Gift Big by Shopping Small: Beyond’s Ultimate Small Business Gift Guide 2020
We at Beyond Storage are encouraging everyone to shop small and local for their gifts this festive season in support of our small UK businesses!
We've put together the ultimate small business gift guide to help you on your small business gifting journey, pulling together a few fantastic shops and makers to inspire and celebrate the industrious creativity of the UK!
Not only do purchases mean the world to small business owners, you can expect personal touches and a level of care that can only be found when someone’s truly passionate about what they do.
We’ve specifically selected shops from the areas surrounding the Beyond Storage sites so that you have a taster of the wonderful local gift offerings. If, however, you’re not from these areas or they’re not quite what you’re looking for, Etsy and Not On The High Street are great places to start hunting for small business heroes.
It’s also worth checking out social media accounts to really appreciate the people behind the products, and don’t forget - ask around! The closer to home you can support, the better.
Happy conscious holiday gifting!
Food & Drink
The stomach is the way to… well, surely everyone’s heart? And if you can’t indulge at Christmas then when can you?!
LaFleurdeChocolat offers, quite frankly, the most beautiful chocolate treats you’ll ever lay eyes on. Owner/maker Jacqueline has over 20 years of experience as a pastry chef, working at both Michelin star and three rosette award-winning restaurants - not to mention winning numerous awards herself. Extra-special chocolates for extra special people.
You can also find them on their website, Instagram and Facebook!
Treat coffee dabblers and obsessives alike this festive season by introducing them to PerkulatteCoffee. Be it gift sets, sample packs, advent calendars or flavoured sugar spoons, these artisanal coffee roasters are masters of both quirky gifts and a good old cup of joe.
Check out their website, Instagram and Facebook page for more info and goodies!
Prints & Wall Art
Prints make great gifts: they come in all shapes, sizes, themes and styles, and are easy enough to ship to loved ones. So whether you’re adorning a man-cave or she-shed, a home office or nursery, get supporting your local artists, illustrators and graphic designers this season!
TwoLittleBirdsPrintCo offers “nursery wall art to make your little bird smile.” You’re able to personalise some of the prints with names for the perfect sentimental gift, while the illustrative style combined sophisticated colour palettes take room styling for little ones to the next level. And hey, who’s to say kids should have all the fun? We especially love the rust colours! Check out their facebook page here.
CreateandCompanyUK is another great shout if you’re looking to gift quality prints. They offer a huge range of styles, from simple line drawings to a cat in full Tudor dress (fantastic), and themes including space, cities and skylines, entertainment and photography. They're also on Instagram!
Homeware
Ceramics can make beautiful, family heirloom-worthy gifts to last a lifetime. Whether you’re after a novelty mug or one-of-a-kind handmade vase, this category gives you plenty of great gifting options.
FayeWellonCeramics’s rustic stoneware pottery is handmade using a reconditioned kick-wheel - an eco-friendly way to throw - in the artist’s home studio in Herefordshire. This shop’s high-quality offering doesn’t end at ceramics: they also have a great selection of candles, DIY pottery and wreath making kits and a range of beautifully crafted soap dishes complete with handmade soap by Wild Sage + Co. 
When it comes to StoneHouseGlow, think lego but chic. Using on-trend concrete and marbling effects, their products are both beautifully crafted and endearingly whimsical, featuring lego-style characters, dogs, letters and symbols - a perfect gift for the big kid who’s style conscious! Follow them on Instagram and Facebook for updates.
Home Fragrance
You can forget ‘warm vanilla’ and ‘red berries’ this Christmas. Candle offerings at the moment are out of the stratosphere when it comes to fragrances and styles. From rustic goodness to high-end luxury, the second coming of the candle is here and they’re a home-run when it comes to simple, thoughtful gifting.
P.s. If you thought this category was just for the ladies, think again - we’re here to tell you that the unbridled joy of candles is for everyone!
