As we get closer to the big day we start to panic about all those little details. But before you get carried away with who will collect Grandma and who's bringing the brandy butter, those stockings will need filling.
This job has become one of the more fun parts of Christmas shopping and it's not just for the kids. We've got customers buying fillers for their adult children, for spouses and even for their parents. It's so much more relaxing treasure hunting for those little gift that will bring a smile to the recipients face without the stress of it being the 'perfect' present.
So here's our compilation of the ultimate, fool-proof stocking filler categories!
1. Food
This one is the most useful and is pretty much foolproof. They will almost definitely try it and the gift wont be big enough to be a waste of food if it doesn't suit their palate.
Our little bags of sweets have been so popular that we now have Christmas ones in. Complete with jelly gingerbread people and marshmallow snowflakes these are in perfect stocking sized (biodegradable) packets. Don't panic if sweets, boozy lollies and hot chocolate stirrers aren't their thing though, Delicious Dauntsey have another option for those that don't have a sweet tooth. They have stocked us up with their lovely (and quite intriguing) chutneys, including some scrumptious sounding festive varieties. Perfect to go with all the cheese and crackers that Christmas brings, and made locally in a village just outside of Chippenham.
2. Affordable Jewellery
Rachel of That Wild Feeling has been brightening up our shop with her beautiful bracelets. Hand made with crystals which feel wonderfully tactile, they have already proved popular and are sure to be a winner.
If you're looking for something a little bit fun and equally as colourful then come and have a look in-store at the wonderfully quirky items hand made my both March makes and Life Is Better In Colour. Both of these traders aim to make affordable accessories which start from as little as £1.50 and are almost all under a tenner. Your wallet will be pleased!
3. The Kids
If you are looking for something a little more eco-friendly to fill the children's stockings then look no further than Cotton Twist. These little craft kits provide a fun task for kids to do whilst you concentrate on those crispy yet fluffy roast potatoes.
Another great option are the mini playsets from Play Press. Whether they want to be an archaeologist in Egypt, a vet, or a dragon teacher with the Zog set, these kits are sure to provide a few hours of imaginative play.
4. The Home
Yeh ok, this one seems difficult as a filler. That beautiful print they would love would need a bloody big stocking! So how about fold-able art in the form of one of our tea towels? We are lucky enough to have 3 very different UK based artists supplying us with their frame-worthy tea towels. Art that's also useful!
If you're worried they may think you are implying they are doing all that festive washing up with said new towel then maybe go with another of our gifts for the home. Our new wax melts have been very popular. They can be bought separately (something else to stuff in there) or as a pick and mix box. With 15 scents to choose from you can't really go wrong, they are bound to enjoy some of them!
And if you are STILL struggling to fill those oversized Christmas socks then why not check out the 'Under £5' section on our website?