The C Word Mag’s Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide for 2023 - Part 1
Welcome to the most wonderful time of the year! As we approach the festive season of 2023, it's time to start thinking about the perfect gifts to make this Christmas truly special.
Whether you're on the hunt for thoughtful presents to surprise your loved ones or you're looking to treat yourself to a bit of holiday cheer, our Christmas Gift Guide for 2023 has you covered.
This year, we've scoured the market to curate a (quite large) collection of the most amazing gifts that will bring joy and delight to everyone on your list. From handmade crafts to delectable treats, we've handpicked an array of options to help you spread the holiday spirit.
So, grab a steaming mug of hot chocolate, get cosy by the fire, and join us on a journey through the must-have gifts of the season in our Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide for 2023. Let's make this holiday season one to remember!
The Accessories Icon is always well put together with matching bits and bobs
The key to choosing a gift for this recipient is to consider how the accessory will complement their unique style and add that extra touch of sophistication to their already well-put-together look. Your thoughtful gesture will be greatly appreciated!
Nevermore Forge
Byzantine chainmail bracelets with initials.
Nevermore Forge is a small, independent forge based in Staplecross, founded and run by blacksmith, metalworker, and maker Sam Payne. He specialises in handmade chainmail jewellery and accessories inspired by ancient times and Norse mythology.
A signature collar and bracelet of full Byzantine chain and entirely handmade with a puzzle clasp.
All of the amazing creations are silver or stainless steel to suit your budget. What’s more, everything can be customised because it's handmade from scratch! This includes the size, chain length, chain link size, engravings, etc.
A set of full stainless steel high polish finished boot chains as requested by the customer. These are fully customisable in any way you’d like.
Stunning simplistic style belly chain with heart
You can find him on Instagram (@nevermoreforgeuk)
Matching stamped silver bracelets.
Because everything is custom-made, he doesn’t have set prices. However, prices start from:
Boot chains - £15
Body chain - £35
Chain mail bracelet - £64
Copper/silver bangle - £25
Tourqe - £30
Rings - £15
Gold-plated body chain harness.
If you quote our super secret code ‘CWORD’ when you message Sam, he’ll throw in free shipping to all mainland UK addresses.
Resin Overload
Rainbow glitter Christmas tree earrings - £23
Resin Overload isn't just about jewellery; it's about making a statement. Their pieces are more than decorations; they are wearable works of art. Each creation demonstrates boundless creativity and meticulous craftsmanship in constructing statement pieces that turn heads and spark conversations.
Handmade arch-shaped resin earrings with green glitter - £16
Red glitter heart-shaped earrings - £18
Their jewellery speaks to the bold and the spirited, those who aren't afraid to stand out and shine brightly. It's about embracing your true self and letting your personality shine through.
Radiating playfulness, captivating the eye with vivid colours, and exuding vibrant energy, Resin Overload’s jewellery pieces are ideal for festivals, parties, special occasions, or simply for infusing a touch of sparkle into your everyday outfit.
Handmade arch-shaped resin earrings with rainbow paint blobs - £16
Their secret ingredient? A combination of high-quality resin and a handpicked selection of glitters, chosen with the utmost care and attention to detail. This blend creates a mesmerising effect that not only catches and refracts light but also grabs the attention of people around you.
Turquoise glitter love heart resin earrings - £14
Whether dancing under the sun at a festival, celebrating with friends, or simply brightening your daily routine, a piece of Resin Overload jewellery promises to bring a bit of your personality to your look.
Head over to their Etsy store, and when you realise you need a piece in your life, enter the code TINSEL10, which gets you 10% off your sparkly order, on top of the free delivery!
Carrie Elspeth
Note: Carrie Elspeth generously gifted me a few pieces to understand their exceptional quality, and I loved them so much that I’ve already bought three more items.
In 1999, Carrie embarked on her journey of crafting exquisite handmade jewellery in South Wales. Fast forward to today, and Carrie Elspeth has emerged as a prominent supplier to independent gift shops not only in the UK but also across the world. From her studio warehouse situated on the outskirts of Cowbridge in Llandow, she continues to create stunning pieces that capture hearts worldwide.
