I am all for putting your money where your mouth is. Why not allow our choices this Christmas to light up the pockets of local businesses, small families and ultimately, shape our future. Let’s breathe life into our own backyard this festive season – and beyond.
When you buy from a local small business owner, someone actually stands up and does an excited little happy dance thanks to your purchase. I love that our conscious purchases can directly fuel locals… I don’t think that huge global brands would jump up and down with joy quite like this in their living room!
Here are a few brilliant Christmas gift ideas direct from thriving Western Australian businesses. Let’s make conscious decisions and give back to our own locals this season.
Aussie Hydrate
Eco Friendly Glass & Bamboo Bottles
Perth based Aussie Hydrate is on a mission is to reduce plastic usage throughout the world. BPA free, their bamboo and glass sustainable designs are perfect Christmas presents for the health and environmentally conscious. Hot and cold beverage friendly, the glass bottle range includes THE PACIFIC, a double walled bottle with a stainless steel infuser for tea leaves, as well as my favourite THE CARIBBEAN, which encourages and measures your hydration through the day. Best of all, being glass, I can add my essential oils without the worry that comes with a plastic container breaking down and causing toxicity.
In Australia alone we use 1 BILLION plastic cups a year! Let’s say no to plastic and use eco friendly glass bottles for our own health benefits too.
HOLA BELLA
Handcrafted Sterling Silver Jewellery
There is something for everyone in this beautiful range curated in Dunsborough. The idea behind Hola Bella is to allow the wearers’ inner beauty to shine through. Susan hand picks bold, unique and timeless pieces that “express inner strength mixed with feminine beauty – to inspire you to express yourself.” This intention is evident in the natural stones and gems showcased in the striking range. I love the hand selected turquoise stoned intricacies, as it’s reminiscent of the bright turquoise of our local beaches here in the south west corner.
Pop over to her website to browse the stunning range, or visit Cove in Dunsborough to try on her beautiful pieces.
DS Flex
Activewear Range Dunsborough
Nothing screams Down South Life like amazing active wear. Designer and local Dunsborough Mum, Hayley, has just launched her third season with the brand new Collection 108. I am personally super excited about this range! Having worn her previous Collection 107 to teach my Barre Attack and Pilates classes, I love the silky but firm fabric that LASTS. This season’s line includes ‘Mum & Mini’ matching options in the ‘Rose Quartz’ tights, an eye-catching ‘Azure Tropic’ set and a monochrome Leopard ‘Wild Nora’ aligned for release in the New Year. DS Flex also stocks cute shorts, flattering sports bras and loose tanks. Activewear outfits never looked so good! These ensembles will certainly motivate you to get moving this summer season. The range literally supports both YOU and local business directly.
You can find the full DS Flex range in Cove, Dunsborough, or purchase online. Collection 108 will be a sell out with Pre Orders being taken through November.
INJI POTS
Functional Handmade Stoneware Ceramics
You cannot get much closer to home than when your coffee cup is literally made AT HOME. Bessie from Inji Pots creates her masterpieces from her own home in Dunsborough then fires them at the Potters Club in Busselton. This charming, textured stoneware range is diverse and always changing. From hanging pots to ceramic plates and spoons, she truly captures iconic Australian colours in her handmade ceramics. Inji Pots regularly features at Pop Up shops throughout the south west. Head over to her Instagram or Facebook page to find out where you can catch Inji Pots next or to contact her direct.
The travel coffee cups are so unique, each have their own individualised colour, shape and character, which I love. There’s no excuse not to have your reusable cup and play your part in protecting Mother Earth!
In the Woods & Co
Boho Leather, Suede & Vegan Living
Another extremely multitalented Dunsborough ‘Dog Mum’ (read: owner of the smallest sausage dog you will ever see!) has brought life to modern boho with a luscious range of In The Woods wallets, clutches, bags and totes. Her extensive range includes teeny kids shoes, slow fashion and a stunning linen selection via her other label Oasis Cló. In The Woods is one of a few ranges to include a Vegan selection of washable paper pursues, a fabulous Christmas present for those conscious of cruelty-free products.
Lauren has an intricate eye for detail and designs with flare. Her accessories are handmade and there are a multitude of exclusive garments available. You are bound to find a unique gift this Christmas amongst this collation. In the Woods and Oasis Cló are available online as well as in Cove, Dunsborough.
https://www.inthewoodsandco.com
Cove Dunborough
If you’re down south, there’s a new kid on the block. Literally! You will find most of these south west based, Australian brands in the new coastal inspired space, Cove. This exciting store is actively limiting their stock to featuring Western Australian businesses ONLY. Cove demonstrates a true ‘locals supporting local’ belief – something I too am very passionate about.
Head into Cove this Christmas and enjoy feeling both fulfilled and empowered, knowing that your choice of gifts support local this festive season.
Cove Dunsborough: 4B, 31 Dunn Bay Road, Dunsborough, Western Australia
I’d like to wish EVERYONE a sensational, slow summer season, and a very Merry Christmas! May the New Year bring you everything you dream of and beyond.
Sarah x
Sarah McLachlan Real Estate Dunsborough 