2021 Indie Xmas Gift Guide

November 26, 2021November 28, 2021 ~ somethinginthewayshemoves

I’m one of those people who gets started on the Xmas pressies. Thus I’m pretty much done already & ready to share some independent/small business gifts. If you’re not ready for Christmas chat yet, I’m sorry! Everyone else, let’s get to it.

If like me, you (or someone you love)find yourself exceptionally attached to pieces of music this one is for you. These beautiful visual representations of sound waves feel like a special present to me. I found MuckaStudio on Etsy, they created exactly what I wanted for a really reasonable price.

Robyn Boyle is a beautiful artist & person. I first found her art on Instagram, then got to know her & now consider her a friend. I have bought commissions as gifts & have her art hanging in my home. Why wouldn’t you want to buy a stunning piece of art from a wonderfully kind person.

Bonnie Bling is an old favourite. They are an independent Scottish brand who create quirky acrylic jewellery & accessories. I’ve been buying their Scottish centric wares for years. They use all recycled plastics, so they tick the ethical & desirable boxes. Buy some pretties.

Another artist that I discovered on Instagram is Edoniworks. They do gorgeous architectural drawings and take commissions. Their communication is great, quick turn around & reasonable pricing; 5 stars from me. I think a drawing of your forever home/wedding venue/favourite bar makes a really lovely gift. Someone in my life is getting one this year.

I’m never going to write a small business guide without including Wilde Mode*. They make the cutest, comfiest underwear I’ve worn and they are all round good eggs (their ethics are tip top). They have so many excellent xmassy products this year. Definitely the kind of thing I will be giving.

If feminist, inclusive & sometimes ridiculous are up your street you need to check out Crudely Drawn. Unique prints, mugs, tees & more can be found here. I can think of a few people who would love a Louis Theroux with boobs mugs and I really want some tidy hating bits for myself. I love quirky, cool gifts like this.

* I am a Wilde Mode brand ambassador, but I was not paid for this post.

Shop Small this Xmas…

November 23, 2020November 23, 2020 ~ somethinginthewayshemoves

I always enjoying supporting small business, but this year more than ever they need our custom. If you’re after for some beautifully different presents for your loved ones, look no further.

Illustrated by Charlie can cover two Xmas needs, gift & cards. Their fun prints would make a fab present and humorous take on festive cards are sure to make everyone smile.

Candles can be a passé as a gift, but not if you find some that are really special. ESH do exactly that. All 100% soy wax, handmade beautiful designs. I have my eye on those pillar stars.

Jessica Jumpers creates beautiful prints, portraits and totes. Her work often features two of my favourite things, ‘kitties & titties’. She also takes commission for portraits. Her unique style ensures any purchase would be a delightful gift.

Tote bag with ‘titties & kitties’ slogan Sms drawing of naked woman bending over to stroke a cat.

If African prints warm you heart, My Ankara Love is the place for you. These fabrics are divine. They stock everything from interiors to jewellery. I would die if I found any of their pieces under my tree.

Lamp, bangles, dress & cushion is African wax print fabrics

Hatch is a retail space in Glasgow that curates independent makers from throughout the UK. They have so many beautiful things that would make amazing gifts. If you’re local I definitely recommend you check them out.

Dried flower wreaths octopus plate, good posnt holder with ivy, stained glass robin window decorations

Curated by Girls have the most amazing feminist tees. All of which are already on my Xmas list. If you know a woman who takes no shit one of these would make the perfect present.

Women wearing t shirts with feminist slogans.

May all your troubles soon be gone…

December 23, 2019 ~ somethinginthewayshemoves

All the last minute tidying is complete. The presents are wrapped, the festive bedsheets are on & the fridge is stocked. My final festive manicure is complete & my outfit is all picked out. All that remains to be done is put my feet up for the evening before the madness begins.

Xmas tree with presents

I’m getting very excited about the big day. I’ll be at my sister’s & her little man is so into Xmas this year. I can FaceTime my other wee ones to see them open their pressies. Plus I’m a big kid and I love getting gifts too!