A range of bracelets made from different precious gemstones, you can choose between a heart or star charm for the bracelet - £29.99
Carrie Elspeth takes great pride in creating award-winning handmade jewellery, having earned the prestigious Gift of the Year 2021 accolade. This recognition is undoubtedly well-earned, as every piece is meticulously crafted to infuse a touch of opulence into your neckline, wrists, or ears. If you haven't had the pleasure of discovering this remarkable Welsh company, you're truly missing out on a fabulous experience!
Beautiful handmade crescent moon earrings -£14.99
Their best-selling Sentiments collection is a fabulous range of charm bracelets created to make the perfect gift. Each piece is lovingly handmade in Wales and comes with a Carrie Elspeth gift card and a branded jewellery pouch.
Handmade sentiment bracelets are available for every occasion. They are elasticated to fit both larger and smaller wrists - £17.50
Their core jewellery ranges are filled with sparkly Swarovski crystals, stunning Czech glass, and sophisticated semi-precious beads. The wires are delicate enough that you don’t realise you’re wearing anything but sturdy enough to know they’re built to last.
Rainbow crystal links necklace handmade with wire and colourful beads - £19.99
We’ve struck a deal with the jeweller, and until December 31st, 2023, the code ‘CWORD20’ will net you a stunning 20% off all full-priced items.
Sbri
Handmade "Isla" card and coin purse from the carnival collection - £30
Sbri is the Welsh word for ‘fun’, and that’s the value that underpins their entire business model. Sbri makes colourful, personalised women's accessories from luxury quality, sustainable, veg-tanned leather in their studio based in the UK.
Floral glasses case that is part of the Sbri collaboration with British textile and print designer Elizabeth Rachael - £39
They’re a made-to-order leather accessories brand celebrating the extra things in life. Offering lovingly handcrafted pieces personalised by and for you, their designs are hand-drawn in-house and then carefully printed onto beautiful British leather.
Handmade leather Airpod carry case, part of the Leopard Bloom collection - £30
All gifts can be personalised with a name or initials, and their full range includes women's purses, keyrings, pet, travel, and tech accessories.
This dog poo bag pouch holds a standard-sized roll of poop bags with a dispenser slot underneath. Available in a range of colours with options for matching collars and leads - £26
They believe the only thing that should be left behind is great memories, so every item is made with sustainably sourced leather from within the UK, prepared using traditional methods that have minimal environmental impact.
Sustainably sourced, premium quality veg-tanned leather is used to hand-make these leather water bottle carriers
The lovely people at Sbri have generously offered C Word Mag readers a 10% discount, which you can take advantage of by entering the code CWORD10 at checkout.
UASHMAMA UK
A simple, functional pencil case that can also be used as a sunglass or reading glass protective case, makeup or makeup brush bag, or a coin purse - £20
UASHMAMA, a brand deeply rooted in the heart of Tuscany, is a beacon of innovation, functionality, and sustainability in the world of lifestyle products. Crafted from natural fibres, their creations are a testament to the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.
Part of the ‘Vegetale’ collection, the Terme small crossbody bag is made from plant-based materials - £76
At the core of UASHMAMA's philosophy lie three main principles:
Innovation: UASHMAMA prides itself on pushing the boundaries of creativity and design. Their innovative approach to crafting lifestyle products sets them apart, ensuring that each item is not just functional but also a work of art.
Functionality: Every UASHMAMA creation is meticulously designed to serve a purpose in daily life. From paper bags that blend style and practicality to homewares that elevate living spaces and bags and accessories that marry fashion with functionality, their products are thoughtfully made to enhance everyday experiences.
Sustainability: Sustainability is a cornerstone of UASHMAMA's ethos. By utilising natural fibers and environmentally friendly materials, they minimise their ecological footprint. Their commitment to sustainable practices extends to every aspect of their production process, making them a responsible choice for conscious consumers.
