Christmas Gifts: Shop independent this Christmas

Christmas is well and truly coming, and it brings with it the much-loved tradition of giving and receiving gifts.

Here in Sheffield we're blessed with a thriving community of independent traders and strongly advocate for shopping locally as much as possible throughout the year and during the festive season. The businesses featured in this piece all contributed to a Christmas gifts page in the November issue of Now Then, so to thank them for supporting the magazine we're going to show them a bit of extra love.

Those who enjoy a festive tipple should look no further than Turner's Craft Beer Bottle Shop. Stocking a glorious selection of craft beer, lager, cider, fine wine, artisan gin and spirits, this welcoming tap room has everything you need for a jolly good Christmas. Their gift boxes are beautifully presented and are the perfect grab 'n' go gift if you've left things till the last minute. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to browse their finely curated shelves, and if you have any questions or need advice, new owner Alison will be on-hand to help.

If you have little ones to buy for your first port of call should undoubtedly be Small Stuff. Based in Crookes, this award-winning children's shop has a strong focus on ethical and sustainable products. Owner Hellen prides herself on carefully researching the most eco-conscious children's books, clothing, toys, homeware and stationery and has created a truly beautiful space. Exciting new additions to the shop include the Dinkum Dolls, eco-friendly window crayons and the Banwood balance bike.

Meadow Small is a recent and very welcome addition to Crookes. This card and gift shop sells a delightful range of products by talented local makers. You'll find Christmas cards, decorations, mugs, t-shirts, bags, candles, calendars, art prints, cushions, stationery and much more. If you're in need of stocking fillers, then look no further. They're also beginning to run a variety of craft workshops so be sure to keep an eye on their social media for news about those.

[PIC5]

For fans of second-hand, vintage and pre-loved treasures, The Kelham Flea is a must-visit. Housed within a former engineering works on Neepsend Lane, this antiques emporium is home to a wonderful group of traders selling everything from vinyl, clothing and reclaimed furniture to Sheffield-centric artwork, taxidermy and plants. This Aladdin's cave is ideal if you're into collectables, bespoke pieces and industrial salvage. Make plenty of time for browsing and buying, then pop into the Gardeners Rest for a pint.

Bailey of Sheffield's unique and high-quality stainless steel jewellery is made to last more than a lifetime, created by an innovative team who put the wearer at the heart of the design and making process. Their range includes a selection of customisable bracelets, collectable beads and necklaces. These stylish pieces have been designed to adapt and evolve with the wearer's changing style. In addition to their core range, they also offer gift vouchers and the option of creating a fully personalised bracelet.

Always a highlight of the festive calendar, the Kelham Island Museum Victorian Christmas Market takes place this year on Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December. Look forward to browsing more than 100 stalls selling gifts, seasonal goods and stocking fillers, while sipping on mulled wine and gin cocktails and filling up on woodfired pizza, hot roasted chestnuts and a traditional hog roast. As always, there'll be fun for all the family, with fairground rides, musicians, choirs and carollers. Be sure to visit Santa in his workshop, too.

Flick Jackson