Gift Guides

Ok, women is quite general but this guide is packed so I am sure you will be able to find a present for your fussy sister or your mother in law who doesn’t need anything. I am really trying to buy all my Christmas Presents this year from small businesses – so if Amazon is your thing – this may not be your bag, but I urge you – please just have a look. When you buy from a small business, there is actually someone at the end who sees your order and you make a real difference to!

Melamine Camel Tray from Aurina 

If you love a simple animal print, you will love Aurina’s collection. I particularly like her lobsters and camels and the fact that it is melamine – nice prints whilst also being smash proud!

Black Pom Pom Scarf from Raindrops & Roses 

I love the eager gated size of the pom noms and the simplicity of one colour. When all around you is patterned, logo’s and multicoloured, it’s a delight to see a basic that will go with everything!

Long Merino Tee from Love My Smalls 

With the sudden drop in temperature a thermal vest made from 100& merino wool from NZ will be gratefully received. Soft, non scratchy and even has thumb hole to keep your wrist and hands warm. I love mine!

Lotus Tablecloth from The Mews Fabrics

This is top of my list.. Annabel has 3 different pink tablecloths but I think this Lotus one is for me!

Love Sweater for Save The Children at The FMLY Store

Preorder one of Selfish Mothers fabulous Christmas sweatshirts and all profits go to Save The Children. You can’t not, can you?

Pink & Grey Lambswool Scarf from Gabrielle Vary Knitwear 

Gabrielle’s scarves, shawls and ponchos are dreamy. She puts wonderful colours together with interesting details such as this geometrical middle.

Navy Striped T Shirt from Absolutely Bear 

Ethically sourced and well cut, this is a classic long sleeved T shirt that would please the most discerning of unwrappers.

Palash Lamshade from Ashoka Designs 

The hardest part is deciding which design to go for as all these Indian block printed fabrics are divine.  Once you have, you have you can choose your size and then even buy a table lamp to go with it!  I love the dark pink flower of this Palash print.

Fuchsia Zig Zag Ikat Cushion from Kashaan 

If this is too bright, check out the other colours and patterns. I covet every cushion they sell!

Metallic Rainbow Stripe Sweater from Bricks & Stitches 

This will certainly bring a smile to the recipient on Christmas morning. Perfect all year round in universally flattering navy blue.

Cashmere Red Leopard Wrist Warmers from The Meek Boutique 

I love the colourway of these cashmere mittens.  Move over brown leopard, it’s all about orange here on in!

Pink & Turquoise Cup & Saucer from Jo Deakin Fine China 

For any tea lover, update their morning cuppa with the beautiful designs on the delicate cups and saucers of innovative designer Jo Deakin.

Celestial Charm Hoops From The Alex Edit

These pretty gold hoops are so pretty and sure to bring the wearer good luck!

The Moggy Bag from Gift Pop 

Leopard print and red trim – what’s not to love? The size is great too for such a good price (£40)

9k Gold Rectangular Hoop Earrings from Baroque Rocks 

If you are wanting to buy a serious present (yes hello, this is why your wife just forwarded this email) go for GOLD with these original rectangular earrings from the discerning people at Baroque Rocks.

Mavala Wellness Nourishing Set 

Every year I need a good break from gel nails and so i am using this to strengthen a bit. Seems to be working and a cute box too – perfect for a stocking!

Fuchsia Sleeved Card Box from Bridge In The Box 

For any stylish bridge player or card lover, head over to Bridge In The Box for an array of wonderful cards, scorers and pens.

Personal Styling Voucher with Claire McNestry 

1.5 hours with Claire and I guarantee you will have finish on a high, full of knowledge and renewed confidence. Buy a personal styling gift voucher and learn what colours, styles and where there are gaps in your wardrobe and where to shop.

Gold & Silver Ball Point Bracelet from TLM Edit 

As the fashion at the moment is ablate mixing your metals, this bracelet will bridge the gap so you can wear silver and gold together. Solid and made to last, this is a really lovely gift for someone who likes bracelet stacking!