Xmas nail art. Candy cane stripe & holly

As happy as I am to have friends & family to share the season with, there’s always a hole in my Xmas. Being reminded of all the family fun I’ll never have with my own children is hard. Lots of people who have experienced loss struggle over Christmas. That’s why organisations like Sands & Miscarriage Association are so crucial. Sands work towards reducing still birth and neonatal death. They also provide support for those have lost babies. The Miscarriage Association aim to support those who have suffered miscarriage. They also strive to end the taboo nature of baby loss. Both do essential work with vulnerable people. If you can spare a little, a donation will allow them to continue their essential mission.

Xmas tree, heart decoration with text no foot is too small to leave van imprint in this world

However you spend Christmas I hope it will be safe, warm & filled with as much joy as you can muster. If you are missing someone this year I send you love.

Independent woman…

November 10, 2019November 10, 2019 ~ somethinginthewayshemoves

I know, I know, it’s too early for the C word. However, If like me you have a tonne of folk to buy for (& a budget to stick to) you have to get organised. Thus, I’m giving you my early bird gift guide.

I’m big into in supporting small business, so I’m recommending lots of awesome independent makers. Most of these people are tried & tested. If I am not already a satisfied customer, then I am hankering after one of their creations. No one is sponsoring this, just doing my bit for a community of people believe in.

Let’s get started with an old favourite, Bonnie Bling. I’ve been fan of this distinctly Scottish accessory brand for years. I seem to love every collection more than the last. Mhairi, the genius behind the bling has surpassed herself this year. She has created the best xmas decoration of all time. Yes, I’m looking at you Capaldi.

She’s also got you covered for all your Glasgow centric, politic & quirky gifts. I’d own everything she makes if I could. You definitely know someone who would be delighted to discover some of these gems under the tree.

A creator I have been admiring, but yet to buy from is the incredibly talented Coll Hamilton. His sketches of Glasgow architecture are so soft & welcoming. They would fit in any home. His portrait work is simply stunning. The emotion captured in these beautiful line drawings are exquisite. The perfect present for a discerning loved one.

Wilde Mode are a body positive, ethical company making hand made underwear. I am so proud to be one of their brand ambassadors*. Every item is handmade, every worker is paid a living wage & every design is awesome. These are the comfiest knickers I have ever put on my body. I love how inclusive this company is. You can find something cute for everyone here.

The Paper Press Ireland make the sassiest tees. Their slogans are hilarious. They have something amusing for all tastes as well as a cute twist on the traditional Christmas jumper. They’ll also custom print a design of your own, which is how I sourced my amazing kink.

If your searching for someone a little smaller Blade & Rose have got you covered. They make the most adorable little leggings with an animal friend on the bum. They have matching tops, socks, bibs & hoodies to complete the look. My nephew wears them all the time. The leggings are wool, so super cosy. Also flexible & perfect for a big carry on. This is the baba modelling some of his collection, but I buy them for loads of my little ones. I’m yet to receive a bad review from any of their Mamas.

I know there are loads of offers on the high street, but buying from an small business can help sustain someone’s dream. Plus, what is Santa’s workshop if not a co operative of independent makers?

* Use LyKer102019 for 20% off Wilde Mode orders.

Merry & Bright…

December 27, 2018 ~ somethinginthewayshemoves ~ 2 Comments

Merry Christmas, Darlings. However you celebrate I hope it was Merry & Bright (or at the very least safe).

I spent Christmas Day with the Toyboy’s family and all the days round about with mine. We had two little ones enjoying their very first Xmas and four bigger kiddies getting all hyped up about Santa. It’s a cliche, but Christmas really is better with children around.

I received lots of pretty presents & indulged in many delicious vegan treats (thank TB’s Mum & Sis). Of course I got spruced up for Mr Claus. I always got a fancy Christmas Day outfit when I was a kid & I’ve kept the tradition going in adulthood. This year I went for full on Sexy Fat Ballerina.

ly h Kerr, sexy fat ballerina

Bodysuit – Boohoo

Skirt – Ella

A plus size full length tutu is not actually that easy to come by. I ordered one on a whim and then fell for the idea of being a fat arsed prima ballerina. Unfortunately the first one never arrived. The second took much hunting down, but all that internet searching was worth it. This is a LOOK.

My clever sister somehow managed to predict my Xmas colour scheme and gave me the perfect accessories as part of my gift.

Next stacking rings ly h Kerr

Earrings & rings – Next

We’re now in that no man’s land between Xmas & Hogmanay. I intend to sleep lots, eat a tonne and cuddle little ones. I hope you have the opportunity to do the same.

