Over the last seven years I’ve met some amazing small business owners on my travels and at the numerous networking events I’ve attended. There are so many people offering brilliant products and services, so I thought I’d give some of my favourites a shout out. Whether you’d like something as a last-minute Christmas pressie, or a treat for yourself, there’s sure to be something to suit. Enjoy, and remember to give them a review or a page like here and there as it really helps an independent business out. Please make sure to check with them direct for final order/collection dates for Christmas.
Style it Out
Obviously need to start with the fashion! Get yourself kitted out for Christmas at these independent boutiques.
For Ladies
Preview Boutique – Crane Street, Chichester – Lots of choice from comfy lounge wear to dramatic jackets and shoes.
Rosie Rose – East Street, Chichester – cosy knitwear, luxe joggers and super-soft scarves, plus lots of lovely homeware and gifts too.
Déjà vu – Felpham Village, West Sussex – Established dress agency with pre-owned clothes and accessories means something different and unique with stock that changes regularly. Plus, it’s a sustainable way to shop!
Isabella Josie Millinery – Bognor Regis, West Sussex – Brilliantly talented local milliner, as well as fabulous hats and head pieces, Bella creates headbands and hair wraps for more day-to-day wear.
For the Gents
Stephen Lawrence Menswear – St Martins’ Street, Chichester – Stylish high-end and designer clothing – particularly good for suiting – and accessories, coupled with brilliant, personalised service.
Dartagnan – North Street, Chichester – The latest brands and designers at this on-trend independent boutique, specialising in high-end sports luxe looks.
Hansfords – South Street, Chichester – Long-standing independent menswear shop with great service and some great traditional and more creative pieces.
For everyone
Mama Peach Face Masks – Felpham Village, West Sussex – Providing home-sewn face masks and accessories. These are the best and most comfortable masks to wear and such great quality. Large choice of fabrics means there’s something for everyone.
A little Tipple & Nibble!
It is Christmas after all – here are some of my favourites for food and drink…
Lucy Armstrong Chocolates – East Wittering, Chichester – Amazing homemade chocolates and treats plus an onsite coffee shop
Nosh Snack – On-line and local delivery around Chichester – the healthier option these energy balls don’t miss out on taste and still feel like a sweet treat – if you get in there quick you may still be able to get your hands on some ‘Jingle Balls’!
Ashling Park Vineyard – West Ashling, Chichester – amazing English sparkling (as good as, if not better than, Champagne) and still wines. They are working on a tasting room and cabins to stay which hopefully will open soon.
Bush Vines – Chichester, West Sussex – Independent wine merchant offering wines and fizz that you won’t always find in the supermarket. Chrissy gives great advice on what wines may suit you and coming up with something different. In-person tastings (in normal times!) mean you get to try before you buy.
Square house Coffee – Local coffee roasters with a great choice of blends – really tasty coffee!
Harries Coffee – Good all-round fair-trade coffee delivered to your door, and a subscription service means you never run out – Heather is THE coffee lady!
Look after Yourself
Self-care and little treats are so important – these are my favourite people for something to keep your well-being in check.
Jo Gooding at The Village Retreat, Felpham Village, West Sussex. Jo does the most amazing massage treatments – my favourite is the Lava Shell Warming Massage), she also offers mobile service.
Fabienne, Fabeauty, Chichester – Fabienne is the best for waxing and threading, as well as massage and other beauty treatments. She has a treatment room in Wittering and some mobile treatments.
Amey at Mobile Beauty Treats – Amey is known to me as ‘Amey Nails’ as she is brilliant at, you guessed it – nails! Super neat and creative design ideas too. She offers all beauty treatments as well as nails to you at home.
Danielle at Skinspire Clinic, Bognor Regis – Danielle is a skin care expert, and her facials are brilliant. She has a lot of knowledge if you need help with any problem skin conditions too.
Sara-Jane Candles – Chichester, West Sussex – Gorgeous smelling and safe soy candles and wax melts, all handmade.
I hope you enjoy checking some of these out – it really helps to support these independent small businesses.
And of course, you can always get a friend (or yourself) a Gift Voucher with yours truly this Christmas! Last chance for an e-gift card from me (any amount from £10) is Wednesday 23 December – email – info@vickybooker.com, or call 07973 234764 for info.
Thanks Alison – it does make you think a bit more when buying new things!
Ha ha – yes keep me updated Moira!
I’ve actually steered clear of the sales this year to avoid doing funny things! Armed with your advice I may…
I like the £s per wear idea Vicky and the 3 principles/ questions are very useful!
To fold or roll that is the question! My hubby and I question this every time! Love it!….
Gifting made easy with this brilliant guide – thank you Vicky!
You’re welcome Moira!