11 can't-go-wrong Christmas gifts from city independents
INDEPENDENT businesses across Sunderland are helping shoppers get in the festive spirit this Christmas, with an array of weird and wonderful gifts to suit any taste.
Shoppers across the globe have become more conscious of where they buy their wares since the pandemic, after the crisis really brought to light the importance of 'shopping local.'
This was especially true here in Sunderland and its surrounding areas, with restaurants such as Spice Empire and stores such as Black's Corner stepping up to support some of society's most vulnerable during the crisis.
Not only did this help us remember why we think so fondly of our independent businesses, but it also drove home the economic and societal benefits of shopping local whenever possible.
So, as shoppers across the region head out for their Christmas shopping this year, we've picked out some of the best gifts on offer from Sunderland's bustling independent scene...
A festive hamper from Fat Unicorn - £60
The Fat Unicorn deli has put together a range of Christmas hampers and cheese and meat boards this year. Serving up speciality wines, cheeses, meats and gins... what's not to like?!
A North Pole bouquet from Claudia Ann's Floral Design - Price varies
Flowers are always a good idea... especially at Christmas! Prepared by-hand and wrapped beautifully, this North Pole bouquet from the newly opened Claudia Ann's Floral Design in Herrington is perfect for any flower fan this festive season.
Festive cake box from Whipped Goods Co - Price varies
A Sunderland pint glass from Vaux Brewery - £8.50
Know someone who loves Sunderland as much as their ales? The team at the Vaux microbrewery have served up the ultimate present. Designed by local artist, Kathryn Robertson, the Vaux pint glass features some of Sunderland's most iconic buildings and a host of subtle Vaux references.
Miniature Poetic License gift pack - £21.95
From the Shard to Sunderland, the award-winning Poetic License distillery sells its boutique gins in bars and restaurants across the globe, as well as at its HQ in Roker, making its flavoursome gift sets the perfect stocking filler for any gin lover.
Red & White socks from A Love Supreme - £9.99
Searching for the perfect small gift for a Sunderland AFC fanatic this Christmas? Look no further! As well as these quintessential red and white striped socks, the A Love Supreme store in the shadow of the Stadium of Light has a wide range of SAFC merchandise and gifts to fill your stockings!
Bean to Bar chocolate selection from the Little Shop - Price varies
The Little Shop has proven a huge hit since opening its doors in the city's Culture Quarter in 2020. Stocking a wide range of craft chocolates, beers and coffees, the store's Bean to Bar chocolate will make the perfect gift for any cocoa lover this Christmas!
Hugo Boss teddy bear by Designer Childrenswear - £32.19
Your little one will always want this adorable cuddly friend by their side. Sweetly constructed from plush polyester fur, this Hugo Boss soft toy is decorated to a lovable rabbit style with a cute face and long ears. It is also available in other colours
Designer socks from Aphrodite -Price varies
Socks are the staple of any man's Christmas stocking and Aphrodite, based in Sunderland city centre, has something for everyone! Stocking the finest designer brands from around the globe, the store is the perfect place to pick up a fashionable gift this Christmas.
Flat cap from Master Debonaire - £24.99
Got a family member who always looks dapper? Master Debonair is the perfect place to pick up accessories and clothes for any occasion. This year, we've picked out their suave flat caps, but they have so much more in store...
A dog spa from Woofs 'n' Scruffs Washington! - Price varies
Last but not least... don't forget your furry friends this Christmas! The canine SPA Bath is a brand-new facility established at Woofs 'n' Scruffs Washington, offering everything from Himalayan salt spa bathing to mud baths and blueberry facials, and is the perfect present for your pooch this Christmas.