LavenderBloomUK specialise in 100% soy wax candles and melts decorated with petals from the seller’s own garden. This shop is the perfect example of how candles don’t have to be boring: hay, honey and amber you say? Wood sage and sea salt?! Go on then!
NickolaCandela’s sleek, matte black home fragrance products look as good as the work they do for our bees, giving £1 for every candle purchased to the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. Items include candles, reed diffusers, wax melts, room mists and more, not to mention giving home fragrance the eco-edge with reed diffuser refills. You can also find them at their website, on Instagram and on Facebook.
Jewellery & Accessories
From the ultimate meaningful gift to perfect little stocking fillers, jewellery and accessories for both men and women are really versatile options. We’ve found a few great sellers with lots of versatile options where you can’t go wrong.
WildWoodsJewellery offers beautifully tactile and earthy ceramic jewellery, making them the perfect keepsake for crafty and outdoorsy people alike. Artist and maker Charlotte Voaden takes inspiration from the landscape of West Wales, especially the woodland and hedgerows surrounding where she lives.
PGLasercraft has grown and grown since they first started on Etsy in 2019, and it’s not surprising! Their customisable range of keyrings, dog tags, signs and more make great stocking fillers and meaningful gifts to mark special occasions. They also take custom requests!
AvalancheAvenue makes dainty sterling silver and gold filled jewellery with heaps of sentimental charm, with nearly all of the designs being customisable for that extra special touch. Whether it’s necklaces or cufflinks you’re after, you’ll not go too far wrong here. Check out their website, Instagram and Facebook for even more inspiration!
And there we have it! 11 examples of small but mighty businesses that you can support this Christmas. With so many great independent shops out there, with a little bit of research, you can find some really great gifts!
Do you have any small businesses that are your go-to for presents, or even to treat yourself? We’d love to hear about them!
In the meantime, have you considered how you might benefit from self-storage? Whether you could do with your own office space or gym, require business or document storage, our state-of-the-art facilities across 5 beautiful sites will have the answer.
*We'd like to make it absolutely clear that no money or valuables were exchanged to put together this blog post - we have to support each other where we can! :)
Introducing you to our newest storage site... Ross-on-Wye!
Situated by the River Wye, our Beyond Storage facility in Ross-on-Wye is an idyllic location. We provide the residents of Ross-on-Wye and the surrounding areas with a bespoke storage solution; one that goes above and beyond. This is where Beyond Storage was born, on the family farm, so you can be sure that we have a great local knowledge of this town, and we’re now going to share it with you.
Here are a few things you should know about Ross-on-Wye, if you are to visit us:
CULTURE
St Mary’s Church
The spire of St. Mary’s church can be seen for miles upon entering this beautiful market town. As one of the largest churches in Herefordshire, it is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. Dating back to the 13th Century, this is a monument of heritage in Ross-on-Wye.
Address:
Church St,
Ross-on-Wye
HR9 5HN
Goodrich Castle
As one of the finest and best preserved of British castles, Goodrich Castle is an absolute must see when visiting Ross-on-Wye. Explore its fascinating history on one of the castle tours and exhibitions, relax in the delightful tea room and take in the sweeping views of the surrounding countryside from the battlements.
Opening Times:
Saturday 10:00 - 16:00
Sunday 10:00 - 16:00
FOOD & DRINK
No.3 Restaurant & Bar
Located at the top of Gloucester road, just before the Market place, No. 3 Restaurant & Bar in Ross-on-Wye is an easy location for a bite to eat. Offering fantastic food in a relaxed and comfortable environment, No.3 is a great option for lunch with the family or for a more intimate dinner affair.
Opening Times
Tuesday – Saturday
Lunch 12.00 pm to 2.30pm
Dinner 6.30pm to 9.00pm
The Moody Cow
Using the best local produce, The Moody Cow is a great place to enjoy some home-made food at a reasonable price. With friendly service and comfortable atmosphere, this pub is full of character and the perfect place to come with the family (including the dog!) after dropping off your belongings with us.
