This land, this country has so much going on it makes my head pop! In the past year I’ve met so many people doing so many cool things I can’t even get them all down, so I thought I’d slow it all down and in the spirit of Christmas give you my guide to where to buy your gifts.

Small business is at the heart of what I do, at the heart of Queenstown Life. I am a small but mighty business and so I hear the calls of trepidation and anxiety when someone else steps into the breach. It’s a scary old place to set up for yourself and get out there but these people are doing it, finding their way and also everyone needs a helping hand every once in a while. Shop small, shop local and don’t forget about the people and stories behind these businesses.

Aida Maeby Wellington
Womenswear made proudly here in New Zealand and beautiful at that. Dreamy, soft and delicious to look at, Jessica has been creating wonderful pieces to run with your credit card out stretched since graduating in 2005. Wellington based, I want the Alba skirt dammit!
Website
Instagram

Further Faster Christchurch
We go way back. Well as far back as I can remember sinking a few drinks out in Queenstown one night.  An online store for all things outdoors, running and kayaking. They also provide for dogs who get out there too, these legends have just opened up a shop! Read more about them here and also go visit them.
Store: 57a Buchan Street, Sydenham, Christchurch
Website
Instagram 

The Paper Rain Project Marlborough
What a couple of legends. Wills and Indigo are that same legendary couple who set up this beautiful store and then forged ahead with their ideas. Their love of nature and all things, well, just good saw them start this Malborough based company back in 2013 and have made their way to now with a selection of amazing products. T-shirts, longboards, art and artist apparel. All made and sourced with ethically honest and organically made pieces in mind. Stores in Picton and Christchurch and on the line!
Website
Instagram

Crochet Birdie Gore
As you know I love craft and I’ve tried my hand at crochet (I made something resembling a nipple cover) but this lady knows her stuff! Workshops (with a gorgeous ‘come to the dark side’ button),  beautiful bespoke items and more woolly things than you can shake your crochet stick at you’d be hard pressed not to find something you love.
Website
Instagram 

The Stash NZ
Cakes on steroids. Need I say more? This clever clever woman has been pumping out sweet treats for a short while and her instagram account makes me gasp and wonder whats coming next with each picture. Doughnuts, cakes, treats, unbelievable skill and wonder made lovingly everyday by Vivian.
Website
Instagram 

Charlotte Lane Queenstown
Everything a girl could want and more, Charlotte Lane (Becks Robinson) was one of the first people I blogged (here) about a hundred years ago and she’s still going.
Beautiful clothes, sexy as hell sunglasses, jewellery and now shoes! A mum, kick ass business woman and looks amazing to boot. Christmas sorted (even if you just buy for yourself).
Website
Instagram 

Lily and Vine Queenstown
This clever lady has been setting herself to re-loved furniture for a while now and is a whizz at all things interior. Cushions, art, homewares, paint and workshops.
You’d be a fool not to buy your best friend, who’s been going on about making something out of those curtains for ages, something from this beautiful page.
Website
Instagram  

dontbeadoormat NZ
I saw these clever door mats a while ago on Instagram and knew they were the type of people I would love to sit down with and have a cuppa and a giggle with. You can read about them here. Tess and Dan couldn’t find mats that spoke to them, so naturally started their own company and I love them for it. Always coming up with mats that crack you up as you walk through the front door, you have to check them out to then, obviously, buy one for your friend.
Website
Instagram 

Queenstown Life
And then there’s little ol me. Nearly three years in and I’ve worked with some amazing brands and businesses. Consequently next year you lot who haven’t yet are all on my list. Most of all I can help with social media, campaigns, experiencing your product, writing about you and all that do, workshops and help. Have a read here and then get in touch as your New Years reso-thingy.
Instagram 

Have a wonderful Christmas people and make sure you jump into the lake at least once!

My Christmas list NZ Small Businesses

Lily and Vine

My Christmas list NZ Small Businesses

The Stash

My Christmas list NZ Small Businesses

Crochet Birdie

My Christmas list NZ Small Businesses

Charlotte Lane

My Christmas list NZ Small Businesses

Further Faster

My Christmas list NZ Small Businesses

The Paper Rain Project

My Christmas list NZ Small Businesses

dontbeadoormat

My Christmas list NZ Small Businesses

Aida Maeby