Stork Navy Kimono from One Hundred Stars

I couldn’t believe this beautiful kimono was only £39. It arrived beautifully packaged and would make very exotic present for someone who wants to up their loungewear game.

Handy Heater from JML Direct

Possibly the handiest gadget I own. I plug it in next to my desk and it keeps the temperature at a perfect temp. If you have someone who is always cold – get them one of these!

Candy Stripe Knicker Box from Stripe & Stare

Whether you want plain, hearts, classic, stripes or even the pack named by the Delevignes for The Lady Garden campaign – these knickers are super comfy and are fast becoming best sellers amongst busy London mums.

Pink Gin from The English Drinks Company

Wow – they sent me a sample (sadly a tiny bottle) and it is good. So good, I could have drunk it straight but that could be verging on vulgar so I mixed it with tonic. A great present for any gin lover.

Large Rainbow Star Blanket from Lala & Bea

This hand-loomed blanket is lovingly made in Wales using traditional weaving techniques with a smart grey background and pops of fun colour with our rainbow-striped detail. Finished with a clean, blanket-stitched edge. Perfect for movie nights, a reading corner or a cosy addition to dress your bed with an injection of colour.

Large Star Bracelet from Bella Jane Jewellery

A lovely classic sterling silver 5mm ball bead bracelet with large sterling silver puff star charm and signature Bella Jane heart tag.

Hope this helps – email me if you think there are some brands or items that would fit well!

Lots of love

Lucinda x

It’s pretty easy buying for the kids – it’s the other half that always poses the question ‘does he really want it/need it/like it’ and there is probably a no in there – especially if it is expensive. Mine dislikes me spending too much on his presents, although this year he has asked for Hermes tie. Alright then, that will be bought in the sales so don’t hold out much hope! So, my debut guide for this year –  starting with men… in all their different forms – here we go…

The Summerton Club

Give Dad a a monthly whisky prescription from The Summerton Club. They send beautifully-aged bottles of delight to their members every month. They focus on the main three of Whiskies (Bourbon, Whiskey, Whisky), Brandies (Armagnac, Cognac, Grappa) and Rums (Cachaça, Rum, Rhum, Ron) so if you have a whisky lover – this would make a great present.

Little Peach Portraits

A silhouette is timeless and contemporary. Upload your profile shots to Pia from Little Peach Portraits, choose the size and colour – and voila – all done.

Tom Lane Crew Neck 

I love the classic shape and every day wearable colours of Tom Lane’s cashmere and lambswool collections. You can’t go wrong with a crew neck jumper (especially in navy!)

A Star Is Born Soundtrack 

I defy anyone not to like this soundtrack. Whatever your preference, I genuinely believe you will like this. It’s become our family film/our ‘song’ (Always Remember Us This Way…) and will be a firm favourite for dinner parties (of which we have none planned) 😉

Tonder & Tonder

Luxury Bed Linen. Not something I can justify buying myself – but oh yes, what a great present for your other half and then you get to enjoy it too!  The styles are classic so would get the nod from the blue team, it is excellent value for the quality and run by such a lovely lady, I want everyone to buy linen from their the whole time!

Big Cat Clothing 

If you are lucky enough to be away this Christmas 0 upgrade their swimmers with some seaweed patterned trunks. Excellent quality without the price tag, they will love these fun swimming trunks.

Bottle Bazaar

Personalise a bottle of top quality wine or fizz. I cannot wait to crack this one open!

Thomas Fudge

As well as first class florentine’s their collection of savoury biscuits is the perfect gift for a cheese lover!

Pandora’s Boxers

Not only are the style, pattern and fit spot on the packaging makes me want to order one a week so I can collect the gorgeous bags they come in!

Wicket Ideas

If you have a sports lover in your midst why not get them some sporting memorabilia to dot around the house?

