As many local businesses were forced to shut earlier this year due to COVID-19, it may have had a harsh impact on their livelihood. When it comes to Christmas shopping, we jump to think of the big retailers and where we can shop online, however since Christmas is about spreading joy, why not shop for your gifts locally this year? We have collated a list of local, quirky, gift ideas that will not only put a smile on your family members face, but a small business owners too.
Local NI Christmas Gift Ideas
Sweet treats
Indie Fude
What is a better Christmas gift than the gift of food? From cheese to fudge, Indie Fude offer a range of gifts for a loved one or perhaps yourself, and what’s even better is it’s all locally sourced from across Ireland. Their helpful team will be more than willing to sort you out with a Christmas gift to suit anyone.
Established Coffee
Do you know a coffee connoisseur in your family or friend group? Make their Christmas by investing in some tasty, grounded coffee or perhaps an AeroPress to test their brewing skills! Established Coffee have a range of bags of coffee and brewing equipment to choose from so make sure to check them out.
Candles
Bearded Candle makers
The refreshing thing about small local businesses is that there is always a sentimental story behind their business! And that’s exactly what The Bearded Candle Makers offer - a range of candles with scents based on local stories and memories from the Mourne Mountains to a Turf Fire.
Olivia’s Haven
Olivia’s Haven is also a sentimental business which sells Soy candles, Reed diffusers and Wax melts inspired by her childhood memories. Olivia has also recently launched some Christmas gift sets so it’s the perfect chance to get your hands on them!
The Gift From Home
We are Born and Bred
It doesn’t get more local than We are Born and Bred, where you can find gifts such as unique NI mugs with memorable slogans to tasty coffee, and they even feature paintings from a range of artists from Belfast, which would make a great gift for someone who isn't able to make it home this Christmas.
Flowers
Flowers are also a lovely gesture to give this Christmas which can even add a festive touch to someone’s home. Memento deliver across Greater Belfast and surrounding areas and have a beautiful selection of flowers which can be chosen by you or the experts. Floralicious Designs also have plenty of amazing arrangements to gift and even design wreaths for front doors which will even make you want to treat yourself!
Clothing
Ted & Stitch
Ted & Stitch are an amazingly quirky embroidery company that sell a range of clothing from T-Shirts to Sweatshirts for Adults and Kids, that you can guarantee you won’t find on the high street! They even offer a personalised service if you want to make your gift extra sentimental.
Ceramics
Rachel Leary ceramics
When we receive gifts, we’re always reminded that it’s the thought that counts but have you ever considered the hard work that goes into it? Rachel Leary has an amazing collection of ceramics which are inspired by nature and handmade by her very self. You can shop her range on Etsy.
Gifts for the guys
Urban Tonic
Adam and Conal’s journey with their brand Urban Tonic began in 2015 and has taken off ever since. They offer men high quality and effective products from beard oil to soap, because it’s not only girls who like to pamper themselves! This gift would be perfect for your other half or a sibling.
Belfast Beard Company
Another one for the guys, Belfast Beard Company! These guys offer a collection of local beard balms (with some iconic names), oils and much more. They also have gift sets which would make a great present for any of your bearded pals!
Jewellery
Seek and Find
If you’re looking for bespoke jewellery then Seek and Find should be at the top of your list as their range of necklaces, rings and earrings are unique and affordable too! They believe every piece of jewellery should tell a story which makes it even more of a special gift.
Baillie
If you’re struggling to find the perfect small gift for a friend, daughter or niece, check out Baillie handmade, eco-friendly jewellery. You can guarantee you won’t find these anywhere else which makes them even more special!
Are you shopping local this year? Share any local small businesses near you using our hashtag #SmarterLiving on our Facebook and Twitter pages.