Opt for local this Christmas

Tea Green founder Joanne MacFadyen shares some insight into the best ways to discover and support Dundee’s independent designers at this time of year

In recent years, Dundee has seen the continued growth of a local, dynamic creative community fuelled by our UNESCO City of Design designation and Waterfront redevelopments. We are lucky to have a variety of independent retailers profiling the work of local designers throughout the year. In 2014, driven by a desire to do my bit to champion other small creative businesses and local designers, I founded Tea Green events.

The aim is to create unique and curated selling events that are a true showcase of the independent creative talent based in Dundee and across Scotland.

In a city building a reputation for supporting its local creative community, this time of year is perfect for putting your money where your mouth is.

As Christmas approaches the canny shopper has the opportunity to navigate multiple markets, large and small in among a variety of independent retailers and pop up events in the hunt to secure that perfect gift!

It’s true, buying from a designer or maker may cost a little more than a standard piece of jewellery or knitwear from a high street store.

However, you might be surprised at how affordable handmade items can be and you know that more of your money is going directly to the designer or maker.

If you are one of those people that’s hard to buy for, why not add one of their products to your festive wish list?

And while you may spend a little more, what I know for sure is that heart, soul and a lot of skill goes into each piece. This is their passion.

Plus, by buying a local product you are supporting the local economy as the money is kept in the local area and contributes towards supporting local businesses and designers to thrive.

Remember these aren’t “throw away” items. They will be treasured, many with the potential to be future heirlooms.

But if you can’t afford to spend big there are lots of other ways to support local designers and makers at Christmas, and throughout the year, without breaking the bank.

One way is through being an advocate for them. Search for their accounts on your preferred social media platform and follow them.

Interact with their posts, and share their work on your profile – always remember to tag them!

If you spot their work when you are out and about, take photos of it and share online. Telling friends or family about them can make a huge difference – word of mouth is a powerful tool at your disposal.

You can also keep an eye out for any events they are taking part in and head along if you can. Many designers and makers also run workshops throughout the year. So why not treat yourself and head along to one or buy a voucher for a friend?

Taking part in a workshop is a great way to get all the satisfaction of making something for yourself – and trust me, it’s a great feeling!

Again don’t forget to share those events with your friends and family. A “like” on Facebook or a nice comment goes a long way and it helps designers and makers to remember all the hard work is worth it in the end.

● Tea Green has its festive pop up running at The Stables at Taypark house, open 10-5 every day until December 24, featuring a great selection of independent makers, including late night shopping Thursdays 5-9 throughout. For full exhibitor galleries visit www.TeaGreen.co.uk

If you are looking for more information on where other independent markets and Christmas fairs are taking place in Dundee, then Creative Dundee compiles a full listing every year which you can read at www.creativedundee. com