In these current uncertain times that feel reminiscent of the film 24 days later I think I can safely say we are all feeling unsure of whats to come in the near future especially with the economic climate. Unfortunately the reality is that there are some groups of people that are going to feel this strain more than others, the self employed and small businesses amongst them. Unfortunately I am painfully aware of this and the hit business is already taking from running a small business myself and having a husband who is self employed. Of course if your business is in loo roll or hand sanitiser than this is your time to shine! (Is it too soon for jokes about that?!)
Something that we can all do to help in this difficult time is turn our focus towards supporting our local economy, shop local and shop small where possible and while we can. So to do my bit I wanted to shine a spotlight on some wonderful small businesses that I personally adore and want to show some love in this trying time. Plus think of this as a bit of gift inspiration too, whatever is going on in the world your loved ones are still having birthdays and anniversaries and you still deserve a treat or two!
Deborah Panaseer
I have been a long time fan of this ladies work, her illustrations are simply stunning and she is my go to for birthday cards but she also does beautiful prints too.
Atelier Stella ceramics
Atelier Stella is a phenomenal ceramics business local to me, ceramicist Stella creates her beautiful designs by hand in small batches in her Brighton studio. You may recognise these pots either because you have likely seen them in a shop near you or because you have seen one of the many (not so good) copies that are available in the style of Atelier Stella, which in my opinion is even more reason to support this small business.
Jai Bird Press
A one lady show creating beautiful prints, pins and temporary tattoos in her cottage in the depths of the countryside. Jai’s intricate lino prints simply amaze me and several are on my wishlist for hanging in my kitchen.
Jane Kent Studio
Little messages of positivity stitched by free hand embroidery on a sewing machine by creator Jane. These embroidery’s would make perfect gifts and are guaranteed to brighten someone’s day.
Self Care Company
I can say with confidence that Self Care Company make the best candles, they smell phenomenal and even when they are not burning they are making your home smell gorgeous.
Katherine Lees Ceramics
I stumbled across this small business on a trip to Manchester last year and bought several pieces of Katherine’s ceramics as Christmas gifts which i then couldn’t bring myself to part with so gifted them to myself! Katherine is an aware winning ceramicist who screen prints porcelain from which she creates beautiful vessels and jewellery. Her work is totally enchanting.
Wearth London
Finally Wearth London, who I am proud to sell my work through, Wearth is an online marketplace who have created a platform to showcase and support UK brands and makers who work to an eco-friendly ethos. Wearth is a onestop shop for anything from Jewellery to furniture to toiletries and you can shop according to the values that are important to you whether that be vegan products or zero waste and so on.
I hope this small (but perfectly formed) collection of small businesses has given you some inspiration. I would love to know, what small businesses do you adore? I am always on the look out for new inspiration so share them in the comments so i can check them out!
