This list is less about big and flashy and stuff; instead think comfy, good for the planet, good for the soul. I am however letting my inner child run wild so they may not be good for the wallet! I’ve tried to add links where possible - thus underlined text.
Those who love (ethical) fashion
We have all recently had clothes altered at a local seamstress. Suddenly, outfits that lurked at the back of our cupboards are in constant wear because they actually fit us. Why not give a loved one a voucher that includes picking them up, taking them to the tailor and paying for the alteration? So often we want to do these things but never get around to it. Doing it with someone is a lovely day out and they get to walk away with a re-loved piece of clothing.
I discovered two (non-UK) woollen designers this year. Both are grounded in their sense of place and in beautiful design, at two price points. The Burel Factory shop in Porto, Portugal got me ridiculously excited by their fabulousness from clothing to wall coverings to furniture. Actually even their shop design was exciting! How interesting is the cushion shown at the end of the email?
The other knitwear company is Inis Mean, named after its location, an island off the West coast of Ireland. If I am EXTRA good please will someone tell Santa that this piece of absolute lushesness* would make me very happy indeed.
Animals and people who sleep
Baba Tree have the most beautiful dog beds as shown in the photo below (and other gorgeous baskets) and I love that they name the artist of each basket. What skill!
Talking of sleep, PJ’s seem to be a frequent Christmas present staple. How about something that really makes you smile? Irregular Sleep Pattern have fantastic bright of PJs, bed sheets and even dog beds. Made up here in Scotland with a lot of ethics, I would love something from them.
Foodies/ anyone who eats
If you want a REALLY good pickle - try these from Goat Rodeo Goods based near Stirling.
I use Bo Tree spices (based in Bridge of Earn) by preference and would love the whole winter collection. The flavour of real vanilla is quite obsessive. I also spotted this gorgeous Spice Mill which would be perfect when I don’t want to get the big mortar out.
How about some Burmieston Lamb? We have lots of mince, some rolled legs and gigot chops left. All 10% to get the freezer cleared.
Gardeners and flower lovers
I love this bouquet twister from Hanataba but really really love their starter floristry kit! (Hint hint)
For the adventurer who has everything
Membership of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. We went to one of their Inspiring People events recently and it was brilliant.
For the crafter/creative
Make Your Mark immersive drawing retreat with Dylan Gibson 24-26th April. Come and explore your creativity whether a complete beginner or a practiced professional. Get those creative juices flowing with laughter, focus and great food.
Wet-felting and wellness retreat with Wormit Woolies 25-27th March. Sauna, yoga and felt making including a ‘living’ rug, sauna hat and slippers.
Willow basket making retreat with Anna Liebmann. 2 day course at the end of Jan with one of Scotland’s foremost basket makers.
Some of our gorgeous undyed Jacob wool and/or rovings (you will need to email us about those as we haven’t got them sorted online yet)
For the health conscious (or those who just want to be warm…)
Membership or vouchers to use the Burmieston Club sauna from January 2026. Special offer for the first 10 people to sign up for membership.
Spring Equinox Day Retreat - a day of relaxation and physical focus, the next in our series of seasonal retreats held with Susan Grandfield (mindfulness teacher), Rachel Mitchell (yoga teacher) and Keesje (foodie).
The older I get, the more fun Christmas becomes. I am forgetting the stress and focusing on gratitude, people and animals I love, too much chocolate and very few emails. However you spend the festive season, leave some space for laughter!
Bugs (Big Hugs)
Keesje
*yes lushessness is an official word in the Keesje dictionary
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