Gifts for Grown-ups

Gift buying isn't always easy especially if you are trying to buy for someone who seems to have it all or if you're like me you have people to buy for that aren't into socks, a generic dvd or a box of dairy milk!


The high street can provide gifts for grown-ups but the choice is limited and just a little bit predictable. What if you were looking for something unique, handmade or even custom made where would you go and how much would they realistically charge you for it?


All over the UK there are fantastic businesses that specialise in unique and handmade and all for very reasonable prices. To guide you on your gift search Our Local Crafts have put together a list of great businesses that may just sell what you are looking for.


The Write Scent
If you want pampering items for yourselves or others, then you can find a great range here. From bath bombs, to shower gels you can also buy gift sets at great prices. Pop over to their website or facebook page and see what's on offer at the moment.
http://www.thewritescent.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Write-Scent/207258439285547


Made for you

Used with permission from Made For You

If you are looking for something unique and personalised then maybe you would like a handmade family tree quilt? Made using fantastic fabrics and photo's of your family this is a keepsake that is practical and beautiful. Or maybe you would like some handmade bags? You can also find these here, using more fantastic fabric and with a great range of designs you will be able to find something you love. Visit their website or facebook page for more information and a gallery of their works.
http://www.stitchedmemories.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Made-for-you/123880201010864

Elibee Gifts

Used with permission from Elibee Gifts

If you are looking for gorgeous and handmade gifts then these are for you. With a wide variety of items you are sure to find something that catches your eye. Maybe you are looking for a clock, a bottle opener or maybe even a notepad with a unique or personalised feel then take a look at their website for brightly coloured, fun and funky items plus a full gallery of their work.
http://www.elibeegifts.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/elibeegifts


Smellies by Heidi

Used with permission from Smellies by Heidi

If you are looking for great smelling bath bombs and creams then look no further. What better gift for someone who loves pampering themselves than beautiful handmade bath products. Made using fantastic ingredients, these bath products look bright and fun and come packaged beautifully. Visit their website or facebook page and see what's on offer.
http://smelliesbyheidi.supersimpleshop.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/-Smellies-by-Heidi-/173304999364937


Gifts 4 The Family

Used with permission from Gifts 4 the family

If you are looking for a wonderful gift for someone who loves to be pampered then take a look at these. They make wonderful 'beauty cakes' with contents that would make any woman happy. You can also buy fantastic handmade cards too so why not visit their facebook page and see what they have to offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gifts-4-The-Family/182143941823822


Burgh Bakes - Homemade Gourmet Marshmallows

Used with permission from Burgh Bakes -  Handmade Gourmet Marshmallows

Are you looking for something tasty, different and perhaps a little alcoholic? Then why not try some alcoholic marshmallows, handmade and made to order so you will always receive them in the best condition. Don't worry they also make non alcoholic ones too! If the person you are buying for has a sweet tooth why not pop over to their facebook page and see what they have to offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Burgh-Bakes-Homemade-Gourmet-Marshmallows/160818280623765


Daniel James Photography - Based in the West Midlands

Used with permission from Daniel James Photography

Are you buying for someone who seems to have everything? Then how about a photo shoot? It's different and will be unique to the person you're buying for and would make a great day out with some fantastic, fun and professional keepsakes. Gift Vouchers are also available. Visit their website and facebook page for a full gallery of works, prices and opening times.
http://www.danieljamesphotography.net/portfolio/
http://www.facebook.com/danieljamesphoto


Cathy's Keepsakes

Used with permission from Cathy's Keepsakes

Looking for something unique, personalised and practical? How about an artwork cushion? These wonderful cushions are handmade using great fabrics and can be personalised using any drawing or photos you send to make them personal to you. These would make great anniversary and fathers day gifts. Visit their facebook page for more information and a full gallery of works.
http://www.facebook.com/CathysCratfts


Button Box Gifts

Used with permission from Button Box Gifts

Are you looking for something handmade, different, and maybe even artsy? Then these are for you, with a wonderful range of handmade dolls, jewellery and gifts each with an artistic and unique perspective you are sure to find something you will love. These items make wonderful gifts either to yourselves or others so make sure you visit their website or facebook page for more information and a full gallery of works.
http://www.kristajoy.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Button-Box-Gifts/218731223134


Sparkles Beauty - Torphins and surrounding area.