A key holder case to keep your keys safe as well as your ear pods, coins, or lipgloss - £20
From chic paper bags that redefine the concept of a humble carrier to a diverse range of homewares that infuse elegance into living spaces, and from stylish bags that complement any outfit to accessories that elevate personal style, UASHMAMA's creations embody the essence of Italian craftsmanship and eco-conscious living.
A wine bag made from AGGO® washable paper and Italian leather and a removal cooler pack. This wine bag and cooler gift set is the perfect sustainable way to chill drinks - £38
All new customers can receive 10% off their first Uashmama order by signing up to their email list
The Art Enthusiast: Loves adorning their home with various forms of art.
For The Art Enthusiast in your life, their home is their canvas, and every corner is a masterpiece in the making. Their passion for art knows no bounds, and they take pride in adorning their space with creativity and imagination. When selecting a gift for The Art Enthusiast, consider items that not only complement their artistic flair but also inspire their creative journey.
Judith P. Raynault Studio
Art print featuring Zora Neale Hurston, the American author, anthropologist, and filmmaker—limited edition of 70 A4 prints - £40
Judith is an artist and graphic designer based in London but originally hails from Montréal, Canada. She creates a variety of limited edition fine art prints, sure to make your home more colourful.
Limited edition, signed, and numbered Greenery art print. Available in A3 and A4 - £50
Her portfolio showcases her passion for visual storytelling as she transforms her ideas into limited-edition fine art prints, heartfelt greeting cards, and custom illustrations that resonate with both heart and soul.
Summer Night art print, Limited edition of 50 A3 prints - £50
Created in her home studio in London, Judith draws inspiration from people she sees around her, design, fashion, and photography. All the elements she includes in her artwork have been thoughtfully researched. The representation of women is central to her work. All prints come in sustainable packaging.
Bundled-Up A4 art print, a limited edition of 50 prints - £40
Her prints are all limited editions, signed and numbered. They're all printed on archival fine art paper, with the Giclée print technique for amazing colours.
We’re delighted to be able to offer our lovely readers a code for free shipping. Enter ‘CWORDFREESHIPPING’ at checkout.
Taylor P Starnes
High-quality print of the original "Dolly" painting, available in two sizes. Starting from - £33.23
Taylor P Starnes is a Texan artist based in North Carolina best known for her vibrant pop art style portraits of celebrities and animals teeming with colour and energy. Her work often explores themes of pop culture surrounding her interests and places she has travelled.
"Let's Go Girls" print of mixed media original painting of Shania Twain, available in multiple sizes. Starting from £16.61
Born in Stephenville, TX, in 1993, Taylor was introduced to art at a young age by her grandmother who taught her to paint. She has been creating art for nearly 22 years and has exhibited work in galleries and museums around North Carolina, most recently in the Cameron Art Museum in Wilmington, NC.
9”x12” print of Palo Duro Butterfly oil painting - £20.77
Taylor currently studies art at the University of North Carolina Greensboro and will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Studio Art with a minor in Arts Administration in 2024.
"Keanu" high quality ink print, size 8.5”x11” - £20.77
The Bookworm: Devours books and can't resist a good read.
It can be challenging to buy for a bookworm, as you don’t know what they already have in their TBR pile, and honestly, you probably don’t want to encourage the growth of said pile. Chances are, it’s already taller than they are.
But, you can still find the perfect gift for the bookworm in your life without enabling their book-hoarding habit.
Paper and Word
Paper and Word understand that reading is not just a pastime; it's a passion. They aim to elevate the reading experience, protect cherished books, and contribute to a greener world – one page at a time.
Let Paper and Word take care of the details with their optional Gift wrap, ribbons, and Christmas cards by Rosy Cheeks Illustrations - £1.50 - £3
A small female-founded business based near Liverpool, they specialise in hand-making design-focused sleeves for book lovers. They drop a new limited collection at the end of every month. If you need more reason to love them, they ship everything in compostable or biodegradable packaging and plant a tree with every order, too! With 5,316 trees and 39 projects funded by Paper and Word customers so far, they’re making an impact.
