If you’re anything like us at CWG, The Big C has snuck up on us good and proper so we’re beginning to have a think about what we’re going to place beneath the tree. It can be a time that is a tad overwhelming with so many options out there and despite all the possibilities, inspiration can be lacking!
So that’s where we come in, think of us as your little CWG Christmas Inspiration Elves! We’ve put together a gift guide (coming to you in two instalments) full of our favourite brands, big and small, to help you along the way and offer ideas for each person close to you this Christmas.
In this first instalment, we’ll delve into Country Classics, Elegant Accessories and Festive Foodie Treats!
Country Classics
You can’t beat the favourites at Christmas time, be they big or small gifts you are after, these classic country brands have you covered.
For the all-weather worker in your life how about some outdoor wear from the ever popular Ridgeline or Ariat, with jackets and gilets designed to be waterproof, windproof and super warm – a gift from either brand is sure to be a hit with those who regularly battle the elements. These two brands are firm favourites with us at CWG, so we can testify to their durability.
Looking for a present that will stand the test of the time? How about gifting the epitome of rural English Fashion – a good old fashioned Barbour Wax Jacket, or a pair of Dubarry Boots. Quintessentially country, but perfectly practical – a win-win if you ask us.
If it’s a country classic accessory you are after, Mackenzie and George are a firm CWG favourite. We adore their beautiful belts and card sleeves, handcrafted in their workshop in Shropshire. Gorgeous just as they are, or for that extra special touch, have the new lucky owner’s initials embossed on one side.
Elegant Accessories
If beautiful designs, rich colours and velvety textures are on your ‘to gift list’ this year then look no further than Elizabeth Scarlett. From Frill Pouches to Coin Purses and limited edition Christmas Stockings, a gift from Elizabeth Scarlett is sure to be a hit. Many of their pieces can even be personalised, making them extra special. A few of our favourites are the Honey Bee Everyday Pouch – perfect as an inner handbag organiser or clutch; the Starry Sky Eye Mask – guaranteed to bring deep sleeps and good dreams; and The Honey Bee Stocking – to bring classy Christmas magic to any fireplace or bed post.
And for that friend who can’t help but have a messy make up station (don’t we all!) we love these Wash Bags from World Secrets, perfect for a weekend away with enough room to hold all the essentials. And to make this gift even more special… each one is completely different to the next as they are all ‘made from antique Turkish kilim rugs meaning each one is one of a kind’. How wonderful!
Stocking fillers are a key part of Christmas in our households, and Barkworth Reeve have some splendid additions to anyone’s stocking. Our top three would have to be: the Leather Pony Coin Purse, the 4×4 Leather Keyring and the Tweed Sausage Dog Pencil Case is just adorable! Not only does this brand create the most beautiful pieces from bags to purses to ponchos, they are also a female founded family business based in Yorkshire – you couldn’t get more CWG if you tried!
If you’re after something delicate that encapsulates the countryside why not gift the countryside in silver form from Hiho Silver. We adore these Silver Pheasant Studs, or to make it a little more festive how about the Silver Partridge Studs and matching necklace. And for a gentleman recipient, we think these Shotgun Cartridge Cufflinks would go down with a bang (sorry we couldn’t help ourselves!).
Just to be completely above board, we do need to point out to you that Hiho belongs to our very own Emma Warren, so we’ll pop #owncompanyad on this one.
Festive Foodie Treats
It wouldn’t be Christmas without good food, and good food we have found!
We love the idea, of gifting local, so how about seeing if your local butcher or farmer offers a meat box? This can be a lovely gift for a friend and can even help them out with a freezer restock! If this isn’t something on offer at your local suppliers, or your friend/family member isn’t local to you, go and have a look at The Dorset Meat Company who ship marvellous meat boxes (and more!) all across England. How about a Dorset Lovers Box for Two or a Butcher’s Meat Box? Your recipient doesn’t even have to be at home to receive the order, so no need to panic if a surprise delivery is what you intend!
Chutneys and condiments are always a hit at Christmas time, they make perfect little gifts for neighbours and friends, are super popular stocking fillers and always a welcome addition to that Boxing Day leftover sandwich or cheeseboard! Check out Montys for a yummy array of mustards and chutneys, we love the sound of their Red Onion Marmalade, Norfolk Pickle and Chilli Jam! If it is something ‘dippable’ you’re after, Emma recommends the White Balsamic vinegar from Fino – so yummy when paired with some of their olive oil and fresh bread!
And for when all bellies are full but a little snack is in order, these Christmas Pudding and Pigs in Blankets Kiln Roasted Mixed Nuts from Olives Et Al should do the trick.
So you lovely lot, that’s a wrap for the first half of our CWG Gift Guide for Christmas! We hope we have given you some fabulous ideas to place under the tree this year, and most importantly helped to relieve any stress you may have been feeling!
Keep an eye out for the second half where we’ll be exploring all things Handcrafted Homeware and Sumptuous Skincare alongside some wonderful Charity pieces, because when is there a better time to support our favourite charities than Christmas? It is the season for giving after all!
See you then!
CWG x