We can all agree that this year has been a weird one. However, the promise of Christmas is like the light at the end of the tunnel, and one that I am keen to speed ahead to.

Our local shops have suffered massively over the past few months, so with that in mind, We pledge to make a greater effort to shop locally. To support our high street businesses and champion the artisans.

Thinking of doing the same? To help, We've pulled together a handful of smaller businesses based in Kent, that offer high quality and unique products.

The TN Card launched in February this year, a local loyalty scheme designed to reward its customers and bring our community together. It’s Founder, Jess Gibson is passionate about bringing independent businesses and individuals together by highlighting unique offers, new brands, and products. We met Jess to chat about her business, its mission, and where she’ll be shopping for Christmas gifts this year…

The beautiful thing about Instagram is that you can discover start-up brands like Delta of Phoenix who live and work just around the corner from you. I was immediately drawn to the frenzy of colour and bold shapes created by Fran on the Insta grid. Her style is unapologetically glam with body positivity at the forefront of everything she does. This girl is one to watch and we’re excited to see her new collections. We chat sustainability, the best beer garden in town and her plans for the future…