All book sleeves are handmade from cotton or silk, with a soft inner wadding for extra protection. From £24
Paper and Word is the gateway to literary luxury and provides a delightful selection of handmade book sleeves designed to cater to the needs of avid readers. These beautiful book sleeves not only provide a touch of elegance to your Bookworm's beloved tomes but also offer a practical solution for book lovers on the move. With a Paper and Word book sleeve, your lucky recipient can now take their literary companions on adventures near and far, knowing they'll be shielded from the wear and tear of the outside world.
Handmade book sleeves are available in three sizes, paperback, hardback and e-reader. From £24
Paper and Word’s dedication to enhancing the reading journey doesn't stop at physical accessories. They also offer Notion templates designed exclusively for readers. These templates encompass everything from reading challenges to a library tracker, enabling every reader to organise, set goals, and immerse themselves in the world of literature like never before.
However, if you don’t mind adding to your recipient’s TBR pile, here are a couple of excellent choices for this holiday season.
Resistance: London
Independently published earlier this year, newcomer author Jonathon Lawrence’s Resistance: London is a must-read. Fans of George Orwell's 1984 will love this modern take on the dystopian tale.
Here’s a flavour of what to expect from the book:
Just decades into London's future, Great Britain's democracy has been overtaken by the Grand Council. The way paved by Artificial Intelligence, the City's people have been plunged into poverty, overseen by a corrupt militant police force.
Emma, a drone mechanic, Inspector Moorgrove and Grace, scout and freedom fighter, seek the truth and to restore balance to London and freedom from the Grand Council's corruption.
Resistance: London is available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats.
Follow Your Fernweh
For readers who want to find themselves, Follow Your Fernweh is THE book they need to read. Fernweh means the longing for places not yet discovered, and throughout this book, author Kindle Smyth leads you along a journey of discovery using a mix of memoir and how-to.
In Follow Your Fernweh, you will find:
Five stepping stones to help you live a life in pursuit of your passions
Real-life stories of regular people living extraordinary lives
Reflection activities to help you discover your path
Practical tips and action items for planning your adventure
It’s available to purchase on Amazon in both Kindle and paperback.
The Charity Advocate: Dedicated to supporting charitable causes and organisations.
A Small Shop in Africa
Following her move to Kenya in 2005, A Small Shop in Africa (ASSiA) was founded by Fi MacDonald, selling a unique range of African home accessories in the UK.
With a discerning eye for new and exotic textures, colours, and style, ASSiA brings together the very best from a few of East Africa’s finest artisans, empowering women and communities, using recycled materials where possible, and always ensuring Fairtrade.
Individual hand-beaded chicken made from recycled wire and beads, with three colour options - £15
The Woollen Kiondo are woven by a group of ladies from recycled jumper wool in the Karatina District, the style and choices of colour being individual as taught by older family members.
A colourful Woollen Kiondo Basket with hyacinth blue & red - £45
The sisal storage baskets are woven by an elderly women’s group in Kitui and then hand-finished with leather trims and handles in Nairobi.
Sisal Basket Bins, a woven basket with a choice of different coloured stripes - £30
A unique range of engraved glass and recycled wine bottles for use as glasses, water bottles, lanterns, or candle holders. These are beautifully engraved by a team of talented artisans trained by Sue Dumbelton at Ngare Ndare/Lewa.
Set of six champagne glasses, each with a different hand-engraved animal - £125
The gorgeous range of organic creamy Jacaranda Wood is carved by a co-operative of Kamba wood carvers in the Machakos District.
Deep nesting bowls made from jacaranda, sold individually or as a set of three. £40 for the set of three
Wild Olive wood is all sustainably sourced from private plantations in Kissi.
Long rounded olivewood salad servers with a beaded handle detail. Sold as a pair with different colour options - £15
All of their horn products are made of Ankole cow horn. The horn is a byproduct of farming in Uganda, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Butter spreader handmade from the Ugandan Ankole cow horn - £10
Their diverse offerings reflect the kaleidoscope of African artistry. From intricate glassware to finely woven baskets, from the vibrant world of traditional Kenyan beaded items to the vivid hues of their painted collection, and from the natural beauty of wooden bowls to the exquisite platters, each piece is a work of art that tells a story.