Opening Times
Wednesday-Saturday: 12.00 - 15.00 and 18.00 - 23.00
Sunday: 12.00 - 17.00
Introducing you to... Stratford
Beyond Storage offers the best storage solutions for our customers in Stratford. Whether you require self-storage due to moving home or renovation, or you are looking for storage solutions for your business, we can help. We understand that needing storage can be quite a timely decision, but we aim to make your experience with us as painless and as time effective as possible.
We want to go above and beyond offering you storage solutions, which is why we have put together a list of things to do in Stratford to infuse a bit of fun into your day with us!
CULTURE
Image: panoramio
Shakespeare’s Birthplace
For over 250 years, visitors have been welcome to go visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare. If you're visiting Beyond Storage to put your personal belongings into self-storage in Stratford, then make a special visit to the house where Shakespeare grew up, played and spent the first five years of married life with Anne Hathaway.
Opening Times:
Sut-Sun: 10am - 4pm
Anne Hathaway's Cottage & Gardens
Often referred to as the most romantic cottage in England, the thatched cottage of Anne Hathaway has been a hotspot for visitors for centuries. Enjoy the stunning gardens and the rooms where the young Shakespeare would have courted his future wife. Only a short distance from the town centre, Anne Hathaway’s house is a must for visitors coming to Stratford.
Opening Times:
Sut-Sun: 10am - 4pm
Tudor World
Another fun experience for the whole family is Tudor World in Stratford. Drop off your belongings at our beautiful storage facilities in Stratford and head over to Tudor World to experience what life was really like during Shakespeare’s time. See what it would have been like to dine at an Elizabethan dining table and rest in their extravagant four-poster beds or experience what life was like for the masses at the museum.
Opening Times:
Mon-Sun: 10.30am - 5.30pm
FOOD & DRINK
Image: chilternrailways
RSC Riverside Cafe
You’re in Shakespeare country! So, you might as well try out afternoon tea at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. On a lovely day, you can enjoy watching the river boats go by out on the terrace or sit inside and choose from their self-service menu. What a great way to relax after a day putting your stuff into storage.
Opening Times:
Open daily from 10am
Church Street Townhouse
Open all day, the Church Street Townhouse is a great place to take the family for any meal of the day. Stop off for breakfast before your appointment with us, or drop off your belongings at our storage facility in Stratford first and pop here for lunch!
Opening times:
Monday - Friday
Breakfast 8am - 11am
Lunch 12pm - 3pm
Dinner 5pm - 10pm
Saturday - Sunday
Breakfast 8am - 11am
Lunch 12pm - 5pm
Dinner 5pm - 10pm
Introducing you to... Leicester
At Beyond Storage we want to do just that; to go above and beyond storing your belongings. Although we are your storage experts in Leicester, we also make it our business to know the area inside out, to help you have a better experience with us.
If you’re making the trip to us, there’s no reason why it has to be a stressful ordeal. Therefore, we have created a list of some of the best things to do in this great City, from cultural experiences to eating out. Let us help you infuse some fun into your time with us!
Culture
National Space Centre
This one’s for the whole family. Have an ‘out of this world’ experience at the National Space Centre in Leicester, with 6 interactive galleries and 3D simulator experiences. It’s informative, interesting and fun! What better way to enjoy a day out with the kids?
Opening times:
Monday - Sunday: 10am - 5pm
Leicester Cathedral
Found in the heart of Leicester city centre, Leicester Cathedral can hardly be avoided when exploring the city. The church was built on the site of a Roman Temple and has been a part of the community and religious life since medieval times. The Cathedral is open to visits most days, so pop in for a visit when you’re in the area!
Opening times:
Monday – Saturday: 10.00am – 5.00pm
Sunday: 12.30pm – 2.30pm
The Wistow Maze
The winner of Leicestershire’s “Best Visitor Attraction” award, The Wistow Maze is a great day out with the kids. Drop your belongings off, or pick them up at Beyond Storage and go have fun exploring one of the country's largest maize mazes. With different themes that are forever changing, this won’t ever be a boring activity.