James Lucy Gaucho Watch Strap

Inspired by the belts worn by Gauchos in Argentina, and now worn casually all over the world, the ‘Gaucho Straps’ are the very first of their kind to be seen and are unique to James Lucy. He also sell very smart faces and a profit from every sale goes to a charity of your choice. Such a wonderful product and a great cause.

Manyatta Belts

With a percentage of profits going to the Tusk Charity, these belts made by the Masai add a lovely pop of colour to a pair of chinos or jeans. Doing good whilst looking cool – that’s a Christmas combination! He also does colours for various regiments, schools and clubs so have a look at the website for more inspiration.

Brown & Forrest Hamper

I can personally vouch that every item I received in my hamper (I didn’t want to share) was so delicious. Beautifully presented in a cool box, choose from many of their different hampers and price ranges. If you want to make it original and have food appreciater – they will love receiving this.

Initially London

Update their sporting equipment that they no doubt have since school. This is a sports bag that fits in most lockers AND you can personalise it!

Indigo Island

I am a huge fan of these 100% cotton shirts with their fun but not too over the top patterns.

Chilly Bottle 

Keeps hot hot and cold cold and doesn’t drip. Perfect to roll around in the sports bag (fora week!)

Proviz Fleece Lined Reflective Jacket 

If you worry about them cycling or running in the dark – put your mind at ease with this highly reflective and waterproof jacket that no bus will be able to miss!

Portraits by Samuel Francis 

Why not just go for gold and commission the kids portraits with the incredible Sam Francis who can  pop over, sketch the kids, finish at home and deliver. Now that WOULD be a lovely Christmas present.

Nothing for you here? (Gawd your other half must be really fussy…. ) Why don’t you reread the mens or Grandpa’s guid from last year!

Happy Monday!

Love

Lucinda x

How can January drag on forever and February be over before I could say ‘another celebration’. This month (Sunday 11th March) is Mothers Day. I actually think this is a ploy to cause more stress to husbands who have only just got over Valentine’s day and now they have to buy something on behalf of the kids (if the kids are under 10!)

Handpicked by Kate works directly with a collection of boutique, high quality and unique brands to bring you a range of exquisite homeware pieces and beautiful gifts. Kate’s desire is to provide an extra platform for these superb brands which have caught her eye along the way. (A girl after my own heart – this is my mission for TLM Edit!)

Below is a gorgeous selection of possibilities that Kate has compiled (and I added a few things that I really liked – there was so much choice on her website!)

So have a peruse, take your pick and press forward!

If they understandably aren’t so willing give them a break and buy something for your own mother or a special mother figure in your own life.

Thank you Kate – take it away…

The London Mummy

An edit for those busy London mummies who are forever rushing around the city from one activity to the next. The slogan clutch is perfect for popping your keys, card and a lip balm in whilst the statement hammered rose gold studs add a relaxed touch of glamour to
any outfit. The star necklace is a sparkly piece perfect for taking you from day to night and the blue and white nautical bracelet is perfect for adding some sunshine to your school run.

1. J’adore Clutch Bag – £32.99

2. Nautical Bracelet £46

3. Chora Rose Gold Earrings – £75

4. Soho Star Necklace £65

The Country Mummy

2018 is all about self-care and I wanted to curate a collection of pampering and spoiling gifts to ensure your mummy gets the me time and self-care she deserves. Bath salts, cashmere bed socks, stylish fedoras and a splash of colour with the queen bee tassel earrings.

1. Orange Cedarwood Body Scrub – £19.99

2. Cashmere Bed socks – £20

3. Lexi Berry £135

4. Queen Bee Tassel Earrings – £38

The Animal Lover

They say diamonds are a girls best friend, I say dachshunds are! For those mummies, like me, who adore their loyal companions then here is a mini edit of my favourite gifts from one animal lover to another.