The Coffee Connoisseur: Can't start the day without a perfect cup of coffee.
For this recipient, each day begins with the rich aroma and satisfying taste of the perfect cup of coffee. Their passion for this beloved brew runs deep, and they've elevated coffee appreciation to an art form. Well, either that or they’ve made coffee a large part of their personality, like I have.
We’ve chosen a selection of gifts that will not only enhance their coffee experience but also remind them of your thoughtfulness with every sip.
Balance Coffee
Choose from a range of grind options or whole-bean coffee
Did you know that a staggering 85% of the world's coffee production is subjected to pesticides and stored in conditions that promote mould growth? This alarming revelation ignited a spark in the founder of Balance Coffee, prompting him to embark on a transformative mission. He was determined to redefine the coffee experience and introduce a positive change that would benefit both coffee lovers and the environment.
Each coffee blend has a unique taste, with some of the tasting notes including dark chocolate, milk chocolate, floral, and fruity
James's journey led him on a quest to source the highest grade of coffee available, setting new standards for quality and sustainability. By meticulously selecting coffee beans grown with care and without harmful pesticides, he ensured that every cup of coffee would not only tantalise the taste buds but also prioritise your well-being.
Now, thanks to Balance Coffee’s dedication and commitment to quality, you can savour your daily dose of health with the comforting embrace of your favourite morning cup. Every sip of this carefully curated coffee blend is a testament to his mission to deliver a coffee experience that's not only exquisite in flavour but also environmentally conscious and health-conscious.
Each type of coffee is available in a variety of sizes
So, as you indulge in your freshly brewed coffee, know that you're not just enjoying a cup of coffee; you're sipping on a commitment to purity, quality, and the well-being of both coffee enthusiasts and the planet. Balance Coffee’s journey has transformed your daily ritual into a conscious choice for a better, healthier, and more sustainable coffee experience.
This 3-month subscription sends out fresh coffee each month. You to choose the flavour, bag size, and coffee grind type. Starting from £38
Spread joy with Balance Coffee’s Coffee Gift Subscription - a daily dose of health and great taste. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, offering longevity and flavour in every cup.
You can also read about Ellie’s experience trying Balance’s Lion’s Mane Mushroom coffee!
Ink and Sips
If you don’t know what kind of coffee to get them, you can’t go wrong with a funky mug, tumbler, or coaster to compliment their morning brew!
Patterned 20oz tumbler with sliding lid and reusable straw - £16
Meet Jess, the proud owner of InkandSips, a creative venture that came to life in July 2023. Jess's journey as a shop owner began as a result of her battle with a stomach condition that led to her being registered as disabled, limiting her options for traditional full-time employment. However, her inherent creativity and determination shone through during this challenging period.
Highland Cow bundle items, tumbler, mug and two coasters - £27
From the comfort of her own home, Jess harnessed her creative talents, initially using Adobe Illustrator to craft intricate designs. This artistic endeavour soon evolved as she acquired a vinyl cutter and set up a sublimation station, enabling her to bring her designs to life on various products. The process of seeing her creations materialize on these items brought her immense joy and a sense of purpose, prompting her to consider sharing her work with others.
Foodie lovehearts mug and coasters bundle - £12
InkandSips boasts a diverse range of designs, but Jess has a particular fondness for her colourful and animal-themed creations. Among her offerings, the colourful animal range stands out, offering a plethora of vibrant animal variations to choose from. Her product line began with mugs and coasters and expanded to include tumblers, a favourite due to their insulation properties. Jess's very first tumbler design, featuring a colourful Lynx, remains a daily companion, keeping her beverages hot for up to six hours and cold for an impressive 24 hours.
Elephant mug and coasters bundle - £12
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Jess's business philosophy. She is committed to making eco-conscious choices and championing reusable solutions, both at home and on the go. The tumblers she offers are a testament to this commitment, not only for their practicality but also for their ease of cleaning compared to traditional reusable bottles.
