Hand Made Presents

Throughout the year we have birthdays, anniversaries, get well gifts, thank you gifts and just because gifts that we buy.

I have been thinking about some of the presents I buy and who my money is going to support.  When I go to Big W and buy a present my money goes to support a big business.  Yes it employs many people, and is a great training ground for what work will be like for young people.  But I have been thinking about those small businesses, particularly those that hand make their goods.

I am a real sucker for hand made things.  So I thought I would do a little investigation and would list some of the local Bendigo businesses that hand make goodies at quite reasonable prices so if you are interested in supporting a local business for all your present buying.

Mandmade Soap is my friend Amanda's facebook page for the beautiful natural soaps that she makes.  She uses natural ingredients such as Olive Oil, Avocado oil, goats milk and Shea Butter.  And what is even better, they come in all sorts of decorative soaps including a lemon meringue pie!!

LA Scents is a great business, that also sells soap with various bases such as goats milk and hemp, they also do soy candle melts (my favourite things), and some beautiful lingerie.

The Art of Fabric is a designer of childrens and adult clothes here in Bendigo.  They do make custom pieces.

Glynn Phillip Jarrett Photography This man is a truly talented photographer.  He does special events, family photos and portraits. 

Rivari Art I was looking at Rivari Art's facebook page, and some of their stuff is just simply beautiful.  It's worth checking them out, I think I will definately be!!

Our House not only do they sell Fair trade products, but they sell some beautiful handmade goods made by people within the community.  I just recently for Christmas bought some clocks that had been made from records from there, they made a very funky gift indeed!!

Another way to pick up some fantastic hand made presents is by visiting the local artists market.  Castlemaine has one, once a month.  There is also the Bendigo Handmade market which also happens once a month.

So here are some funky ideas for presents throughout the year.  I really think we need to start supporting the small businesses that are cropping up, not only is it making a bit of money for someone, but it sends a message to big business that we aren't interested in cheaply made Chinese sweat shop stuff, instead we want to buy Australian, and support Australians.

Make sure you check some of these out, as I'm sure there are so many more!!

Lots of love

Sam
xxx