I spent the weekend discovering an array of independent businesses and checked out some wonderful people who are making and creating fabulous hand made, individual and delicious products all in and around Norfolk and Suffolk.
The weekend started at The Norfolk Christmas Faye in association with Jarrolds supported by Redwell, set in the beautiful Cathedral cloisters. I was amazed how many gins are made in Norfolk and I had to have a little taste of all of them didn’t I. As a gin fan I now have a few more to add to my drinks cabinet.
Wonderful flavours from Fox Denton Gin.
More gin distilled on the Sandringham Estate, with a great name Whata Hoot a fittingly named for the setting of the fayre – Archangel
One that is on my wish list for Christmas is Twelve Keys – a little bit unusual in its taste – honey from hives from their own wildflower meadow is combined with fig, basil, caramelised quince and served with a slice of fig and a coffee bean – it is my new favourite by far!!
With all that alcohol my next point of call Lemon Tree Fine Foods was for some really tasty cheese again with unusual flavours so we will be paying them a little visit very soon to check out more.
Wine next from Toppesfield Vineyard who do a rather fabulous rose that would be delicious over ice with a few strawberries and rose petals for a summer party.
I love shopping in independent shops rather than high street stores, finding different and individual gifts rather than a generic one with no thought behind it. Keep an eye on my Instagram stories for where I love to shop.
One place I love to visit as it is always such an inspiration for my home – is Carol Lake – she hosted a Botanical Pop Up showcasing her designs and gifts with a floral theme – I will be popping again when we get cracking on the next stage of our house re-vamp for a few pieces.
These soaps will be heading to my bathroom very soon.
Sunday saw us go local to Fierce Babes Market run by two fabulous ladies who get makers, bakers and creatives all together to sell their wares and it was so wonderful to see so many amazing creatives in one place with so many gift ideas and individual items that you just don’t get on the high street make sure you follow them on Instagram to find out all about their next market and all the fabulous sellers.
Such fun prints and badges from Amy Blue Etsy shop.
Fell in love with the fabulous smell of fig and cassis of this Writing Well Project candle so it came home with me.
How amazing would this be for a wedding or new baby gift or any occasion – Pixels & Purls.
Meeting up with the mega and totally talented babe that is Morwenna Farrell who designed a T – shirt for me and I love it!!
I had such fun shopping, walking round fayres starting to get into the festive spirit. We are so lucky that we have so many creative people and independent businesses in Norfolk. It is important to shop local, independent and buy sustainable presents not just at Christmas but anytime of year. Supporting small businesses is important and apart from anything else it is so much more fun finding unique gifts for your friends and family. Just imagine how they we feel knowing you took time to find something you knew they would love rather than a generic gift set!!
