Christmas 2020 is going to be one that we will all remember. It's going to be a surreal time for us all. The events of 2020 have had devastating effects on local economies and smaller businesses who were unable to trade at the start of the year. Even now, as 2020 draws to a close, things are still up in the air. One thing you can do, is shop small this Christmas! Rather than buying your gifts from major retailers, do your research and find some smaller businesses that your loved ones would appreciate, and buy their gifts from there!
We are going to be running a mini series throughout November, showcasing some amazing small businesses that we love. As well as this, we will be running a series on our Instagram throughout the whole of December; "24 Days of Indy" where we will be featuring a small beauty business that we love everyday, right up until Christmas!
The small businesses you see on our gift guide series, are not explicit to beauty brands! Be sure to show all the brands that we feature some love, even if it's just following them on instagram, leaving a comment or recommending them to a friend. All small businesses need our love and recognition in these trying times. We will be sharing the stories behind the brands, because that's what makes small businesses so special; the founders! These super inspiring founders will show you the passion that's behind the products you buy.
Naomi Draws Things
Naomi is the artist behind Naomi Draws Thing, who is so incredibly talented at the pieces that she creates! We particularly love her pet portraits, which would make a perfect gift for any animal lover!
I’m Naomi and I run an art page and Etsy shop called Naomi draws things. Originally this began as a hobby to pass the time in lockdown and has become a real passion project. I create custom illustrations using Photoshop, which can include anything from pet pics to family portraits.
More recently, I’ve also branched out into selling art prints. I love creating funky pieces inspired by some of my favourite films and fashion. One of my most popular prints is of the iconic Bridget Jones, which makes a great understated piece of Christmas decor.
For custom illustrations, head over to Naomi's instagram and drop her a message. Otherwise, you can check out her Etsy and Facebook page.
Naomi has been kind enough to set up a discount code, for any of you after some fabulous prints this Christmas on her Etsy store.
INDY BOX
This will get you 15% off from the 15th November, until the 15th December for all UK residents.
Bad Hair Clay
Bad Hair Clay produce one-of-a-kind handmade hair accessories, using premium Polymer clay. The bright and vibrant designs are so unique, they would make a perfect gift for anyone who loves their hair accessories.
I'm Lauren and I set up Bad Hair Clay after graduating in the middle of a pandemic. With a degree in Make-up, I felt a bit lost with my career goals due to the restrictions and guidelines, so I decided to start creating a product that would allow me to have a creative outlet whilst making a little extra money. As someone who struggles to style my hair, I want to create a simple, yet fun accessory to make styling your hair much easier.
Check out Lauren's Instagram and Etsy store. Keep up to date with her socials, for when she will be launching her Christmas collection.
BA Designs By Beth
BA designs specialises in home, living and lifestyle products. All of our products are handmade/ designer, from the earring to the fabric patterns. There are many super cute earrings, weekly planners, scrunchies and headbands.
My name is Beth Agar and I am a surface pattern designer from Liverpool. I am passionate about all things bold, and unique which is why I set up my business, I want to create designs that make people feel special and one of a kind. Which is what I love most about having a small business, knowing that my customers have a product which I have put love, care and passion into creating. I believe that during this pandemic it is even more important that we support each other and in particular small businesses.
Beth has an amazing sale running throughout December (from 1st November until the 30th December), if you use the code:
CHRISTMAS25
for 25% off everything on her Etsy store.
Find Beth's Instagram and Etsy store, where she will be launching her Christmas products, very soon. This includes festive cards and ornaments.
Pomshell
Pomshell create some of the most fun accessories we have ever seen! Their best sellers, their pom pom earrings, are full of amazing colour combinations and designs, for your bright accessory fans!
I'm Alex, I make fun colourful custom earrings and scrunchies. I’ve been selling earrings for about 6 years now which started with my Nan giving me bags and bags of left over wool she had from her own knitting projects and from there it’s grown. I’ve recently started making scunchies, these are made from either organza or off cuts I get from my local dress maker stopping them going to land fill so they’re good for the environment. As well as this I also do helpful little posts so other small businesses can try keep on top of algorithms and get the most out of Instagram by increasing engagement.
I absolutely love my brand and love seeing my customers in my makes, I also love the little community you have with having your small business and meeting so many other talented people making and selling their own creations.
Alex is launching her Christmas collection next month, which will include pop poms and scrunchies. Keep in touch with Pomshell through Instagram for updates on the launch and you can purchase her prodcuts through her website.