Used with permission from Sparkles Beauty

How about a professional pamper session you never have to leave the house for? If you live in the Torphins area in Scotland then you're in luck! Great, professional and relaxing beauty treatments you can truly relax with, why not treat yourselves or a friend. Visit their website and facebook page for more information and pricing. 
http://www.sparkles-beauty.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sparkles-Beauty/183503855001662

Fairy Annie Mary

Used with permission from Fairy Annie Mary

Know someone who loves cuddly and soft animals? Then these are for you. Wonderful handmade sock animals and door stops made using great fabrics, bright colours and created with love. These cute soft animals will make great gifts for all ages and their bride and groom sock monkeys make wonderful wedding and anniversary presents. Visit their facebook page for a full gallery of their work.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fairy-Annie-Mary/161397357222278


Squinty Jewellery

Used with permission from Squinty Jewellery

Are you looking for fantastic handmade jewellery? Then try these, with a wonderful collection of handmade necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more you are sure to find the right set for yourselves or for others. Made using bright colours and fantastic materials make sure you visit their facebook page for a full gallery of works.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Squinty-Jewellery/312834668985


Top That Cards

Used with permission from Top That Cards

How about something personalised, handmade you can keep? Then you will find those here, with a great range of handmade personalised photo frames and albums you are sure to find something you will love. And if you are looking for cards too then you won't have to go far. All their cards and keepsakes are made with bright and fun materials and are made to a high standard. Visit their website and facebook page for more information and a full gallery of works.
http://www.topthatcards.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Top-That-Cards/178898120935


There you have it, a wonderful collection of business selling fantastic items and services. I hope you enjoyed visiting these pages and websites and if you want more why not pop over to our website and facebook page too :)
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

Updated Scottish Business Showcase

Looking for businesses local to you? Do you live in Scotland? Then this feature is for you. It includes businesses from Our Local Crafts Facebook shout out earlier this week and businesses from previous shout outs to give you a wide range of shops and services in your area.


Elibee Gifts 
Based in Scotland here you will find beautiful handmade gifts for all ages and occasions. They have a wonderful range of items and you will not be short of choices for the perfect gift. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/elibeegifts
http://www.elibeegifts.co.uk/


Perfect Presents
Here you will find gorgeous gifts for all ages. From Nappy cakes for babies to Towel Cakes for adults you're sure to find something for that special gift. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Perfect-Presents/172048176150717


Squinty Jewellery
Here you will find a wonderful collection of handmade jewellery. They have some gorgeous sets so pop over to their page and see what's for sale.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Squinty-Jewellery/312834668985


Soapy Essentials
Based in Scotland, they make and sell wonderful aromatherapy products for the body; soaps, bath bombs, shower gels and much much more. Perfect for pampering yourselves pop over and have a look at the wonderful items on offer and if you know someone who would like them too pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Soapy-Essentials/132254746844860


Wax Teddies
Based in Scotland they have some wonderful hand dipped scented teddies and wax melts, great for replacing air fresheners around the home, they come in a beautiful variety of bears and other animals and would make great gifts. If you think someone would love these then please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wax-Teddies/134832249919741
http://www.waxteddies.com/


Harts and Crafts
Based in Scotland, they make and sell beautiful home wares from cushions to jam jar candles, they have a wonderful range that is definitely not to be missed. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves their gorgeous range and if you know someone who would love their items please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/Hartsandcrafts2011


Handmade by Jacqueline
Based in Scotland, they have stunning hand made cards available for all occasions at reasonable prices. Pop over to their page and I'm sure you will see something you love and is right for the occasion. If you know someone who would like one of these cards please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Handmade-by-Jacqueline/152423071444403


Accessobride
Based in Scotland, they specialise in bridal and wedding accessories. If you are looking for beautiful accessories then these have them and if you know someone who will be interested in them then please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Accessobride/102349166510934


I hoped you enjoyed visiting these wonderful businesses, if you are not from Wales and would like to see businesses in your area take a look at our other blog postings or visit our facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts

Summer Fashion Special

This last weeks weather has been fantastic, the majority of the UK saw clear skies and beautiful sunshine and we are only in April! If this weather continues right through to June then summer is going to be fantastic.
But what to wear?
We can all find a pretty summer dress or a great pair of shorts but what about accessories? Bags, Jewellery... Shoes?
There are so many great accessories out there that's it's easy to lose track of something you've found or to just get swamped completely. 
And if you're looking for something special or handmade, where do you go? How can you find what you're looking for no matter your budget?
Our Local Crafts has put together a wonderful list of fantastic businesses offering handmade summer fashion accessories all in one place, so sit down, relax and get ready to browse this years summer fashion special.