Oh & Bronan loves his present. So much so that he barely moves off it. It’s a cat nip scratcher btw and god help anyone who even thinks of touching it.

Bronan Kerr

Early bird gift guide…

November 1, 2017November 12, 2017 ~ somethinginthewayshemoves ~ 1 Comment

I know I am getting into the Xmas chat a bit early & I apologise. I only do it because it takes me ages to get organised. I have loads of Dec birthdays & far off loved ones to send to on top of regular Xmas. The added complications of spoonie life means I’m usually already quietly Xmas shopping in October. I am certain there are others just like me out there, thus I thought some early gift guides might be useful.

I’m staring with this fairly random guide as I think most folk are a bit eclectic in their tastes. I find all those really specific guides a bit annoying because very few people fit in just one box. So, i have collated this bunch of cool, but varied gifts. I’m calling it, traditional eclectic, all the standard crimbo fare with some twists.

I may have mentioned before that christmas without velvet is just not on. Velvet clothes feel divine, so imagine how amazing this most tactile of fabrics would feel right next to your skin. Yup, velvet lingerie is definitely a sexy festive gift. Of course along with something to slink about in, something to slob in is also required at Xmas. Never underestimate the power of good jammies.

All good book shops, New Look, Plus size lingerie lounge, New Look, All good book shops,The literary gift company.

Hand in hand with nightwear go a really good book & this delightful cushion to lounge upon. I have become a bit of a cushion fanatic, but I think most book lovers would be pleased with this couch addition.

Everyone likes a bit fancy at Xmas time. Wether that be twinkling on your eyelids or quirky touches around the house.

eBay, Asda Home, Urban Decay (Heavy Metal).

Barry M, I want one of those, Pyro Pet, Ciate (Glitter Flip).

The rise of the christmas jumper in recent years has tickled my fancy. The sheer variety of festive knitwear means there is something to suit all tastes. Chocolate & jewellery are also Xmas staples. Again, if you look hard enough you can find some to please everyone.

Vegan Town, Marks & Spencer’s, Bonnie Bling.

As a kid I always had a holy advent calendar, so the idea of a vegan choc one really appeals to me. Making a statement with my accessories is so up my street, but sometimes I just want my baubles to look pretty. There’s a bit of each here.

Rebel Circis, Marks & Spencer’s, Fuck the Tories.

If my haste upsets you, I get it. If however you have a massive Xmas list that you need to get ahead of, have at it.

All I want for Christmas is….

December 10, 2016April 5, 2019 ~ somethinginthewayshemoves ~ 8 Comments

I am feeling a teenie bit clever this evening. In the space of a few hours I have completed all of my Christmas shopping without stepping a foot outside my front door. I’ve even managed to find the perfect treats for the trickiest of my beloveds. Worry not, if you’re still searching for out of box gift ideas, I have sourced some of the coolest wee trinkets around. Even better they’re all from Scottish independent traders.

My incredibly trendy little sister turned me on to Chouchou hoods. The creator of these beautiful hoods, Silvia Pellegrino, actually hails from Italy, but her line was born in Glasgow. With luxurious fabrics & limited runs on designs these hoods are worth paying a little extra for. My current favourite is the Hollywood Superstar. The bright orange faux fur is ideal for those who like to stand out in a crowd.

Hollywood Superstar, Chouchou Couture £200.

If you were hoping to go down the handmade route with breaking the bank,Twa Burds is the way to go. This Glasgow based vegan friendly artisan soap company’s products smell devine. I am a tiny bit obsessed with their Turkish delight bath salts & cannot wait to get my hands on their parma violet creation. Cruelty free & oh so pretty; any indie connessiouer will love unwrapping these smellies.

Parma Voilets glycerine soap, Twa Burds £3.50

Joe McNichol paints vibrant images of Glasgow & Scotland that totally capture the spirit of his chosen landscape. Being a Glasgow girl I particularly love his scenes of my city. This print depicting The House for an Art Lover & it’s surrounding greenery ticks all my boxes.

House for an Art Lover Print, Joe McNichol Art £20

His Etsy shop has an array of beautiful prints of his original paintings with something to suit all tastes. With prices from twenty quid you can’t go wrong.
Bonnie Bling has been one of my favourites forever. Their Scottish flavoured jewellery & accessories are both pretty and amusing. As regular readers will be aware I have a big squidgy spot for highland cattle, which puts their big cow necklace at the very top of my wish list. With interpretations of everything from scot’s slang to scot’s confections, Bonnie Bling is a must for the Caledonian cool kid in your life.

