I have been planning to write a series of blog posts about some lovely small family-run businesses because I try, where possible, to avoid handing over our hard-earned money to big companies with dubious moral and ethical standing.  I’m going to start with this one which has been on my list for ages.  I should have written it earlier, as it’s probably cutting it fine for handmade items to be ready for Christmas, but it is so special that you might not need Christmas as an excuse!

I’ve given away a lot of baby clothes, but it’s hard to part with my favourite ones that evoke so many treasured memories, so they inevitably end up in the loft not serving any purpose.  I was really excited when I discovered Handmade at Holmes, a small business run by a lovely mum.  She makes keepsake dolls and teddies, and I chose some of Rabbit’s baby clothes to send to her.

I was very pleased with the results and I’m really looking forward to giving Rabbit her new teddy for Christmas, as I am sure she will love it.

I think it’s the perfect present for little ones – and it ticks all my boxes for clearing out the clutter in my loft, recycling, and supporting an independent business.  Have a look at the Handmade at Holmes facebook page and you can see some other examples.  You can also get little advent stockings to fill with treats – I’m very tempted!

So that’s the first family-run business I want to recommend to you.  Next on my list is my favourite online independent toy retailer which is equally brilliant!