1. Red Cowhide Belt – from £30

2. Flamingo Print – £85

3. Dachshund Duo Print – from £28

4. Leopard Print Doormat – £24.99

The Beach Goer

For those mummies who are forever dreaming of their next hot holiday and are far more suited to living in sandals than muddy wellies then this edit is for them. Hand beaded flamingo bags, versatile straw baskets for piling all the towels into, picnic blankets for everyone to sprawl on and the perfect beachwear accessory.

1. Beaded Flamingo Clutch Bag – £95

2. Pineapple PJ’s £120 (I would wear this on the beach – too good to stay at home in!)

3. Pink Handle Straw Basket – £29.99

4. Rainbow Stripe Picnic Blanket – £68

The Homewares Addict

For those mums who have a keen eye for design and forever buying new bits for the home. We adore these silk ikat cushions and can be used as scatter cushions on the bed or on their favourite reading chair. The cowhide storage basket is one of our most popular and such a versatile piece, ideal for magazines, spare loo rolls, dog leads you name it! The cactus lamp and pineapple bookends are so unique and a fab present for the mummy who has it all!

1. Ikat Cushion – £68

2. Cowhide Storage Basket – £125

3. Neon Cactus Lamp – £50

4. Oushak Dhurrie Rug £330

The Chef

For the talented mummy who is also known for whipping up a delicious treat or two in the kitchen a la Mary Berry then this edit is for them. Treat them to a beautiful rattan basket for freshly baked goodies or personalised salad bowl. You can also include your own personal message on the reverse of the bowl, a truly thoughtful gift.

1. White Rattan Bread Basket – £28

2. Woven Pink Bowl – £49

3. Personalised Salad Bowl – from £59

4. The Boss Pocket Notebook £15

This list makes me want to smile.  Thank you Kate for having such a wonderful eye and for al the small businesses you are supporting!!

HandpickedByKate.com

Since starting The London Mummy (summer 2016), I have never written a Valentine’s post. Weird huh. No, it’s not that I am getting more romantic in my old age, it’s because I finally have time to breathe a bit more and can do some advance planning for once. So, what was the first event to schedule in – a Valentine’s Gift Guide!!!

By the way, if you are only doing a card (and yes, you do have to) Etsy have some really funny ones (and very cheeky) This one made me chuckle!

We don’t really exchange gifts on Valentine’s Day… actually what I mean is – I never buy Mr R a present (he has a January birthday, so with that and Christmas it can gets a bit OTT) and I have never really cared about being on the receiving end of Chocolates or Roses. However, with the media and internet and do many small businesses – there is no escaping the pretty and unusual gifts that are geared towards Valentine’s Day.

Heart Trainers £55 Aldo

On my last shopping trip, I walked past Aldo and they had a gorgeous display for Valentine’s Day. Incredible high heels with hearts all over them, but these really caught my eye.

Two Sided Red and Black Bucket Bag with Leopard Print Detachable Handle £40

Wearing red, use the black side of the bucket bag, wearing black, add a splash of red to your outfit. A fun versatile bag with a detachable strap – so you can chop and change your look.

You’re My Lobster Biscuit Box £18.50 Biscuiteers

Lobsters mate forever so what better way than displaying your love in an uncheesy way with this biscuit from Biscuiteers. The only problem is that it is too good to eat!

Black, White & Red Trimmed Heart Back T Shirt £40 TLM Edit

Luckily I did a stock take before Valentine’s Day as bought these before Christmas and forgot about them. How could I? Not only a fun nod to Valentine’s Day, they are a gorgeous update on the classic Breton T Shirt that will still be here this summer!

Love Story Scented Candle £32 Tussie Mussie

This is one of my favourite candle, handmade by Natasha in her kitchen.  Beautifully packaged and smells even lovelier.

Gold Dipped Heart Necklace £18

ou can’t go wrong with a gold necklace with delicate hearts on it, can you?

Colour Pop Messenger Bag £55

Only the brave will be able to pull off this bright colour pop messenger bag, but there is no doubt that it would make your outfit. Lovely Spring colours too.

