Your small business Festive Gift Guide

The festive season is upon us and whether you're an early shopper or a last-minute one, you can be sure to find something truly special when you buy from London's many independent businesses.

This year, we've curated a selection of inspiring small businesses to help you find unique gifts that are set to wow your loved ones this holiday season, from classics such as candles and home decorations to motivational stationery or daring surprises like a terrifying hot sauce.

Explore our Festive Gift Guide to shop local this season:

• Homewares

• Food and drink

• Stationery

• Beauty and wellness

• Fashion and jewellery

Homewares: unique home gifts from local creatives

In this photo: Incense burner from 3rd Diadem (copyright: Jonny Storey/Luma Studio, image courtesy of 3rd Diadem); The By Kala X Blue Floral Lampshade (30cm) (copyright: Naila Ahmad, image courtesy of By Kala X); Tropical terrarium by Leafage (copyright: Leafage, image courtesy of Leafage).

By Kala X

Bring a little colour to your home with these African print lampshades. You can choose from vibrant pink, yellow or turquoise designs to something more neutral.

All items are handmade by Kala, a proud Londoner with Nigerian heritage, bringing you bespoke decor to fill your home with warmth and positivity.  

Shades of Blackness

Get cosy this winter with the perfect home fragrance and sustainable candles – or gift them to someone in need of a selfcare day as the weather turns cold.

Nicole, the brains and heart behind the business, is passionate about finding joy in your home and creating moments of beauty every day.

3rd Diadem

Made in east London, these contemporary pieces are the perfect gift for anyone with a love of Japanese design and a minimalist yet meticulously crafted aesthetic.

3rd Diadem uses a strong paper composite to create beautiful objects, such as incense burners, coasters or hair combs for the home that are both durable and lightweight. 

Leafage

For the plant lovers looking to connect with nature at home, these terrarium kits are a great way to build and nourish something special through the colder months of winter.

They also make for a great holiday gift that can be built solo or shared with your partner, family or friends.

Zena and Rose

For your crafty loved ones that are obsessed with original prints, these gifts are handmade in Chiswick and come in an array of patterns that fit into any home with a quirky personality.

From beautiful statement cushions to tea towels that bring a little spark to your kitchen. Or why not gift some creativity? Zena and Rose host workshops throughout the year and these make for a great gift, too!

Solo Craft Fair  

Nothing beats a festive market and getting to see the work of local craft makers while taking in the smells of pine tree and cinnamon all around you.

Visit the Solo Craft Fair in Brixton, Elephant & Castle or Leadenhall, or join one of the local markets it's hosting throughout the festive period.

Chic Boutique by Clarissa

If you’re hosting a celebration this holiday season, you need these unique charcuterie boards to set the scene for any fabulous tablescape.

Each piece is handcrafted and made with sustainable wood and makes for an original gift that is both practical and beautiful.

Food and drink: delicious treats from London's small businesses

In this photo: Jam Sessions’ raspberry jam (copyright: Jam Sessions, image courtesy of Jam Sessions); Apple terror sauce by Two Dogs LDN (copyright: Two Dogs LDN, image courtesy of Two Dogs LDN); Medina Mint Tea by Nauteas (copyright: Eris Huang, image courtesy of Nauteas).

Nauteas

As the months get cold, there's nothing like curling up with a blanket and sipping a hot cup of tea. But why not change things up and bring in new flavours?

With Nauteas, you're in for a journey through flavour and depth of notes if you try its creative tea range. Or, if you know your tea habits and prefer a traditional cuppa, you can still savour the care in every tea bag of classic blend.

Jam Sessions

Raspberry or apricot? Perhaps some marmalade? Well, you can find all your favourite jams at Jam Sessions. They're handmade in Camberwell and packed in these sleek jars with no nasties.

Sahara

For the cocktail lovers and spirit drink connoisseurs, this revival of Mahia – a traditional alcoholic drink from Morocco's Jewish community – is made from figs and aniseed and set to introduce your dinner party guests to a new world of flavour. It's the perfect addition to an at-home cocktail bar.