Designer Shoes Not Designer Prices - Delivers within the UK

Used with permission from Designer Shoes Not Designer Prices

If you are looking for some fabulous shoes this summer then look no further. Beautiful designer shoes at affordable prices. They also provide mother of the bride shoes and matching handbags so if you are planning a summer wedding then this could be you one and only stop for beautiful shoes. If you have the perfect dress then you'll need the perfect shoes, visit their website for all the latest in footwear fashion.
http://www.designershoesnotdesignerprices.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/designershoesnotdesignerprices


Debi Designs - Delivers within the UK


If you are looking for pretty and bright handmade jewellery to match your summer clothing then your sure to find something you like here. Made using bright, fun and colourful materials, there are a wide range of items for you to look through. If you are planning a summer wedding then make sure to check out there tiaras especially if you are looking for something different. Visit their website to see a full gallery of their designs.
http://www.debidesigns.co.uk/Tiaras-and-Hair-accessories.html
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Debi-Designs/116936888359690


Pretty Lil Things - Delivers within the UK


Are you a fan of brightly coloured handmade floral jewellery? If so then you can find a wonderful range of them and other designs here. You will find wonderful designs in a variety of bright colours in bracelets, necklaces and earrings. Visit their page to see a full gallery of their works.
http://www.facebook.com/Pretty.Lil.Things.1


Luvlii - Delivers within the UK


If you are looking for great handmade bags and clothing then look no further, handmade with wonderfully bright and fun fabric, they have a wonderful collection of clothing, bags and scarves. They have some truly beautiful items for summer and a fabrics section to help you find the designs that suit you. Visit their page for a full gallery of their designs.
http://www.folksy.com/shops/luvlii
http://www.facebook.com/LuvliiBags

Lindy's Loops - Delivers within the UK


Are you looking for retro inspired bags and dresses? Then you can find them here. Handmade using wonderful fabrics you will find fantastic bags and dresses coming soon perfect for a retro feel summer day. Visit their page for their gallery and visit their blog for updates on up and coming items.
http://www.folksy.com/shops/LindysLoops
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lindys-Loops/107489712670765
http://lindysloopsuk.blogspot.com/

Millie's Bags - Delivers within the UK

Used with permission from Millie's Bags

If you are looking for fantastically made knitted bags for summer then look no further. Made from a variety of great colours and finished beautifully you won't be disappointed this summer for lack of bags! As well as bags you can find a great collection of other summer accessories from headbands to scarves. Visit their page for a fully gallery of their work.
http://www.folksy.com/shops/MilliesBags
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Millies-Bags/111696598850879

Summer accessories don't have to be only for adults. You will find some gorgeous hair accessories and bags for children and young adults here:


Nelly & Jack - Delivers within the UK

Used with permission from Nelly&Jack

If you are looking for wonderfully cute handmade hair accessories then you will find them here. Using sweet pastel colours, these accessories will stand out and make any summer dress sweeter than usual. You can also find fantastic drawstring bags perfect for a variety of summer activities. Visit their page for a full gallery of their designs.
http://www.folksy.com/shops/NellyandJack
http://www.facebook.com/pages/NellyJack/113291562066778

Charlotte's Gifts - Delivers within the UK

Used with permission from Charlotte's Gifts

Are you looking for pretty handmade headbands for your toddler? Then look no further, handmade using bright summer colours and pretty floral and butterfly designs. With a variety of colours this great you are sure to find something you are looking for. Visit their page for a full gallery of their designs.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Charlottes-gifts/192823737413442

There you have it, a wonderful collection of items and accessories for summer, if you are looking for something specific that isn't on here why not visit our website or our facebook page where you will find over 300 fantastic handmade crafting businesses from around the UK.
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/

Special Wedding Feature

Summer is fast approaching and that can only mean one thing.. wedding season! And why not; sunshine, outdoor pictures and parties and a better more natural tan! But what about the little things, you know favours, gifts for the bridesmaids, thank you cards and the myriad of other items, doesn't it make your head spin? I know it does mine. 


Where do you start?
There are a thousand and one websites, books, people all shouting at you to let them help and by the end of it all your still not sure of anything other than the growing need to take an aspirin!
Our Local Crafts has come up with a list of fantastic businesses to help with this problem all under one roof. These are all small businesses which means you get the attention you deserve with the quality you demand.


