Here's something a bit different from us this month.
As a small, independent business in Ripley, we are throwing our support behind our local community at a particularly tough time for retail. We asked our families, friends, candidates, clients and networks to recommend some of their favourite places to 'shop small and shop local' in our little corner of Surrey this Christmas.
Here are some of the local delights we've discovered. We thought you might like them too.
This family-run artisan distillery produces award-winning gin. You can buy full-size bottles of their Sherlock & Sons range from their online shop, plus gorgeous stackable miniatures, gin-scented candles and gin-filled baubles for your Christmas tree! And they're a thirty second walk from our office - dangerous...
Based in St John's Village, Two Ducks is an award-winning independent store offering a carefully curated mix of fashion, accessories, decorative homeware and gifts. We particularly love their bags and scarves, and their range of cute and quirky houseplants.
Thoughtfully designed and carefully made in Britain, Toucan Blue sells kids' clothes that are hard wearing, comfortable and fun. There are dresses, tights, leggings, t-shirts and jumpers in tractor and farmyard prints, and everything is currently reduced so you can snap up some great bargains! The tractor tights are particularly cool, and a steal at £4 a pair.
Haslemere Book Shop, Haslemere
We had to include an independent book shop on our list, and this was a popular choice in our research. With an online shop, gift vouchers, a gift-wrapping service and a (currently virtual) book club, it's easy to see why this is such a loved outlet. There are also super helpful 'staff picks' to help you choose your gifts.
Just a bit further up the High Street from our office is Richardsons Florist, who supply all the bouquets we deliver to our candidates and clients. In addition to being THE place to buy your Christmas flowers and wreaths, they also stock a hand-picked selection of luxury gifts and accessories, from ceramics and metalwork to children's toys and chocolates. (Just a little extra note to say their wreath range this year is GORGEOUS.)
Simon Pure, Guildford and Cranleigh
Their doors may be shut for lockdown, but their workshop is still buzzing! This award-winning independent jewellers has been designing and producing contemporary pieces since 1986, and caters for all budgets. They've just added a handy price range filter for your Christmas shopping too.
Mike is a professional wood turner in Woking, creating both practical and creative pieces from natural wood (including bowl blanks, recycled wood, burrs and locally sourced timber). He has a range of products available to buy online, or you can commission something directly. There are even wooden Christmas decorations for a unique local twist on your tree!
This is a brand-new educational activity box subscription service for young children, launched by a local mum. Each box has eight activities (one each for maths, English, investigation, art and design, physical skills and expression, plus two bonus activities). There's a different theme each month and step-by-step instructions for making the most of your box. This would make a brilliant gift for any pre-schoolers in your life - you can buy a one-off box or subscribe for longer.
This quirky little shop was a recent Muddy Stilettos award winner. They stock a gorgeous range of homeware and home interior products, from pre-loved and re-loved furniture to walls dripping with trinkets and treasures to decorate and brighten up your home. They even run Annie Sloan chalk paint workshops. They call themselves "An intriguing, relaxed and welcoming emporium of loveliness" on their website, and we couldn't agree more!
The Gate is a luxury womenswear boutique in Guildford and has been rapidly establishing a reputation as one of Surrey's most exciting fashion destinations. Every item is individually selected, and their collections all have something special, whether they're from an international brand or a small niche label from a young UK designer. If you're shopping for someone with high-end taste in fashion, this is the store for you.
And last, but not least, is the fabulous Deli Class in Horsell - a firm favourite of Jill and Rebecca's. This friendly Italian deli offers an extensive range of fresh cured meats, cheeses, antipasti and artisan breads as well as other baked treats and pastries. But you might not realise that they also do a range of gorgeous Christmas hampers, available to buy online - and there are lots to choose from, to suit every taste and budget. What better gift for the food and wine lovers in your life?
Not forgetting your friendly local recruitment service...
Whilst you’re busy shopping small and local this year, we'll be here to support your job search or your company's recruitment needs throughout the festive period and beyond. Please give us a call on 01932 355000 or email hello@amber-employment.co.uk to see how we can help you.
Oh, and we'd love to hear if you buy anything from our featured local businesses so please do let us know!