Have you started thinking about Christmas shopping yet? I know in the UK we start really early, but now I’m in Mauritius I seem to leave it later and later. I think it’s the weather – who can think of Christmas when it’s 30 degrees and feels like summer? But we can’t let that stop us because, before you know it, it’s mid-December and you haven’t bought a single gift. So today I wanted to take out some of the stress by suggesting some fantastic gifts you can buy your nearest and dearest. And it’s not just jewellery either…..
Let’s decorate
We all love to decorate our homes over the festive season but how about doing it in a creative and environmentally friendly way? The stunning bloc art wall hangings by Live Love Africa are perfect for making a bold décor statement that also helps local businesses in Africa. Each colourful design is made from carefully coordinated recycled wood and cut into bold yet intricate designs. Perfect for sophisticated or more playful design pallettes. If you’re in Mauritius you can find their range at My Pop Up Store, So’Flo, Floreal and the Boutik Shop at Vanilla Village, Black River. They also ship internationally, so what could be simpler.
Look after your skin
Whether it’s sunny or cold with you right now, our skin will always benefit from high quality products to care for it in extreme weather. I recently discovered the fantastic French skin care company Z&MA who specialise in organic skin care. They promise to offer ‘a new generation of clean, effective, environmentally-friendly cosmetics, made in France, that will give new meaning to your daily care routine’. Their products are free of petrochemicals and all their ingredients are traceable. There is also no testing on animals. You can buy their products from Medm.mu and they deliver within Mauritius and ship to La Reunion and South Africa
Smell divine
I don’t know about you but I still love some nice bath and shower products for Christmas, or as we call them in Wales – ‘smellies’. I love nothing better than lining up my new bottles after Christmas and trying them one by one. Mauritius has no shortage of companies making these gorgeous treats, so I’ve just selected some of my favourites for you…
Hedonism Soapery
This company, based in Vacoas-Phoenix makes THE most luxurious soaps. They’re beautiful to look at and smell absolutely divine. Contact them via Instagram to place your order.
Bruce and Peanut
Such a lovely husband and wife team who named their company after their two dogs – Bruce and Peanut. Their subtly scented soaps are cruelty free, 100% vegan and contain no palm oil. Find them here on Facebook
Let’s create an ambience
Candles – the perfect way to create the mood you want – intimate, relaxed, peaceful….The beautiful hand decorated candles of Beyond Henna of Manchester, UK are not only perfect for creating the right mood but are also stunning to look at. Hand painted by the lovely Sabah Ismail, the level of detail is just outstanding. Check out her online shop here or on Instagram
…and let’s not forget the jewellery
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas if we didn’t give a piece of jewellery to at least one person, would it? I know it is always a go-to gift for my mother. But what’s their style? If they love chunky, colourful, dainty or simple, my current collections have something to suit every taste. Check out Liri here and see what takes your fancy.
Or would you prefer a completely unique design just for your loved one? No problem, I have worked with so many of you in recent months on your one of a kind designs. If you’d like some inspiration, check out some recent commissions here
Remember I ship FREE worldwide but be sure to order by 15 December to ensure you get it in time for the big day.
Some fantastic local shops for your to browse your gifts
Not only can you find excellent gifts online but many of these products and so much more can be found in some stylish boutiques across Mauritius.
One of my favourites is the stylish S’mall and Chic in Curepipe. A striking building where you can shop and dine in luxury. Browse high quality Mauritian products and fantastic antiques, treat yourself to fine art and a relaxing manicure; this place has it all.
The casually cool My Pop Up Store is perfect for shopping high quality locally made products. If you’re after that perfect boho babe outfit, stylish handbag and effortless jewellery, this place is perfect. Find them in Ruisseau Creole, Black River and So Flo mall, Floreal.
Oui Oui Fashion in Port Louis oozes glamour and sophistication. Treat yourself to (mostly) one of a kind clothing straight from Europe, high quality leather bags and plenty of elegant accessories – perfect for styling your holiday party wardrobe.
So what are you waiting for….start shopping!!
I hope I ‘ve sparked some inspiration for what you could buy as gifts this Christmas. It’s always nice to give someone a gift that is locally made or has an ethical dimension as it shows you’ve put some thought into what you’ve bought. I can certainly say each of these tick those boxes.
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