Jude's Jewels Handmade Designer Jewellery - Stirling, Scotland. Posts worldwide.
Offers a wonderful range of handmade bespoke jewellery. If you are looking for something different yet special then they are for you. Brooches, tiaras, hair pins, cufflinks and more, made to order for your tastes. They have a full gallery of their work on their website and facebook page.
http://www.judesjewels.co.uk/ourshop/cat_49815-WeddingBridal-Prom-and-Special-Occasion-Jewellery.html
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Judes-Jewels-Handmade-Designer-Jewellery/211021065361


JewelleryMadeWithLove - Posts within the UK
Offers a beautiful range of handmade to order cufflinks, bracelets, bookmarks and wine glass charms as wedding favours. They have a wonderful range available and if you are looking for something different to use as wedding favours then look no further. For a full gallery of their work see their facebook page. They also offer discounts for large orders.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/JewelleryMadeWithLove/188199801210633

Designer shoes not designer prices - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from DesignerShoesNotDesignerPrices

Has a wonderful range of mother of the bride/groom shoes and matching bags. If you are looking something special for your feet then these are for you. Stunning shoes with stunning matching accessories, what's not to love. You can find a full gallery of their items on their website and facebook page.
http://www.designershoesnotdesignerprices.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/designershoesnotdesignerprices

Sweet Bottoms - Delivery of sweet favours within the UK. Candy buffets to the Nottingham, Derby and Leicestershire Areas.
Can provide sweet wedding favours to suit your needs. Everyone likes sweets and they are the classic wedding favour. If you are looking for something different how about a sweet buffet? These can be provided in the Nottingham, Derby and Leicester area. Got a sweet tooth and want to stand out? Then these are for you. For a full gallery of their services you can find them on facebook.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Bottoms/184913861538948

Relatively Pink - Delivery within the UK
They have a wonderful range of handmade bespoke wedding invites, stationary and thank you cards. They also make everlasting bouquets, beautiful flowers made from paper. If you want something special you can keep then these are for you. You can find a full gallery of work on their facebook page. They can work to your budget so that you can receive the items you want at the prices you want.
http://www.facebook.com/relativelypink1


Rosewood Flowers - Based in Cambridge

Used with permission from Rosewood Flowers

Beautiful handmade bouquets of wooden flowers. The flowers are all handcrafted to give you the attention to detail and quality needed. They are made to order so please order in advance. Bouquets, buttonholes, wall and table decorations available to order. Price is based on individual orders. To see their work a gallery is available on their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rosewood-Flowers/148788755187014

Smellies by Heidi - Posts within the UK

Used with permission from Smellies By Heidi

Gorgeous, scented and perfect for wedding favours. You will find a wide range of handmade bathbombs, creams and salts. Individually made so that you receive your items fresh and smelling perfect. If you are looking for something different to use as wedding favours then these are for you. Beautifully presented and made with care. You can find the full range of these on their website and facebook page.
http://smelliesbyheidi.supersimpleshop.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/-Smellies-by-Heidi-/173304999364937


Eleanor Jane Cards - Delivers within the UK

Used with permission from Eleanor Jane Cards

If you are looking for cards or invitations, then take a look at these. You will find a wide range of handmade cards, invitations and order of ceremonies leaflets. You can find the full range of these on their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002285638725


These are but a few of the wonderful businesses out there and as you can see they are offering high quality items that will make any special day stand out just that little bit more. If there is something specific you are looking for just send me a message or comment and I can find it for you.
Please feel free to pass this blog along to people you think would be interested.


http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/

Yorkshire Business Showcase

Since our last showcasing on business based in Yorkshire we have had quite a few more wonderful businesses based there. Take a peek at what they do and what they offer and I'm sure you'll agree these are great businesses.


PlanetKitty 
Based in Halifax you will find gorgeous handmade jewellery. They have some gorgeous bracelets and sets and would make excellent gifts for someone. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/PlanetKitty/322868133368


Jewellarama 
Based in Worksop you will find a great collection of handmade jewellery. Fun and cute you're sure to find something that suits your personality. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jewellarama/137965736274728


Hand made gifts 
Based in Leeds you will find a collection of beads and findings available and ready to frame cross completed cross stitchings. They are fairly new but it looks like they could have some interesting crafty items for sale in the future so is one to watch. Pop on over and see if they can help.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hand-made-gifts/205826132770830


Gifts 4 The Family 
Based in Leeds you will find a fantastic collection of gift based ranges; cards, chocolates, jewellery and more. If your looking for a gift for someone you could find it here. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gifts-4-The-Family/182143941823822


Giddy Designs 
Based in Sheffield you will find a beautiful collection of handmade brooches, hair accessories and more. If you love bright, fun and quality items then pop over to their page and see what's on offer. 
http://www.facebook.com/giddydesigns


Loved By Lou ~ Handmade Jewellery~ 
Based in Yorkshire you will find a great selection of handmade jewellery for all occasions. Pop over to their page to see what beautiful items are on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Loved-By-Lou-Handmade-Jewellery/211878842157303


Kirsty's Kross Stitch 
Based in Doncaster you will find a great collection cross stitch charts, they can even convert your photographs into charts for a more personalised gift. Pop over to their page and see what they can offer you.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kirstys-Kross-Stitch/166228760099092