A little bit dramatic bundle, one mug and two coasters - £12
In her workspace, waste is diligently recycled, and Jess goes the extra mile by utilising biodegradable and recyclable materials for her packaging, minimizing her environmental footprint. Looking ahead, starting in 2024, Jess plans to allocate a portion of her profits to non-profit organizations dedicated to wildlife rehabilitation and combatting animal cruelty. Charities benefiting from her support will include Four Paws, World Animal Protection, and the Beagle Freedom Project, showcasing her dedication to making a positive impact beyond her business endeavours.
Use code CWORD10 for 10% off your order.
The Eco-Conscious Activist: Advocates for sustainability and environmental causes.
In a world that's increasingly embracing the importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility, the Eco-Conscious Activist emerges as a beacon of change. With a passionate commitment to preserving our planet and advocating for eco-friendly causes, this dedicated person is on a mission to make a positive impact, one mindful choice at a time.
byMATTER™
Best selling bio-active fabric freshener that targets odour-causing bacteria and eliminates odours - £24
byMATTER™ produces scientifically engineered products designed for better results and lifestyle. At the heart of byMATTER™'s offerings is a range of bio-active products designed to elevate your daily routines while safeguarding the environment. Their bio-active all-purpose cleaner is a testament to their commitment to innovation and sustainability, providing an effective cleaning solution that doesn't harm the planet.
The all-purpose cleaner is bio-engineered to be effective against bacteria with no harsh chemicals - £22
Bio-active soap that works to exfoliate, purify, and rejuvenate the skin - £10
But, byMATTER™ doesn't stop at cleaning alone. Their purifying soap is a gentle yet effective way to cleanse while minimising the use of harmful chemicals. byMATTER™ also offers a bio-active freshener that doesn't just mask odours but actively combats them using eco-conscious methods.
To complement their eco-conscious cleaning solutions, byMATTER™ also offers luxury for your bedroom sanctuary. Their collection includes opulent 500-thread count sateen weave pillowcases and duvet covers that redefine comfort and sustainability in bedding.
These sumptuous textiles boast a remarkable texture - a delicate balance between smoothness and crispness, while still being incredibly soft and silky to the touch. With byMATTER™'s luxurious bedding, you're not just resting your head on a pillow; you're embracing a sustainable lifestyle that prioritizes both your comfort and the health of our planet.
The Moonlit Press
Monstera leaf keyring, is a perfect stocking filler for any plant lover - £8
The Moonlit Press is a team of two, couple Emma and Andy. Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Snowdonia, their studio serves as a wellspring of inspiration for crafting eco-conscious homeware that embodies the beauty of the natural world.
An original woodland illustration printed in limited runs on hammered card stock - £25
Emma and Andy bring their collective vision to life through a range of heartwarming creations that are both delightful and eco-friendly. At The Moonlit Press, their commitment to sustainability shines as brightly as their love for crafting. They've lovingly curated a collection of joyful homeware, thoughtful gifts, and playful jewellery, all lovingly made right here in Britain.
Star print cosmetic bag sustainably made from 100% cotton - £26
Their devotion to detail extends to the very heart of their studio, where you might find them personally printing greeting cards with the assistance of their Original Heidelberg Press one day, and then hand-pulling screen prints the next. It's a seamless blend of traditional and modern techniques that infuse each piece with a unique charm.
Bold floral print tea towel printed on eco-friendly, unbleached cotton - £12
Emma and Andy not only design these intricate pieces but also use their own laser to cut and assemble them by hand in their studio. This hands-on approach not only ensures the utmost attention to detail but also underscores their commitment to environmental responsibility. They maximise materials, embrace reuse, and recycle diligently along the way, making every effort to tread lightly on the planet.
The ‘You Are Loved’ keyring, made from acrylic and available in a range of colours - £8
All new customers can receive 10% off their first order by signing up for The Moonlit Press email list.
_
Hana Ames is a cat mama, a feminist, who enjoys cooking, playing board games and drinking cocktails. She has been writing professionally since 2018 and has a degree in English literature. Her website is www.hrawriting.com and she is always interested in discussing new projects. Catch her on Twitter @hrawriting and Facebook: www.facebook.com/hrawriting