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream £70

If I was bought this, i would be very happy. Over my usual budget but I know it is luscious from the testers they generously hand out with a purchase.

Velvet Cat Slippers £35 Tooka Ltd

Started by a lovely mother who wanted to run a little business from home, these cat slippers are so cute and certainly a bit different.

Charlie Quilted Backpack £135 Fact + Fiction

I can vouch for this backpack being an absolute God send. Not only is it lightweight and spacious, the sections have been well thought out – the peerage area for your shoes underneath being my favourite.

Premier Cru Eye Cream £49 Caudalie

Since using this, I look about 20. Ok, not really but it is my preferred eye cream as light enough not to drag but nourishing enough to brighten and moisturise.

Red Chiffon Kimono £45

Over a vest and jeans or over a bikini – chiffon Kimono’s are coming so why not get ahead with this gorgeous red floral chiffon one.

Tory Burch Signature Perfume £48

Everything Tory touches turns to gold and this smell is no exception.

Grace Chemise Slip £130 Parasol Rose

This London based business has nailed the art of undressing solutions. I love this slip as it could also be worn as a dress alone, nightie or under a dress as a slip.

Hope this has given you a few ideas to push in the direction of the person who may be buying! If not, treat yourself – you deserve it!

Oh, and…

xx

Wow, this is a biggy! Apologies that it is all in one, but personally I started to bore myself with the individual gift guides I did last year, especially after the backlash of my Nanny/Au Pair Gift Guide – can you remember? Gawd I was only suggesting a few ideas and a few nannies and au pairs were not happy with my suggestions. SORRY! Anyway, kids won’t see this so they can’t complain!!

BABIES

Grey Horse Romper from Bumble & Ava £39

The colours and design on this romper are so unusual. I love the velvet trim too. Super smart.

Rabbit Night Light from Djeco £37

This beats a snow globe from the Piccadilly Tourist shops! It has a nightlight too so sure t keep your little one calm and transfixed.

Al Paca Hat from Oeuf NYC £57

Be warned, your baby would be coo’ed at in the street and potentially everyone would want to stroke them!!

Ugly Duckling Music Toy from Elodie Details £27

This beats a mobile from the high street. I’m always a sucker for a bit of netting and it’s not often you can have white around a weaning baby, but when it is out of touch – go to town!

Pink Heart Collared Sleeping Bag from Willa & The Bear £55

Peter Pan eat your heart out! This is adorable. I wouldn’t ever take it off them. Also comes in dusty blue.

GIRLS 

Bundle Bed £199

Whenever one of the kids has to sleep on our bedroom floor, we get out the bundle bed (whilst breaking up the fight over whose turn it it) Easy to transport, unpack, wash and most importantly very comfortable – it is great for sleep overs and camping. We love ours!!

Wildlife Bumper Pack by Shrinkles £11

Can you remember putting old crisp packets in the oven and watching them shrink down? Was such a thrill. Well Shrinkles do this properly and you can buy all sorts of themes and then make them into key rings, clips and badges to name a few. A great activity for the day after Boxing Day!

Unicorn Hair Clips from Glammrags £8

How cute are these. These would go down well in a lot of young girls stocking. Glammrags also have a huge range of girly hair and jewellery goodies.  The cat head bands are also darn brilliant.

Curiosity Box Subscription 

Perfect for inquisitive 6-11 year olds each monthly box has a different theme to support your childs learning. Help for parents to help your kids too so you won’t be shown up!

Pom Pom & Tassel Key Ring £14 from TLM Edit

Perfect to liven up that book bag…  Just don’t nick it!

Glitter Lips from Harry & Holly £12.50

Now, doesn’t this look fun. Perfect for a blossoming teen who dopant warrant a trip to Soace NK quite yet. Even if you end up using it yourself.  Harry & Holly is a great website for your teen or tween girl btw…

‘Mummy’ Pouches from Mimosa Baby £15

Called Mummy but I know a few little ladies who would love one of these to hold all their hair clips! Choose your letter and Liberty fabric… Also comes in Natural!