Two Dogs

For a new take on holiday food, why not try these American delicacies (with a British soul)?

Cosy up with a plate of chicken wings, burgers or even pizza and dip them in the Two Dogs apple terror sauce, a barbeque base with smoky notes that burn slowly and a sweet kick of apple too. Only try it if you dare!

Mixala

For many Londoners, Chai is a comforting habit and the perfect treat to break up the daily routine.

With Mixala's easy Chai blends, you get to enjoy sips rooted in tradition. Plus, this boxset makes the perfect gift for any Londoner obsessed with Chai.

Stationery: creative gifts from independent artisans

In this photo: Embroidery kit by Tired Starling Studio (copyright: Katie Wells/Tired Starling Studio, image courtesy of Tired Starling Studio). Christmas frosted wine glass by Show Up as Her (copyright: Show Up as Her, image courtesy of Show Up as Her).

Show Up as Her

With a new year around the corner, this is the right time to set your intentions and see how far you can go!

Keep the positive vibes with this range of stationery, apparel and accessories. Having the right affirmations on items you use daily can keep you focused and help manifest your new reality in 2026.

Tired Starling Studio

Looking for the perfect greeting card? This range is uniquely designed in small batches, with sustainability and inclusion at the core of everything Katie, the owner, does.

Or, if you're looking for a new winter hobby that's both cosy and cute (and can be practised indoors!), look no further than these embroidery kits with easy-to-use instructions and everything you need to get started.

Beauty and wellness: pampering gifts from local businesses

In this photo: Skin Silk collection by Skiniri (copyright: Emily Jane Morgan, image courtesy of Skiniri); Sacred Radiance body oil by Dibia (copyright: Dibia, image courtesy of Dibia).

Skiniri

Looking after your skin in the winter requires a routine packed with moisturisers, nourishing soaps and body oils to fight the damage from the cold weather outside.

With Skiniri, you get all-natural plant-based skincare that elevates your routine and leaves your skin happy and supple. The silk collection is a favourite for the season and a great gift for a special someone.

Dibia

Ever heard of the winter glow? Well, with a good selfcare ritual and the body oil from Dibia, you are set to glow throughout the season.

Just add it to a warm bath after a long day or use it as your daily moisturiser. Make the body butter part of your evening routine for a luxurious new ritual of pampering and wellness.

Alashiya

Are you looking for a new signature scent that adapts to your skin?

These niche perfumes have their roots in ancient rituals, made with plant-extracts, hand crafted by founder Omar Suleyman and named after goddesses, these roll-on fragrances can help you create divine moments on the go.

Dee Rose

If you have sensitive skin and want an all-natural body care regime that still protects and nourishes your skin, then the range created by Dee Rose is perfect to add to your beauty rituals.

This lavender whipped body butter caught our eye as a great way to step into relaxation this winter.

Fashion and jewellery: stylish gifts from small London designers

In this photo: Festive earrings by My Grandma Vintage (copyright: My Grandma Vintage, image courtesy of My Grandma Vintage); "Life Is Matcha More Amazing With You" jumper by Ding Ding Duck (copyright: Ding Ding Duck, image courtesy of Ding Ding Duck); Mustard yarn ball by Woven Beyond (copyright: Woven Beyond, image courtesy of Woven Beyond).

Woven Beyond

It's time to upgrade your knitting hobby with these sustainable yarns – made from wool and other fibres with a traceable supply chain made up of British regenerative farmers.

But if you're looking to up your knitwear game, you can also get a jumper made to your measurements, a very special gift to cherish beyond the festive period.

Ding Ding Duck

This winter, you can lighten up your mood (and that of everyone around you) with the fun designs of these hoodies and t-shirts.

Unfortunately, you might struggle to pick just one! We particularly love this cute matcha-inspired one.

Grandma Vintage

If you're looking for something truly exquisite, these earrings make for a fashion statement that you (or someone you love) can dress up or down.

Crafted from vintage buttons, they're surely set to mark the festive season with originality, especially the ribbon collection.

Previous gift guide

2024 Festive Gift Guide [PDF, 2.5MB].

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