Opening times:
Monday - Sunday: 10am - 6pm
Food and Drink
The White Peacock
The White Peacock is an independently owned restaurant dedicated to serving affordable but luxurious food in the heart of Leicester. With excellent customer service, you’re bound to have a lovely dining experience. Sit back and relax after a hard day organising your storage and enjoy some great food.
Opening times:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday - Saturday: 12:00-15:00 – 17:30-21:45
Sunday : Open the last Sunday of each month for Brunch and Lunch from 11am
Dog & Gun
For a more traditional feel, why not try the Dog & Gun? Situated in the unspoilt village of Keyham, Dog & Gun is a cosy English pub offering you a relaxed environment to enjoy some great food. With and open fire and welcoming cosy area, you couldn’t ask for a more relaxing place to eat after a stressful day organising your belongings.
Opening times:
Monday: 17:00 - 23:00
Tuesday- Friday: 12:00 - 14:30, 17:00 - 23:00
Saturday: 12:00 - 23:30
Sunday: 12:00 - 17:00
Introducing you to... Hereford
As your storage experts in Hereford, we make it our business to know the local area so that you get the best possible experience with us. There are multiple reasons why someone might need storage facilities, from downsizing to welcoming a new addition to your family. But, instead of letting stress get the better of you, why not infuse some fun into the whole ordeal?
We have created a list of things to do and see in Hereford. You’re belongings are here, so you might as well explore some of the best things to do in the area!
Culture:
Image: lavenderaudio
Waterworks Museum
Completely run by volunteers, this museum really is a monument to community life. Based in Broomy Hill, Hereford, this museum is dedicated to bringing heritage to life, providing a valued learning resource for schools and bringing all groups of society together.
Opening times:
Every Tuesday: 11am - 4pm
Tuesday 25th October - Half-term Fun Day. Special trails and activities all over the Museum for all ages. Children free admission. Drinks available. 11am to 3pm.
Hereford Cathedral
This Medieval cathedral was governed by secular priests, with the earliest building, still remaining, being the 11th century bishop’s chapel. You can enjoy a guided tour of this spectacular cathedral, lasting for just over an hour.
Mappa Mundi and Chained Library exhibition:
21 March – 29 October 2016
Opening times:
Monday – Saturday 10 am – 5 pm
Food and Drink:
Image: goodfoodshops
The Three Counties Cider Shop
A short 30 minute drive away from Hereford, The Three Counties Cider Shop is perfect for those of you wanting to trial some local cider! Their shop offers up to 6 draught ciders that you can try before you make the choice to buy. A true cider lovers dream, you can even bring your own container to take home the delicious nectar.
Opening times:
Mon - Thu 10:00 - 17:30
Fri - Sat 10:00 - 18:00
Chase Distillery
We all know that needing storage can come at stressful times. Why not take the edge off by heading to Chase Distillery? Offering an extensive tasting experience of their locally produced vodkas, gin and liqueurs this distillery offers exclusive tours just 4 miles from Hereford. The expert guide will show you all of the Chase secrets from their traditional mashing, fermenting and distilling process to how every bottle is filled and sealed by hand.
Opening times:
Tuesday- Saturday: 9am – 5pm
Sunday – Monday: Closed
The Den Restaurant
Providing you with the best locally sourced ingredients right here in Hereford, The Den is a culinary experience not to be missed. With great food and even better service, you won’t be disappointed with their ever changing seasonal menus.
Opening times:
Monday - Saturday: 10am – 10pm
Sunday: 10am – 4pm
A Rule of Tum: Burger Shop
For something a bit less formal, why not try out A Rule of Tum Burger Shop. They are passionate about providing their customers with the best local and seasonal ingredients, making your burger a mouth watering experience. You can eat in for a quick bite or grab a takeaway on your way to your storage unit at Beyond Storage!
Opening times:
Monday-Saturday: 12:00 - 22:00
Sunday 12:00 - 20:00