Midlands Business Showcase

Today we showcased businesses from the Midlands, since we last showcased that area we have quite a few more members from there and here they are:


Beading Barn 
Based in the Midlands you will find a wonderful collection of beads and findings, perfect if you are looking to make your own jewellery or if you already do. Pop over to their page and see what they can offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Beading-Barn/146507602082826


Funky Freaktures 
Based in Lincolnshire they have a wonderful collection of unique critters and bags. They are brilliantly made and will make a great present so pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/FunkyFreakturesPage


Hand made with love - Especially for you 
Based in the Midlands you will find a gorgeous range of handmade accessories and wooden home wares. Pop over to their page you won't be disappointed, your sure to find something you like.
http://www.hmwithlove-especially4u.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Hand-made-with-love-Especially-for-you/151486338243365


BirdieGingham Accessories for you and your home 
Based in Birmingham you will find a gorgeous collection of handmade home wares and accessories. If you are looking for something special and different for your home then pop by their page and see what's on offer!
http://www.facebook.com/BirdieGingham


Madeforu Bespoke and Made for u
Based in Tamworth you will find a great collection of gifts, handmade cards and sweet bags. Pop over to their pages to see what's on offer at the moment, their gift baskets look fantastic.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002279660037
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Made-for-u/147719285287155


Eleanor Jane Cards 
Based in Walsall you'll find some great handmade cards for all occasions. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer and how they can help you.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002285638725


Artemis Designs 
Based in Lincolnshire you will find a stunning collection of unique handmade jewellery. If your after something different and special then pop over to their page and see for yourselves these gorgeous pieces.
http://www.artemisdesigns-jewellery.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/ArtemisDesignsJewellery


Crafty Critters 
Based in Lincolnshire you will find a fantastic collection of handmade children's clothing, bright and funky you're sure to find something you want. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer. They also have 10% off orders made before April 30th!
http://www.facebook.com/CraftyCrittersShop


Sweet Bottoms 
Based in Derby you'll find a wonderful collection of gifts including handmade nappy cakes, sweet bags and more. Pop by their page and see what's on offer at the moment.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sweet-Bottoms/184913861538948


Delicious Catering and Cupcakes, Leicester
Based in Leicester you will find a stunning variety of handmade cakes for all occasions, they are wonderfully presented and will make a great centrepiece for your event. Pop over to their page to see for yourselves the gorgeous cakes on offer.
http://www.deliciouscatering.moonfruit.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Delicious-Catering-and-Cupcakes-Leicester/151173138260416


Elderberry Blue 
Based in the Midlands you will find some beautiful handmade cards, using some great materials I'm sure you find something you like. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.elderberryblue.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Elderberry-Blue/190908574278097


Kate's Cards 
Based in Derbyshire you will find a fantastic range of handmade cards for all occasions, if you are looking great cards with personality then these are for you. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kates-Cards/157226060955988


Crystal Bears 
Based in Derby you will find amazing handmade teddy bears and jewellery. If you are looking for a great gift then look no further and no 2 bears are exactly the same.
http://crystalbears.co.uk/default.aspx
http://www.facebook.com/crystalbears2011


Cute as a button 
Based in the Midlands you will find gorgeous handmade bags, bunting and hair clips, if you are looking for cute and bright accessories then these are for you. Pop by their page and see for yourselves what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cute-as-a-button/201545279868244


Exclusively by Claire 
Based in the Midlands, they sell beautiful hand made cards for all occasions. Made with gorgeous materials you will definitely find something your after. Pop by their page and see for yourselves the beauty of these cards.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Exclusively-by-Claire/200188420002511


Be-Dazzled2011 
Based in Northampton they make and sell beautiful jewellery. You will find some gorgeous pieces that would make great gifts for either yourselves or someone you love. Pop over to their page and see what they have on offer at the moment.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Be-Dazzled2011/217074324975581


Relatively Pink 
Based in Rugby, they make and sell stunning hand made cards, paper bouquets and other beautiful paper craft items. Items can be made to order so pop over to their page and see what they can offer you.
http://www.facebook.com/relativelypink1


The Empire Soap Collection 
Based in the Midlands they sell soaps, bath bombs, shampoo and other wonderful pampering goodies. So if your looking for some beautiful 'me time' products pop over to their page and see what's on offer. If you know someone who could do with some good quality pampering then please pass along their details.
http://www.theempiresoapcollection.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Empire-Soap-Collection/132983483437673


TinksTreasures 
Based in the Midlands, you will find gorgeous hand made jewellery. Perfect for gifts for yourselves or others, you will find a piece you love. Pop over to their page and see these beautiful creations for yourselves. 
http://www.facebook.com/pages/TinksTreasures/125668290838898


There you have it, our growing range of businesses in the Midlands, if you are looking for businesses in other areas you can find them on our facebook page and website.
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!

Scotland Business Showcase

Yesterday we added new businesses to our Scottish business showcase. There are some wonderful businesses in the area.

