It’s that time of year again and whilst consumerism is increasingly on the rise and materialism is frequently being pushed by huge corporations through the saturation of media, I feel that, as the founder of Sincerely Essie, I have a responsibility to educate and inform my audience about supporting smaller businesses and shopping for an ethical gift this festive season.
Here at Sincerely Essie, we have a commitment to championing women entrepreneurs and ensuring that this little community can come together for the good of our planet. So, this year, we’ve worked closely with a few female-owned businesses again to create this ethical gift guide; products sold not only help to establish the business further, but they also support special initiatives, use sustainable ingredients or back ethical practices making a huge difference with just one purchase!
For Him
Resident Pheasant is a small business which is on a mission to deliver exceptional, ethical chocolate which is encased in fun, contemporary and sustainable packaging. Shop their Jolly Christmas letterbox gift to treat that special someone with 6 deliciously festive chocolate bars. This business prides itself in partnering with Cocoa Horizons Foundation, whose initiatives helps support cocoa farmers’ livelihoods whilst protecting both nature and children alike.
For Her
Engravers Guild is a small family-owned business which traces its heritage back to 1887. Drawing on the experience of over 100 years, it combines technology with the traditional skills of craftsmen to customise a curated selection of beautiful items from a network of boutique manufacturers making it a sustainable option. Personalise one of their designer fragrance bottles for a truly bespoke gift this festive season which will be cherished for years to come.
For Kids
Little Hands Learning was established by a duo of sisters with over 20 years of shared experience in education. Each activity box is created using their knowledge and experience to make learning fun, memorable and easy with the Winter Treasures box being the perfect gift this festive season. The business is also incredibly proud of its eco credentials; all products and packaging can be reused, recycled or are biodegradable for as little impact as possible on the environment.
For the Pooch
Made Happy is a family run business which specialises in using 3D printing for its personalised products. Their Large Brick Letters are created using environmentally sustainable plastic and are perfect to mount above a pooch’s bed. The business is passionate about offering eco friendly alternatives to traditional plastic items, such as initial keyrings and tree decorations, making their products a bright and unusual gift to give this festive season.
For the Feline
CW Photo Art is a small, award winning business ran solely by Charlotte who designs, illustrates and hand makes every item. Inspired by positivity and nature, CW Photo Art intends to make people smile and make the world a brighter place with its creations. This hand painted Personalised Pet Decoration uses locally foraged natural wood slices and recycled twine making it eco friendly, and is already a hit this festive season, so hurry if you want to shop one for your furry feline.
To conclude this gift guide, I hope you consider buying from one of the aforementioned businesses this festive season, because not only will you be supporting a small business but you will also be helping the environment, advocating ethical practices and aiding various initiatives with your purchase.
