, in red gold with an anthracite dial, and perfectly matched to a black rubber strap.
It’s not just the stunning watch collection that will draw the crowds, with their gorgeous collection of diamond jewellery, Brightest Diamonds, which is exclusive to Goldsmiths and features its very own proprietary stone cut. This Goldsmiths’ stone has 88 facets – 30 more than a standard stone, which it has used in three wonderfully romantic engagement ring collections as well as eternity rings, earrings, and necklaces. Thanks to the additional facets, cut into an innovative pattern unique to Goldsmiths, brilliance, fire, and scintillation are all amped up in these stones, which means they have superior sparkle; and each piece comes with its own certificate.
The new opening is a great addition to Churchill Square, and perfectly timed for those looking for a special Christmas gift for loved ones, or a treat for themselves! The showroom features dedicated areas for brands such as Breitling and Tudor, as well as gorgeous jewellery from the likes of FOPE and Roberto Coin. All carefully curated, and creatively displayed, to maximise temptation.
“This is a significant milestone for Goldsmiths,” says Craig Bolton, executive director of the Watches of Switzerland Group. “Luxury today has become far more relaxed, inclusive, and experiential, so while we are elevating the Goldsmiths brand position, our goal is to make everyone feel valued and at home when visiting our showrooms. Our ambition is for everyone to have a memorable luxury experience long after they’ve made their purchase. We believe the repositioning and new showroom concept will transform not just the Goldsmiths profile and experience, but also bring some fresh life to our high streets.” l
Goldsmiths
Upper Mall, Churchill Square, Brighton 01273 738080 goldsmiths.co.uk
David Carpenter Watches
★ Perfect for any watch enthusiast! A range of the most affordable & stylish Swiss and British watch brands. Pictured: Hamilton Intramatic auto (£865) and Duckworth Prestex chronograph (£495).
16 High Street, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1UX Tel: 01892 481060 sales@david-carpenter.co.uk www.davidcarpenterwatches.com
This year, more than ever, our local high streets need your support, so get inspired with our great gift guide for presents for all the family, friends or even treat yourself this Christmas
Smiffy Bears
★ This is a specialist bear ✶shop, stocking Charlie Bears, Merrythought, Hermann, Clemens, Steiff, DEB Canham, Smiffy Bears and many others. Jackie Smith has been restoring bears for over thirty years, with a bear hospital in the shop. Please call in for a coffee, bear chat or hug!
Cobblestone Walk, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD 07885 075890 Open Tuesday to Saturday 9.30 to 5pm Plants4Presents
★ Choose from over 100 beautiful fruiting, flowering and festive gifts all delivered gift wrapped and boxed with a handwritten card.
01825 721162 www.plants4presents.co.uk
Thomas Smith’s Trug Shop
★ A genuine Sussex Trug is the perfect gift for gardeners, experienced or just starting out. Look at our website for our extensive range of Trugs.
Thomas Smith’s Trug Shop 01323 871640 sales@sussextrugs.com www.sussextrugs.com ★ Enjoy ‘It’s a Dog’s Life’ every month in Sussex Living? Get books, ‘The Last Rolo’ and ‘Sit, Stay, Roll Over,’ by the same writer. They make great presents especially for dog lovers!
www.helenstockton.co.uk
Millbrook Garden Centre
★ Treat a gardener to a gift featuring Hannah of Wrendale Designs' stunning artwork, stocked at Millbrook!
Find tools, herb pots, kneelers, beauty accessories, stationery and more!
Millbrook Garden Centre, Tubwell Lane, Crowborough, TN6 3RJ 01892 663822 www.millbrookgc.co.uk
Rushfields Plant Centre
★ Christmas just won’t be the same without the right decorations. Whether you are decking out your home or your roof or front yard, you need the right decorations.
Henfield Road, Poynings, Sussex, BN45 7AY 01273 857445 adrian@rushfields.com
Shankland & Stow
★ Shankland & Stow create bespoke, handmade, faux floral wreaths for any occasion or event along with a collection of individually crafted stunning ‘Decomesh’ wreaths to add to your Christmas decor inside or out! Sustainable as they’re re-useable!
Visit etsy.com/uk/shop/shanklandandstow Follow on Instagram @shanklandandstow to be inspired!
Forest Rose Flowers
★ It’s All About The Wreaths! Wreath making kits to create at home, pre-done bases and you can choose your decoration from the shop to finish yourself or handmade bespoke wreaths for collection. ★ Visit for an extensive range of handbags, unique costume jewellery, scarves, jumpers, and a beautiful range of Italian clothes.
Something Else, 4 Middle Row, East Grinstead RH19 3AX 07913 911030
Woods Travel
★ Treat your loved one to a new adventure this Christmas with a gift voucher. Available in any denomination, vouchers can be redeemed against anything booked with the Woods Travel Group.
Park Road, Bognor Regis, West Sussex PO21 2PX Tel: 01243 868080 www.woodstravel.co.uk
The Tasting Rooms
★ Our luxury wine hampers make the perfect gift. This Prima Mano hamper includes charcoal cheddar cheese, Briscoe's artisan chilli jelly, and our Sussexmade chocolate truffle selection box.
14 High St, East Grinstead RH19 3AW www.thetastingroomseg.co.uk Enhance Aesthetics & Beauty
★ Stuck for gift ideas? Pop in, we can help. Gift vouchers for treatments and packages. ESPA luxury gift sets. Book in for couples or group treatments.