Chat Malo -Le Petit Hibou £55

These sweatshirts that are affiliated with the beautiful New Kings Road shop Cuckoo Hibou are understated and very cool.  In navy and grey.

Puff Sleeve Dress from Coco Belle £38

Coco Belle is the only place I will go for my (my daughters) smocked dresses. They are all so beautiful and the fabrics and colours are lovely. The website is set out so well so you can shop by age. This is under age 6 but be quick as they don’t hang around for long – not at that price!

Crossley Gold & Pink Record Player £89

Ok, not sure I would even know where to find a vinyl record that mu daughter would want to play, but this is such a gorgeous set, if you are a hip family who does have a selection of vinyls – this would be mega – and she could carry it around.

BOYS

Gravity Powered Speed Track from £20

Started by husband and wife team, this is a genius race track that doesn’t require batteries and you can take anywhere. We have a double track and it is great to have races on the sitting room floor without having to build it!!!

Mega Fort Kit by Stick Lets £36

If your kids are into make dens – these will give you piece of mind. Secure the sticks together with these and the den will be as sturdy as a rock!

Emperor Pyjamas from Three North Stars £26.95

As a mum of three boys who wasn’t enamoured by cartoon print or legging style pyjamas that are all over the high street, Kim decided to design and make her own. Inspired by the pyjamas that she wore when growing up in Laos, the cotton linen mix is super soft and there are no fiddly buttons. I love them! Also come in blue and cream.

Large Blue Star Personalised Pencil Case from Little Letterman £15

Love a star and this good sized pencil case will be able to house  both the protractor and calculator (joke, not sure how they manage without a calculator!)

52 Dates from Roll Out History £20

Border your kids room with this wonderful informative self adhesive history timeline.  For more info read my review here.

Budding Builder Box from Kid K’Nex £27.99

Totally ageless, this mega box of tricks keeps my 3-7 year olds very happy. Enough bits to make many funny combination of ‘aliens’ – it is one box that will be sticking around for a long time! Great for fine motor skills and imagination too.

Socker Boppers from Five Boys Clothing £10

It was hard to choose one gift off this website as it is packed with cloths and gifts for boys. Well worth a look if you want a one stop shop.

Star Wash Bag from Catapult Clothing £20

Made from up cycled  bouncy castle fabric, this wash bag is bright, fun and boy proof. Catapult also sells gorgeous T Shirts…

Jackson Rocket Print Sweat from Angel & Rocket £25

Their signature sweat with the reflective Rocket logo. Perfect for any busy boy as it is super soft and allows my busy boy to move around like a box of frogs without feeling restricted.

Personalised Comic Hero Print from Wall Circus £36

Bright and fun, would be a great addition to any boys bedroom.

Lace Up Suede Desert Boots from Willa Beans £34

You can also buy extra bright colour laces for £1.50!

Oarsum Batgammon Board. £95

Handmade in England, this is a unique backgammon set with a naval twist. Made from recycled sailcloth.

Foooty Ball Kit from Three Boys Rock £11.95

Is it a football? A rugby ball? A frisbee? Or more?
The answer is all of the above. Connect the templates together to create a myriad of alternatives. Easy to connect together, this Dutch concept is a sure winner for holidays, trips to the park and more. Available in blue, red, green and yellow.

Earphone Wrap Wristband £19

The unique patented design of Wraps means you can now wear your earphones on your wrist when you’re not using them – ideal for cycling to and from the gym, heading out for the day and for anyone who doesn’t carry a handbag!

Pineapple Trunks from Big Cat Clothing £30

I couldn’t decide which to include as there are so many funky prints. Really reasonable and they have matching Dad ones!

There must be something in here that you haven’t seen before? If there is a new website or product you think London Mummy readers would like, please let me know!

Lots of love

Lucinda xx