Pretty Lil Things 
Based in Scotland you will find a beautiful collection of handmade jewellery. With plenty of styles to chose from you're sure to find something you like. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves what they have to offer. 
http://www.facebook.com/Pretty.Lil.Things.1

Butterfly Candles and Soaps 
Based in Scotland you will gorgeous handmade high quality soaps and candles. They have a beautiful range and they would make wonderful gifts. Make sure you check out their jar and tin candles they look fantastic! 
http://www.butterflycandlesandsoaps.com
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Butterfly-Candles-and-Soaps/106239439442322


JewelleryMadeWithLove 
Based in Scotland you will find wonderful, bright and fun jewellery. They have a great range and you are sure to find something for all occasions. Pop over to their page and see what they have to offer at the moment.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/JewelleryMadeWithLove/188199801210633


Belladumpling 
Based in Scotland you will find a beautiful range of handmade wooden home accessories that can be personalised. If you are looking for that something special try these. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.belladumpling.co.uk
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Belladumpling/122514194493006


RosieGlo 
Based in Stirling, Scotland. They are a make up artistry business with a great looking portfolio so if you are getting married, celebrating or just need to look fantastic and different pop over to their page and see if they can help.
http://www.facebook.com/RosieGloMakeUp


Jewellery making by kate 
Based in Scotland you will find a great selection of bright and fun handmade jewellery. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jewellery-making-by-kate/209593159059547


Jewellery by Kris 
Based in Elgin, Scotland. You will find a wonderful collection of handmade jewellery and cute hair clips. If you are looking for a great gift for someone then pop by their page and take a look at what they're offering.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jewellery-by-Kris/139873866072968


Bedecked Beads 
Based in Scotland you will find a stunning range of handmade jewellery for all occasions. Beautifully made and presented you are sure to find something you adore. Pop over to their page and see for yourselves their range.
http://www.bedeckedbeads.co.uk/
http://www.facebook.com/bedeckedbeads


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.waxteddies.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wax-Teddies/134832249919741


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


You can find all these great businesses and more on our facebook page and our websites directory. 
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/

North West Business Showcase

Yesterday's showcase was for businesses in the North West UK. There are some wonderful businesses and services available, see for yourselves:


Clips & Glitz 
Based in Cheshire you will find a gorgeous range of handmade hair clips, head bands and bobbles. If you are looking for cute and well made hair accessories then this is the place for you. Pop over to their page and see what they have to offer and if you know someone who would be interested in them please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/ClipsAndGlitz


sweet moments (cakes by Aly) 
Based in the Wirral you will a delicious range of handmade celebration cakes and desserts for all occasions. Just looking at their page makes my mouth water so just imagine eating one of their products!! Pop over to their page and see what they can do and if you know someone who would be interested please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/sweetmomentscake


Precious Memories - Baby Hand and Foot castings
With studio's around the UK you can also find one in the Widnes/Liverpool area. They create 2d and 3d hand and foot prints and castings to make wonderful memories you can treasure. Pop over to their group page and see what's on offer and if you know someone who would be interested please pass along their details. 
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=185795129822


Sutton Soap Handmade Natural and Organic Soap 
Based in Cheshire you will find an amazing range of hand made soaps and other cosmetic items. They have a great collection and you're sure to spot something you like, if you know someone else who would be interested please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/SuttonSoaps


Ever So Pretty Designs 
Based in Blackburn and Bolton you will find a great collection of handmade jewellery. These pieces make great gifts!. You can even find some beautiful handmade cushions and other great items, pop over to their page to see what's on offer and if you know someone who would be interested please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/EverSoPrettyDesigns


Handmade by jojo 
Based in Blackburn you will find a fantastic collection of handmade sock animals, keyrings and nappy cakes. They have some great items at the moment so make sure you pop over to their page and take a look! If you know someone who would be interested please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Handmade-by-jojo/148417798548000


Made by Mia's Mum 
Based in Warrington you will find a great range of beautiful sock handmade sock animals and fantastic handmade cards. Pop over to their page and see what's on offer and if you know someone who would like them please pass along their details.
http://www.facebook.com/madebymiasmum

There are more wonderful small businesses on our facebook page and if you're not from the North West or don't mind shopping a little further afield then pop over and have a look at our local business directory for other great small businesses including fantastic services!
http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts
http://www.ourlocalcrafts.co.uk/

Our Services

This is just a quick blog (if it's possible for me!) to let everyone know the services we offer, as we are growing quite rapidly now and my posts on the FB page are kind of getting lost :)


My aim is to get UK small businesses noticed, proving to everyone that small business is alive and kicking and in most instances 100% better quality than most high street retailers (Friendlier too!) therefore promoting our items and services and in return getting the sales we deserve.


Every day on our facebook page I hold special shout-outs for businesses in specific areas. Posting those showcased in our blog here and on our website, tweeting it and promoting them through my personal and own business pages. Our FB page is also where you can find up to date information on fetes and fairs in your area. We have plenty of people on there who advertise their available stalls and up and coming markets. 
It's also the place to go if you are looking for a specific item either custom made or pre made as we have quite a lot of businesses advertising and regularly using our page.


Our website is where you can find our business directories for both retail and services. It is also where you will be able to find information on reviewed products from both me and members of our community, this feature will be available from Wednesday 20th April.


The majority of our services are free including being added to our directories, however we do have a new paid service available this will include:

• Your business showcased, with a full write up of what you offer, where your based, prices, links, pictures and what special offers you have on if any.
• Advertised on our website, twitter page, blog and FB page.

This service costs £3.99

I can be contacted via our website or by emailing sales@yummyspirit.co.uk

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

http://www.facebook.com/OurLocalCrafts