Christmas has never been so significant as a time to bring people together and celebrate, especially after so much separation from our loved ones. Independent and small businesses have been hit hard throughout uncertain times and the after effects of the COVID-19 lockdown.
In order to support the businesses and communities around us, we as an organisation, have set ourselves the mission to encourage more people to shop locally this festive season. Not only do we want to celebrate the businesses and the products they produce, but also the people themselves and the stories behind them.
So, what’s the plan?
We have handpicked a selection of artisan products from a wide array of independent businesses to create a unique gift guide that will make your Christmas shopping simple and stress free. The Think Big Shop Small campaign aims to showcase the talents of local artists, bakers, designers and creatives whilst also providing a practical way to shop for your loved ones.
The online guide, will provide you with a chance to have a good look at the type of potential gifts on offer and get those Christmas presents sorted early. We’ve separated the guide into different sections to make it even easier when browsing.
You can find our gifts guides for Her, Him, Kids, gifts under £30 and many more linked below. From illustrated house portraits from Sarah Smalldon, gin gift sets from Chameleon Gin, plants from Nook Houseplants to an 8-week Mindful Art wellbeing course, there’s something for everyone.
Amazon is calling to me!
Why shop local when you can just get all you want on Amazon? With many facing closures and unplanned expenditure, shopping from local independent businesses this Christmas has never been so important. Small businesses are so important to our economy and are, arguably, the social infrastructure and heart of our society, and we all have our part to play in their survival. In a year full of lockdowns, tough restrictions and a whole lot of uncertainty, local businesses, and those behind them, have suffered. They have supported us this year by closing their doors to keep us safe, now it’s time to return the favour.
How can I help?
You can do your bit by checking out our gift guide and seeing how much of your Christmas shopping you can do… T’is the season to support local after all!
You can access our gift guides via the links below and we’ll be sharing more information across our social media channels in the lead up to Christmas. You can find us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram and Twitter by searching for ‘Real Ideas Organisation’.
As well as our gift guide, we are also hosting a virtual open studios. Be sure to navigate yourself to our ‘Ocean Studios’ Instagram and Facebook to learn more about the incredible resident makers and creatives and discover how you can get involved!
The Virtual Open Studios will be held on Saturday 28th November from 11pm-3pm. Merry Christmas and happy shopping!
Illustration by Sarah Smalldon