Enhance Aesthetics & Beauty 1 Whitehall Parade, London Rd, East Grinstead RH19 1AP 01342 301544 www.enhanceyou.co.uk ✶
Shuna’s Vintage Clothes
★ Want to find something special for Christmas? Look no further than Shuna’s Vintage Clothes. Shuna is an ex costume designer and sells beautiful vintage clothes, hats and bags at Heathfield market on Tuesday mornings or by appointment.
01435 883 436 or 07831 258582 Heathfield Market, Burwash Rd, Heathfield TN21 8RA
The Butterfly Gardens
★ Book online via our website to visit or view our enchanting extensive range of butterfly gifts, which make ideal Christmas gifts.
www.sussexbutterflygardens.co.uk The Butterfly Gardens, Middleton Common Farm, Ditchling Common BN6 8SF 01273 054996 Facebook: @middletonButterflyGardens
Carr Taylor Vineyard
★ Carr Taylor Vineyard are celebrating 50 years this year, so why not celebrate Christmas with our East Sussex sparkling wines? Makes a lovely gift for friends and families.
www.carr-taylor.co.uk 01424 752501 ✶
★ Our sawmill is open 7 days a week from 1st December, 9am4pm, for the sale of Christmas trees, logs, oak and softwood beams, planks, fencing stakes, woodchips and other woodland products.
Haywards Heath Road, Balcombe, West Sussex RH17 6NJ sawmill@balcombeestate.co.uk Sawmill 01444 811446 www.balcombesawmill.co.uk
Broadleys
★ Make Christmas feel special with a Secrid wallet. Made in the Netherlands with the utmost care for the environment and people. Available in a wide range of styles.
Find out more: www.broadleys.co.uk Visit us in store: 34-40 High Street, East Grinstead, RH19 3AT
Heyland & Whittle
★ Our new retro-style Eco Gift Boxes contain two of our fragrant eco palm-free soaps and a hand-rolled bath melt - gentle on the skin and good for the planet.
www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk Wessex Distillery
★ Distilling as a family since 2012. Wessex is your local award-winning craft gin inspired by the British countryside using all natural ingredients. Get a FREE gin glass with any bottle to create the ultimate Wessex Gin gift this Christmas. Personalise your bottle for an extra surprise, using the discount code GLASS21
www.wessexdistillery.com 01428 684545 @wessexgin Unit 1, Towergate Business Park, Combe Lane, Wormley, Surrey, GU8 5SY
The Bluebell Railway
★ The Bluebell Railway wishes all our visitors a very merry Christmas! See you in 2022 for an exciting and busy year full of events, entertainment, fine dining, and fun!
www.bluebell-railway.com
The Flower Shop, Uckfield
★ Orders for Christmas wreaths and table decorations now being taken, floral arrangements and planted baskets also available. Plus a range of Christmas gifts and decorations in store. Kell & Collins
★ The interiors and lifestyle store offers a fabulous range of vintage and contemporary homewares, soft furnishings, candles, Christmas decorations, chocolate, and jewellery, with Alex Monroe’s much-loved British-made brand, including his iconic bee design, taking centre stage. Find the perfect gift for you or someone you love.
Kilnwood Studio Pottery Painting
★ Books, Games & Toys – visit us in store where our specialist staff will be able to help you find the perfect Christmas gift or online at:
www.bags-of-books.co.uk 1 South Street, Lewes, BN7 2BT 01273 479320
★ Situated in the heart of Uckfield, a great day out and a fun creative time for all the family. A perfect opportunity to make unique Christmas gifts that will be treasured and adored by all.
01825 749627 Book online at www.kilnwoodstudio.co.uk ✶ ✶
Aurelie & Rose
★ Shop for beautiful vintage inspired gifts, homeware, clothing and cards at our shop in Eastbourne or via our website. A huge range of different present ideas!
Units 65-66 Enterprise Shopping Centre, Station Parade, Eastbourne BN21 1BD 01323 640013 www.aurelieandrose.co.uk Follow us on Facebook: @aurelieandrosevintage Follow us on Instagram/Twitter: @aurelieandrose Derek Martin Photography and Art
★ Commissioned painted portraits by artist and photographer, of animals and people from your reference photos or mine. Taking bookings now for Christmas. Vouchers available.
Facebook: Derek Martin Photography and Art www.derekmartinphotographyandart.co.uk 07547 673207
Muffins Café & Boutique
★ Muffins in East Hoathly provides a unique mix of splendid food and drink and a fabulous boutique shopping experience. Enjoy browsing an eclectic mix of fashion, jewellery, gorgeous gifts and home accessories.
27 South Street, East Hoathly BN8 6DS 01825 840087 www.muffinscafe.co.uk Find us on Facebook: @Muffins-Coffee-Shop-and-Boutique
SmellySaurus ✶
★ SmellySaurus create unique and luxury wax melts that promote well-being and give people a moment of calm and happiness. Handmade in East Sussex for the perfect gift.
Facebook: @smellysaurus Instagram: @smellysaurus Twitter: @smellysaurus sales@smellysaurus.co.uk Sarah Lacey Dry Cleaning
★ At Sarah Lacey Dry Cleaning we have a range of beautiful Gisela Graham Christmas decorations and gifts to choose from.
1 College Road, Haywards Heath West Sussex RH16 1QN 01444 416644 www.sarahlacey-drycleaning.co.uk ✶
M2B in Heathfield
★ So many pretty little things that make perfect Christmas gifts for family, friends and you will probably want to treat yourself too!
Heathfield High Street Find us on Facebook: @M2BHeathfield www.M2BHeathfield.co.uk
