9 Small businesses to support and what to buy

Small businesses are under threat thanks to skyrocketing retail leases, competition from larger chains, and struggles securing funding or managing cash flow as a result of Covid-19 – why we need to support them more than ever.

Dayna Winter, editor at Shopify, writes: “Beyond their size, small businesses are defined by their spirit. And at the helm are their intrepid founders—scrappy, ambitious, and resilient. They invent and build things despite uncertainty, because it’s what drives them. Their risks lead to innovation that moves the world forward. And we need them.”

From buying gift cards to ordering online, here are some small businesses to support and what to buy…

GIFT EXPERIENCES

The Indytute is home to unusual gift experiences in London – inspiring lessons, workshops and experiences that make brilliant days out and unusual gifts for any occasion. Don’t let the restrictions imposed by Covid-19 stop you from making special memories. Purchase a gift card for another time, such as a Pottery workshop for two. Better still, order the ‘At Home Clay Club ‘ – a pottery studio delivered to your home. You’ll receive 3kg of air dry clay, a video tutorial and all the kit to start your clay adventure. All kit orders come with £5 to spend towards a real Indytute experience.

JEWELLERY

Support independent jewellery designers such as Carrie Elizabeth (left). Her pieces, crafted in 14k gold vermeil and gold plated brass, are set with diamonds and semi precious stones for a beautiful and timeless finish. Her pieces are all ethically sourced and handmade in Jaipur India from the finest quality stones. We recommend the 14k Gold Vermeil Faceted Opal Ring.

Wanderlust Life (right) jewellery pieces are hand-made in the UK by an all-female team and reflect the rich, vibrant palette of the Earth’s life, lands and oceans. The collection features a spectrum of semi-precious gemstones delicately merged with 14k gold fill and plated metals; and their signature fine cord. We recommend the luxe gold amulet birthstone necklace and bracelets.

BEAUTY

By Sarah London (right) started out as an experiment to help a sister’s recovery from leukaemia and is now a multi award-winning skincare brand. With absolutely no hidden, artificial or synthetic chemicals, their products use only the highest-quality, cold-pressed oils. We recommend the Organic Facial Oil.

Lani (left) has gained a cult status among the vegan community as a brand that speaks passionately against animal cruelty and promotes cruelty-free living and natural and healthy lifestyle choices. We recommend the Juice Cleanse Facial.

FOOD

There’s never been a better excuse to order a takeaway! BAO has launched a delivery service called Rice Error. Specialising in takeaway rice boxes using Taiwan’s award winning Chi Shang Rice, DIY BAO Meals, Fried Chicken and all your BAO favourite flavours. Try the DIY Fried Chicken BAO.

Family-run Hoppers, also available for delivery, celebrates home-style Sri Lankan cooking with a menu of sumptuous and headily aromatic dishes. Try the Devilled Chicken wings.

LOUNGEWEAR

Online retailer Notonthehighstreet is home to some independent brands such as Bettie Bramble (left). As well as personalised cotton baby blankets and hooded towels, they also produce some super soft, premium quality statement loungewear such as this Gym And Tonic Ladies Sweatshirt. Know any mum’s to be? Check out the MAMA sweatshirt range.

Batch1 (right) is another great find on Notonthehighstreet for statement t’s. The independent London-based brand creates on-trend, ethically made, feel-good fashion for all occasions. We like this ‘I’m Over It’ Women’s Slogan Sweatshirt.

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