Bonnie Bling, Big Cow Necklace £35

Christmas isn’t complete without chocolate & Glasgow brand Vegan Burd ensures your animal loving friends aren’t left out. Their range of vegan versions of popular choc bars are available in selected Glasgow shops & can also be bought on Etsy. The clever names & total yum factor will a bring a smile to the faces of your compassionate compadres.

Yer Bound Tae, Vegan Burd £2.

Last, but not least is a new discovery; Flying Cheese Toastie. This quirky named outfit make stunning glass scultpures & accessories. The intricate detail on their pieces has captured my heart. This clever abbey rd sculpture is a fresh take on Beatles art.

Glass Sculpture,Flying Cheese Toastie £50

Each of their designs are swoon worthy and they also take custom orders for something more personal.

Even the fussiest of folk will be enchanted with these original Christmas gift ideas. Even better, you get to support local businesses. Two festive birds with one handcrafted stone.

Gonna find out who’s naughty or nice….

December 21, 2015December 21, 2015 ~ somethinginthewayshemoves ~ 6 Comments

I have a confession to make. I open presents. I just can not wait. If you give me a pressie of any description early, I’ll have it opened seconds after you leave. This year I was determined to behave & save all my gifts for the big day. That was until a mystery package arrived & I did what any girl would do; tore it open immediately. I genuinely didn’t realise it was a a Xmas present, but nevertheless I have been naughty again.

My darling friend Jenna has clearly been reading this blog as nestled inside that package was something I really, really wanted.

This pendant was made for me. Plath is one of literary heroes. I adore her words & let’s face it, these words could have been written about me. I haven’t taken it off since it arrived.

Once again I am reminded that my people are the best people. Thank you, Jenna. Big love.

Simply having a wonderful Christmas time….

December 27, 2014December 27, 2014 ~ somethinginthewayshemoves

Merry Christmas!
I hope you all had a wonderful time. It’s been a bumper yultide for me & mine, loads of food, fizz, family & friends. I love the festive season & the opportunities it provides to let those you love know how much they mean to you. By the wonder of facetime I even got to watch my niece open her presents in brisbane, nothing can beat the look on her face as she discovers she’s been given all the things she’s been hoping for.

Talking of presents, I have also been a very lucky girl. My family & friends proved once again how well they know me by buying me the perfect gifts. There are a lot of ticks on my wish list & I am one happy lady.

First from my wish list was an early xmas treat from the lovely people at Bonmarche. As you know I desperately wanted something gorgeous & velvet to adorn myself in, this dress was exactly right. The midnight blue colour is so perfect, the fabric so soft & the fit oh so flattering. I felt amazing in this dress.

I have actually never shopped at Bonmarche before, but had heard good things, about their plus size dresses in particular. After perusing their website I suspect that some of their ranges are aimed at a slighter more mature woman. Having said that I saw several dresses that I would rock and some faux fur jackets that are to die for. Considering I not only looked super sexy in this dress, but it was also as comfortable as my birthday suit, I will definitely be adding the Bonmarche website to my bookmarks.

Bonmarche also sent me some pretty accessories, which will be featuring in another excellent post incredibly soon.

Another slightly early xmas present arrived in a suspiciously shoe box shaped package. Sure enough when I tore it open nestled inside were the most beautiful shoes ever created. Someone clearly read this blog & liked the idea of having me at their beck and call. I am madly in love with these beauties. Should they ever change the law, I may well marry them.

Irregular Choice

Last, but not least my darling sister got me this shiny & sleek clutch that she spied on my wish list. Lauren also cooked us all a delicious Christmas dinner, including the cutest dessert ever amp; clearly my little sis has been hiding her culinary skills. Now that her secret’s out she can expect me over for dinner much more often.

Asos

All of my people gave me marvellous pressies & I appreciate every single one. However, the finest thing in my life is undoubtedly belonging to my warm, loyal & hilarious family. The fact that I’ve been able to add to that family with my magnificent friends probably makes me more fortunate than I deserve to be. So, I’ll leave you with some snaps of our Christmas because I believe this is what it’s all about.