This year we have two rules regarding Christmas shopping; we are only going to buy really interesting, original presents and we are not going to be shopping on the high street. This doesn't entirely rule out our favourite departments stores and supermarkets, as we will be shopping online.
Is it just us or does the thought of entering a shopping centre or trailing along Oxford Street, fill you with horror? We either want a pleasant, unique, shopping experience, preferably without hoards of people, or to buy online, in the privacy of our own home; ideally by an open fire, sipping a Baileys.
So over the next few weeks, in the run up to Christmas, we'll keep you informed of the best in online shopping and alternative shopping events, starting with what's up and coming in London's East End.
One of our favourite London Shopping streets, Columbia Road, will be holding their late night shopping evenings again this year. Every Wednesday in december, the sixty independent shops and galleries will be open from 5pm until 9pm. There are vintage shops, garden and antique shops, food and flower shops and a whole host of unique designer clothing and homeware, as well as lots of great pubs, cafes and restaurants to retire to at the end of the evening.
The East London Design Show is another annual event, which brings together the best of the UK's independent product, interior and jewellery designers. Running from the 3rd until the 6th of december at Shoreditch Town Hall, the show is a great place to pick up some truly original presents.
One of last years most successful mother and daughter christmas shopping trips was to the Bust magazine Craftacular Fair. Featuring over 60 crafters selling handmade accessories, clothing, jewellery and cards, teen daughter picked up some great, inexpensive individual gifts for her friends (and I managed to secretly buy her some too) One of the most unique and friendly events we have visited, we will definitely be going again this year.
More coming soon, but please let us know if there are any other events you think we should know about.
