Shops and makers
Choose independent high street shops and designer/ makers for unique and thoughtful presents
Collate Carefully sourced antiques sit alongside stylish modern objects
This gem of a shop sells an eclectic mix of new, vintage and second-hand homewares, local arts and crafts and, on occasions, antiques. Collate’s owner, Naomi, sources all of the items herself, working directly with the local makers and companies in Axminster, Devon, ensuring that everything fits within the ethos of ‘buy less, buy better’. The wooden dressers in the shop display rows of French-style cups (£15) alongside colourful hand-dipped candles (£5 a pair) and bunches of dried flowers (from £15). Expect to find treasures such as pressed glassware, stoneware bowls, ceramic jelly moulds and market baskets. collateinteriors.com
Freight Mum and daughter duo create a shop with a heart
A homeware store in Lewes, East Sussex, Freight holds conscious living at its heart with its range of simple, yet stunning products. Established in 2014 by Helene and Adele, Freight collaborates with makers to recreate household goods that are going to last well and wear even better. Adele designs many of the products for the growing in-house collection, from scented candles (£34) to lambswool jumpers (£100). Freight is also good for special treats; from sustainable and cruelty-free skincare products by AMLY (from £45) to tins of black truffle and porcini-infused oil (£15.50) and Blanxart hot chocolate bars (£6). freightstore.co.uk
Moth An actually calming shopping experience
Moth is an interior and lifestyle concept store based in Didsbury, Manchester. Owner Hazel’s philosophy is to select objects that are simple and pared down for everyday living. The shop has a serene atmosphere thanks to all the products sharing the soft tones of white, cream and grey, coupled with the aroma of the scented candles. If you’re gift shopping, you’ll be hard pushed not to find something here; from generous hand-woven throws with deep tufted detailing (from £49), to scented candles (from £8.50) and soaps (from £8). mothstyle.com