To say 2020 has been tough is an understatement. To say it’s been as tough as chewing a Cadbury’s toffee eclair that you found in your jacket pocket from 3 years ago is probably more apt. While the festive season will probably be very different this year if you are getting gifts, here are some ideas on how to find and support local businesses as well as a list of local businesses you can support.
Local gift idea: check your area’s Facebook group
If you’re looking for more ideas that are near you, check out your local Facebook group (I love these groups). There have been quite a few threads about local businesses to support. Clearly, I live in Joburg North because here are lists for Fourways and Parkhurst. You’ll find a local business to support and often other people have recommended them. If you’re willing to put in a bit more effort Instagram is a great spot to find new local businesses and provides a showcase for their offerings.
This person found a local crafter in Fourways to make a Baby Yoda. Check out your local Facebook group for people that crochet, knit or make unique gifts.
Local gift idea: get a family or pet portrait done by a South African artist
I wanted to get my friend pet portraits for Christmas last year, but left it way too late and ended up giving it to her after the hard lockdown ended. It was worth the wait. I also had my chinchilla and bunny done. Check out your local Facebook group or ask for recommendations. Always check the artist’s style and make sure it’s what you’re looking for. I went to Samantha Human and she is amazing!
A family portrait is also a nice gift. I haven’t personally had any done, but I really like Shannon Ullbricht’s work.
Local gift idea: plants & planters
You can never have too many plants and plants make great gifts. If you know the recipient doesn’t have a green thumb, opt for hardy water-wise plants like succulents. Spekboom is good for the environment, very hard to kill (I haven’t killed any of mine yet) and looks great, especially if you put it one of the planters below.
Moth Home: cotton products
Made by an all-female team using 100% South African grown materials, Moth Home offers cute bags, pouches and planters. The planters make great gifts (I bought one for a friend a few years ago) and are R190 each.
Calico Ceramics: homemade
If you have a plant person in your life, then you’ll know one can never have too many plant pots. This one is R350.
Saffron’s Garden Plant Club: a subscription box that includes a house plant
It also includes local goodies like a beaded key chain, cosmetic bag and more. Sam reviewed Saffron’s Garden Plan Club here. A box costs R450 and you can order one here.
Local gift idea: clothing, apparel or jewellery
Summerglen Swimwear: the only swimming costume you’ll ever need
Made from recycled ocean plastic and can be styled in different ways, so you can afford to splurge. R1199 but currently on sale for R950. #TreatYoSelf
Ilundi: handmade leather bags
They have a fantastic selection of leather bags. Coin purses start at about R250 but this handpainted sling bag is beautiful and costs R750.
Jewellery: put an (ear)ring on it
If you have the time, definitely check out Hello Pretty. A marketplace to shop for cool stuff from independent South African creatives. You’ll have to browse through quite a lot, but you’ll probably find something you’ll want to buy.
- Adjani uses glass to make earrings, necklaces and bracelets (Semicircle glass hoops, R420 & Glass triangle studs, R300)
- Turkey Dimple makes earrings out of Polymer clay (Earrings start at R100 for a pair)
- Nina Bosch creates fine porcelain jewellery (Savannah Earrings, R520)
Local gift idea: food & drink
This will appeal to everyone. And SA has an amazing range of delicious treats and goodies on offer.
Nougat: a mix of everything that is a lil bit fancy and a lot delicious
We have quite a few local nougat makers in South Africa and I really can’t decide which is best. Guess I’ll have to take one for the team and buy one of each, taste them and let you know.
- MaMere which employs 12 people
- Wedgewood which is still run on the same farm in the Drakensburg
- 1701 which is handmade and doesn’t contain preservatives
Jack Rabbit: chocolate, nougat, fudge and more
For R100 you get Nougat, Turkish delight Orbs, Blonde Chocolate Coated Malt Balls, Florentines, Honeycomb, Strawberry Sweeties, Fudge Bites and Fruit Caramels that is beautifully packaged.
Claro Vodka: micro batched vodka that is triple distilled
This award-winning vodka is produced in Joburg and smooth AF. R289 and you can buy a bottle (or bottles) here.
Noble Field: dairy free, no palm oil used & local chocolate
If you’re looking for vegan chocolate, Noble Field is the answer. At only R35 per slab plus a new dairy and gelatine free Turkish delight, you’ll find something delicious.
The Counter: three words – Peanut Butter Fudge
Made in small batches, you can choose from flavours like Cookies & Cream, White Chocolate, Coco Melt and Peanut Butter. Available at YuppieChef for R55.
Are there any local businesses that you would recommend? Let us know in the comments below or on social media.
