I have been feeling the pinch on the my online boutique for the last month. To begin with I thought it was the non stop rain (my new Spring/Summer collection isn’t great under an umbrella), then the paranoia kicked in – maybe it was my business and it’s not as untouchable as I thought it was. However the fog has cleared and there is no doubt it is due the uncertainty in this current time. If you don’t know whether you are going on holiday you aren’t going to buy a beach dress!
Speaking to friends and small business owners, it’s clear that alot of businesses have been affected. So, today I want to draw your attention to a few great ones.. A few who are struggling through no fault of their own and they don’t deserve to go under! If it’s impossible to support them now as you can’t book a holiday/go on a retreat/sell your house, please book mark them for when it gets back to normal. And it will!!!
FOOD
I can personally vouch for Alex and her team that she is sure knows how show up at a party. The food, her staff and service are excellent and I now just need to to have a big party so I can use her.
William (his middle name is Archie) catered for my press launch. They were fantastic. Read more here and then pop in to their quarters for lunch in Fulham – yum!
Started by Hattie from Top Hat Catering and two pals, Eight is all natural family freezer food delivered to your door. Use TLM20 for 20% off your first order.
Artisan markets in and around London that sell local, ethical and sustainable products.
Kids chocolate with 75% less sugar. We are going to need as many things to bribe the kids with so atlas make it healthier whilst also supporting an independent rather than a giant!
CLINICS & WORKSHOPS
Kate has a membership where you are able to watch styling videos, read blogs and join live Q&A sessions where you can ask her all your questions; all these elements are designed to help you understand what colours will work for you, as well as the cuts, styles and fabrics that will flatter your body shape. This way you will be able to shop with knowledge, making the process more effective, less expensive and therefore increasing your self confidence
With clinics in the City, Islington, Canary Wharf and London Bridge – they specialises in sports injures and reaching your physical potential through osteopathy. Bookings for them are down 85% this week but they are offering video consultations so please contact them for more info.
TRAVEL
I am sure you didn’t miss my coverage of our wonderful trip to Meribel in December with Fish & Pips in one of their luxury chalets. So when I heard the news on Friday that the ski season was cutting short I really felt for them and all their wonderful & loyal workers. Skiing might be over for this year, but there will be a time to book a summer holiday (like Menorca, Mallorca, Croatia or Crete) – so please do it with these guys!
Ed and hi steam are my go for ideas of where to go on holiday. Efficient and informative, they are a great travel company so have a look for when you are going to next book.
Summer & Winters Private Travel
With experience in the 5* hospitality field, from hotels and private members clubs, to luxury chalets and villas, Julia really knows how to get the best property for your budget.
RETREATS
Pregnancy and hypnobirthing retreats
Covering retreats for post natal, menopause or with your young children, this is a wonderful business that will allow you to unwind and reconnect with or without your babe in tow.
CHILDCARE
With social gatherings and events closing, it’s hard for babysitting agencies, however if you do need extra help over the coming weeks or if you have to work, Likeminders are a national reputable company that will be able to help you out.
BOOKS AND STATIONARY
This is a wonderful business that you can upload photos straight from your albums dn they will be delivered to you or a loved on in a frame of your choosing. Perfect for Mothers Day or just to print out some of those fab photos you have been meaning to and never get around to doing it! Use LONDONMUMMY for 15% off
Ellie is a wonderful artist who creates ‘happy & sustainable’ things. She has had a few markets cancel and obviously trade shows are ominous so she would really like to boost her online business. Please take a look, I especially love her selection box of 40 cards for all occasions.
If you are stuck at home, this is a perfect time to order a personalised book for your little one or even a home bound Grandparent. I love the Birthday Boo!
APPAREL
A gorgeous lifestyle boutique on the Fulham Road that also sells online. Thankfully, as it would dreadful if anything happened to them – it’s one of my favourite shops!
You may not have a summer holiday planned at the moment, but when the weather turns in the UK and the sun comes out, please look at Team Beachwear for gorgeous matching swimwear for the whole family. Yes all of you can be in the same fabric swimwear!!
Dancing is free and a great thing to do in isolation so even if you can’t go to your class or group, you can buy your next dance outfit here! Great for kids and all the essentials like ballet shoes. Don’t buy items like these from Amazon PLEASE! This is the owners livelihood!
TECHNOLOGY
Ed & Charlotte took all my iPhone videos and curated them into DVDs (or on a memory stick if you prefer. Being at home is the perfect time to get things like this ordered and these guys re the best to do it – no human contact needed. (But when things are normal again, I urge you to let hem interview your family for a lifelong keepsake)
INTERIORS
At Holly Maclean each product is lovingly hand made by Holly Maclean from her London based studio. 10% of all profits will be donated to the Cambodian charity, School On A Mat. This charity provides free education to poor and remote villages within Cambodia
Another start up that I really want to see thrive is Jo Deakin and her beautiful fine bone china painted in charming vibrant colours. A lovely Spring gift especially Mothers Day or Easter!
Earth’s best natural household products in plastic-free and reusable packaging, delivered on repeat to your home. A perfect change to make in your home!
Please try and think and think of the small guys.
Remember, if you don’t use it, prepare to lose it! xxx
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