Wildheart 
Based in Yorkshire you will find a beautiful collection of handmade beadwoven jewellery. There are some stunning designs and you are sure to find something you adore. Pop over to their page to see what wonderful items are on offer.
http://www.wildheartcrafts.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wildheart/176255819058125


Stacy's Sewing Box 
Based in Bridlington you will find a wonderful collection of handmade home furnishings. They have some wonderful items to offer pop over to their page and see for yourselves.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stacys-Sewing-Box/205220462829158


GLITZ & BITZ
Based in Yorkshire they have a gorgeous selection of Jewellery and gifts. Well worth a visit if you are looking for quality handmade items. If you know someone looking for jewellery and gifts pass along their details xx
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Glitz-Bitz/188795291160016


CRAFT-STABLES 
Based in Yorkshire they provide Jewellery Making Workshops for everyone. Pop over and visit and if you know anyone in the area who would be interested pass along their details xx
http://www.facebook.com/CraftStables

Hope you enjoyed taking a mini tour of businesses in Yorkshire, if you know someone who would love one of their items please feel free to pass this blog and their links along. The more people who know the better!


If you're not from Yorkshire don't worry take a look at our website or our other blog postings for businesses near you!


http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/businessdirectory.html

Occasion Cakes and Chocolates

Finding the right cake for the occasion can be difficult to say the least. One of the biggest questions is where to go, now there is anything wrong with shop bought I'm sure they are practical and quick but where's the choice, the personality and importantly where's the love? 
Occasion cakes need love and attention, they also need to be flexible, some people just don't like raspberry jam and why should you compromise when it's your occasion.
If you're anything like me making them is out of the question, my cakes are only good as a cheap pudding when  I've run out of ice cream and as for decorating them.. well lets just forget that nightmare right now. There is no way I'm going to volunteer or be asked to make a special occasion cake for anyone!


So where do you go?
To help you decide here are some excellent small businesses that hand make and lovingly create the perfect cakes for your occasions.


Sweet Moments (Cakes By Aly) - Wirral/ Liverpool/ Ellesmere Port and surrounding areas.

Used with permission from Sweet Moments (Cakes by Aly)

Beautiful cakes and chocolates all handmade by a pastry chef with over 20 years experience. Concentrating on celebration cakes and desserts you will find some amazing creations for all occasions with no two cakes ever being the same. Prices are based on individual orders.
You will find photographs of their work on their facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/sweetmomentscake


Rachel's Cake Studio - Based in Dartford, Kent, and deliver to most of the South East - cakes can also be collected.

Used with permission from Rachel's Cake Studio

Fantastic cakes lovingly created for all occasions. Made with the finest ingredients and wherever possible organic too. Each cake is well designed and painstakingly decorated. Full gallery of previous work can be seen on their facebook page. Prices are based on individual orders.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachels-Cake-Studio/184125234943727

Delicious Catering and Cupcakes - Leicestershire Area, Cake pops and cupcake truffles can be delivered throughout England, Wales and Scotland.

Used with permission from Delicious Catering and Cupcakes - Leicester.

Beautiful cakes stunningly decorated for all occasions. They use fresh, local, free range and organic ingredients to make your cakes even more special. Beautifully presented you're sure to find the cake you want. A gallery of their work can be seen on both their website and facebook. Prices for larger cakes are based on individual orders.
http://www.deliciouscatering.moonfruit.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Delicious-Catering-and-Cupcakes-Leicester/151173138260416


The Ginger Baker Scotland - Glasgow, collection in person also available.

Used with permission from The Ginger Baker Scotland

Fantastic bespoke cakes for all occasions. With many different flavours and decorations to the highest quality you will find cakes full of flavour, with lots of sprinkles and glitter. You can find a gallery of their work on their facebook page. Prices are based on individual orders.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Ginger-Baker-Scotland/180973581946659


Tracy's Cupcake Creations - Based in Norwich, Norfolk

Used with permission from Tracy's Cupcake Creations

Beautiful cakes for all occasions. From classic to modern designs, sizes and shapes you are sure to find the perfect cake. Stunningly made and well presented these cakes will make your day even more memorable. For a full gallery of their work visit their facebook page. Prices for fruit and sponge cakes are from £20 and cupcakes are from £1 each.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tracys-Cupcake-Creations/167888356603480


There you have it, some wonderful cakes from around the UK. Bespoke handmade cakes can make an occasion and with this collection the only problem you will have now is choice!
If there isn't a listing for handmade cakes in your area send me a comment and I will chase some up for you, I hope you find this blog useful, please feel free to pass this along so that others can see the great cake makers featured!