This is a weekend when Wanstead folk can make a difference to local traders, especially since opportunities to shop wider afield are limited (and may well get more limited by this time next week).
Alongside reliable gift and treat suppliers such as the Art Shop, the Larder, More Italy and others, this year there are more choices than last. Truffles Trinkets and Travel has reclaimed a treasured Wanstead name in its traditional position, and Daygustation offers new options for presents for wine lovers.
But there are other options too.
Percy Langley is billing itself as Wanstead’s own department store and is doing something pretty cool. Set up by local mums Poppy and George, the shop curates products sourced from independent British designers, and has been featured in the Guardian and Grazia.
Poppy says: “We stock fine contemporary jewellery, knitwear & accessories, baby and childrens wear, books, toys, games, home wear and lifestyle products. All of our products produced by independent British businesses, many of whom are local to East London.”
Percy Langley is doing a pop-up at Host of Leytonstone from 18-20 December, and you can visit their online shop here.
Muriel and Me, run by local Bryony MacQueen, has a range of Wanstead-themed gifts available including new tea towels featuring St Mary’s church, along with the very popular Wanstead placemats and coasters. Bryony was one of the traders who was looking forward to last weekend’s farmers’ market which was cancelled at the 11th hour because of rising Covid rates. But her online shop is open for business.
Wanstead Bookshop – we wouldn’t be doing ourselves justice if we didn’t mention that Wanstead’s new local bookshop is offering 75 gift ideas – this is a great Christmas for people who love books. And it’s not yet too late to order books for delivery by Christmas – gift vouchers are also available which are delivered by email (these can be printed out and sent to the gift recipient or simply forwarded to them).
- We’re happy to feature any more gift ideas from local traders – just let us know via info@wansteadium.com