Christmas, the lights, the food, the family, the fun, the music. And even though I've been living in Australia since I was 4, I still think that Christmas should also include snow (I think I watch way to many movies!). Anyway, there really is an energy around this time of the year that makes my heart sing. But Christmas can also be a time fuelled by greed & consumerism, so with the awareness of this always lingering in my mind, I attempt to only purchase gifts from small, local business'. I love finding new brands that I've never come across before & show my support for their craft. And as a lot of my friends run business' themselves, intentionally gifting my loved ones with experiences or items that have been curated & made by someone I love is even more special. I believe these small actions can make such an impact in another lives.

I know I may be a bit late, seeming that Christmas is a a few days away, however I wanted to share my appreciation for the brands I've bought from this Christmas, as I truly believe collaboration, connection & supporting one another is the lifeblood of owning a business & being a creative entrepreneur. 

Kindred Toxic Free Facials

Nat is not only a dear friend of mine (and a regular feature on our YCL blog), she is also the person behind an incredible company called Kindred. Nat specialises in toxic-free skincare, yes such a thing does exist! I have a treatment with Nat every 4-6 weeks, which includes a lush treatment using all natural & cruelty-free products, which are also organic & 100% natural. Nat is so experienced in this field & I would trust no other with my skin. She has transformed my hormone fuelled skin, into what it is today, radiant, clear & glowing. Nat was kind enough to send me a Christmas gift with an array of products to try from her new online store. My favourite being the Metta Body Butter, Natural Deodorant, & these amazing Miskin Skin Elixirs.  Nat is also offering our YCL community $20 off their first online order & treatment, be sure to enter YCL20 at checkout to redeem this for yourself. Valid until December 31st. 

Antler & Moss

My kitchen is slowly becoming an Antler & Moss gallery! I love Mel's eye for design. I've got quite the collection from mugs, to pourers, plates, spoons, to little dishes & bowls. Mel has such a varying price point too, so the pieces are really accessible.

Showroom Brisbane

So I sent people to Showroom for my Christmas gifts, that counts right? SR is full beautiful, handmade artisanal wears which are all curated beautiful (YCL being part of that collection, which we are so grateful for). Not only does SR sell special handmade items, Catherine, SR's founder is also such an avid supporter of small business. Catherine has been a guiding light for YCL, & we would't be where we are today without her love, expert knowledge & kindness. This year my Christmas list included: a Foglinen apron, Copper Frame,  Sandalwood Incense & Copper Tape, all available in store & online. 

Mister Hound

I didn't know to to get Atlas this year, as he already has an overflowing craft full of toys. So I wanted to get something that would be more lasting & I came across Mister Hound. Sam makes beautiful rope leashes, that have extra loops to secure your puppy to a table or chairs while you're at a cafe, genius right?! I love the classic design of these leashes, as I usually have great difficulty finding a lead that I like, that will also hold a 30kg, 60km/ph sprinting greyhound! I couldn't recommend this brand more!

OURano Yoga & Lifestyle

For Christmas this year I decided to gift my sister & my Mum with an experience, rather than' stuff'. So I booked a half day with my beautiful friend Ourania, from OURano Yoga & Lifestyle. We enjoyed Yin Yoga, crystal mandala making & a sacred tea ceremony. My Mum & sister loved it, & it truly was such a beautiful experience to share all together. Ourania offers incredible workshops & different 1:1 sessions, she is such a dear friend of mine & my spiritual teacher. 

Clarified Designs

These aromatherapy necklaces truly make such special gifts. I have one, so does my partner, Mum, & Brother-in-laws. Clarified Designs is such a heartfelt business, whom create individual blends to invite holistic equilibrium into ones life.