2023 Gift Guide

With Christmas just around the corner, I thought it might be helpful to put together a short list of some bits n bobs I think might tick some of your boxes this gift-giving season.

Most, if not all the items on this list are made by lovely independent businesses based in the UK (many of them in Sheffield), so if you purchase anything from this non-exhaustive list of excellent makers, you know your money’s going to a good place. The list also includes some of my own most gift-able creations, which I hope you’ll excuse me for…

1) Ramble Guides: The Lake District

A brilliant, comprehensive 250 book detailing many relatively short day hikes in the Lakes. Expect stunning photography, great café stops & camping recommendations, as well as Athena’s favourite wild swimming spots. This book follows on from her first book - Ramble Guides: The Peak District. Both are £18.

2) Becca Brown’s iconic Jingle Baubles

Each hugging porcelain pair is unique, made with a tiny bell inside, handmade by Becca in her workshop in Sheffield (she’s an upstairs neighbour of mine!). These sell like absolute hot cakes, catch her at a market in the city or purchase via her online shop. £24.

3) Ridge & Furrow Ginko Leaf Mug

Marisa of Ridge & Furrow Ceramics makes some lovely things from her workshop in the Cotswolds - I’m especially awed by her Bracket Fungus Vases. But for the gift guide, I thought I’d include this great Ginko Mug in a fabulous shade of mustard. £30.

4) Steel Sheffield Contours Hanging Decoration

My own Steel Sheffield Contours Hanging Decoration - a more unusual homage to our city of seven hills. String up on the tree this festive period, or hang in a light spot year round, catching the changing light. £45.

5) Peak District Coaster set by Of Alp & Ash

Made by Debs in the North West of England, these Peak District coasters are just ace! The set consists of 6 wooden coasters, featuring popular hills in the area, some with the start of the Pennine Way marked on too. If the Peaks isn’t your/their thing, she makes them for places across the UK, so go and check Of Alp & Ash’s shop out. £36.

6) Miniature Double Petal Silver Studs by Holly Suzanna Clifford

Another self plug! You might be aware that I also have another jewellery business - Holly Suzanna Clifford, where I made colourful and detailed nature inspired pieces. These are some of my favourite studs, which I personally wear everyday (they go really well in second piercing holes alongside other earrings). £32.

7) Bethan Nadin Sottish Mountains Wall Calendar

Everybody needs a wall calendar, and this one by artist Bethan Nadin is sure to float the boat of any mountain lover! Each month features a beautiful painting of different Scottish mountains. £16.

8) Prints and original art by Samantha Gare

Another one for the mountain lovers out there, Sam Gare’s work is the stuff dreams are made of. If you’re looking for some art to brighten up your walls, look no further! Be quick though, as she’s spending winter in the Hebrides, so her last shipping date for un-framed prints is December 10th.

9) Metallic Sheffield Contour Map Print by Contour Map Collection

What’s this…? Another mention of Contour Map Collection’s work!? Last one, promise - just thought I should add in my Sheffield Metallic A4 Print, as it’s another great low-budget present idea. The contours of the city glisten with a coppery sheen at different angles, and it looks stunning in a black mount/frame. £25.

10) Bullion Sheffield Snowflakes

And finally, the list wouldn’t be complete without something foody in the mix. I’ve gone for local chocolatiers Bullion’s Sheffield Snowflake (70% cocoa is my preference) as an ideal stocking filler. Funds from the sale of these will be donated to Sheffield Children’s Hospital, which makes it taste even better! £10.

If it’s chocolate you’re after, Nottingham based business Luisa’s needs an honourable mention as a fabulous all vegan bean to bar choccie producer.