The Colourful Antidote To Black Friday We Need

If you’re anything like me, right now you’ll be feeling thoroughly fed up with the whole concept of Black Friday. The frenzy to buy stuff we often don’t need at ‘knockdown’ prices that usually aren’t the bargain they seem. According to research, almost half of UK shoppers said they rarely or never used their Black Friday purchases. It’s all so wasteful in so many ways.

Of course, I’m not alone in thinking this. I was inspired to write this by Sally & Co Founder, Holly Tucker, who launched Colour Friday [link] four years ago to encourage the nation to shop with their values and support small businesses.

As Holly says herself, “Imagine the difference we could make if we redistributed the £13.3bn we spent on Black Friday to small businesses instead! Help us celebrate the colour and creativity small businesses bring to the UK.” As a small business owner myself, I love the whole Colour Friday movement and I really hope it continues to grow.

‍A curated collection of the best self-care products

One of the things I like most about living in Ledbury is that it has so many independent shops and small businesses where I’ll be doing as much Christmas shopping as I can. In that spirit and responding to numerous requests from clients, I’m launching my own Self Care store in the salon.

I’ve brought together a lovely collection of products from female-founded small businesses that share my outlook and ethos – cutting out the preservatives and artificial fragrances that can have such an effect on our hormone balance. Here’s a taste of what you’ll find next time you drop in:

‍Soap on a Rope by KLEEN

Gorgeous soap designed to put a smile on your face and make your body feel beautiful, while helping to preserve our planet.

‍Candles and bath salts by Octo & Co

Unique and uplifting scents from a family-run artisanal business dedicated to the love of fragrance.

‍Teas by Bird & Blend Teas

Great quality teabags, chai trio and magical matcha from an independent, award-winning business on a mission to spread happiness.

‍Life & Soul Omega Oil and  D3&K2 Spray by Bare Biology

An amazing business selling products they believe in, not what’s trending. Made for and by courageous women.

‍Regenerative Omegas by Sow & Arrow

I wouldn’t be without these essential fats that play a crucial role in maintaining optimal health, supporting heart, brain and joint function. From the business founded by renowned nutritionist, Pauline Cox.

‍Hungry Women by Pauline Cox

An amazing book on hormones and how to keep on top of the rise and fall of oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone with nutrition. This book changed my life!

‍Gift Vouchers by Rosie Glow

I have gift vouchers starting at just £25 - something to put on your Christmas list!

My ethos is very much about balance and a holistic way of looking after your skin, from the inside out. The wasteful consumerism of Black Friday seems to be the opposite of that, which is why I’m  ditching the darkness and embracing a more colourful way. I hope you’ll join me!

I will post my Self Care Store opening hours every Sunday on my Instagram

Late Night Christmas Shopping in Ledbury

Why not join me for one of my favourite nights of the year - late night Christmas shopping - Friday 6th December. Ledbury High Street always feels like such a special place, but this night is extra special - Ryan is going to serving mulled wine and I’m giving away 5 Gift Bags full of over £50 worth of treats for your skin to the first five customers. Plus 10% of all Gift Vouchers purchased that night! Can't wait to see you there.