Conscious Living: 3 independent brands to check out this month.
July is upon us and last night I had a delightful swim with some friends in the river. When carefully choosing products to fit into my lifestyle I choose what kind of vote I want to cast into the world. In the past friends have made comments about how I’m fancy - the truth is I buy very little things and the things I do are few and far between. I rarely spend on the high street and I make the clothes I buy last by having them mended. The products I do choose to buy need to evoke a feeling for me - a feeling of craftsmanship and of quietly supporting those that produce these items.
Now, more than ever, we have to stand up for what we want to see in the world - small, hardworking businesses making ends meet (because even that feels like a pipe dream for some at the moment) and for those that care about our environment, the people who make our products and keeping traditional craft and art alive.
In this new series of posts where every month I’ll highlight a small business I’ve come across in the hope that it will inspire you to spend money where it matters but also where it feels to you too.
Salt & Co.
I don’t know about you but it makes my heart sing when I really connect to a brand - a small offering of select products that you really connect with. Salt & Co has been that brand for me recently - utilitarian slow fashion that is handmade by Eloise in her Derbyshire studio. Everything is made to order to high standards because Eloise is a former Saville Row bespoke tailor.
The waxed cotton fabrics in timeless block colours are designed into extremely wearable garments for living life. This is how it should be.
Chapter Organics.
You know I love a home scent. There are a lot of wonderful companies out there making candles now and each have their merits. What I love about Chapter Organics is how the positioning of the story of your day makes you feel. I have the peace products and the moment I light the candle I know it is my time - a ritual to start a yoga session, some journaling or just checking in with myself.
All of the collections are based on aromatherapy and available in chapters covering 5 mood states. All the scents are made form the best quality ingredients.
Studio Coverdale.
Natasha and I met some ten years ago on a meeting for a work commission and we’ve followed each other since. I adore Natasha’s work and her energy for it and life in general. With collaborations with brands such as Lick, Harrods and Kew Natasha has the most outstanding collections of homewares and material items such as scarves, hoodies and bags.
Inspired by folklore and nature the pieces are romantic and playful. Everything in the Studio Coverdale collections have been designed by Natasha with the impact of the environment in mind.
Recently I became a lucky owner of one of her stunning linen wallhangings and it is a wonderful addition to my home.
My monthly series of 3 UK small independent businesses to check out and support this month.