From unique homeware to the retro-inspired exercise class membership, we’re rounding up some of our favourite Christmas gifts from LGBTQ+ brands
This Christmas, a lot of us are thinking about where we’re spending our money. After the year we’ve all had, it makes sense that we want to give back to local communities, small sellers, and those who have social change at the heart of their businesses.
In recent years, huge strides have been made in LGBTQ+ representation, inclusion, and equality – but there’s still a long way to go. In a report by UK charity Stonewall into LGBTQ+ experiences in the workplace, it was revealed that:
- One in five LGBTQ+ staff have been the target of negative comments or conduct at work.
- One in eight trans people have been physically attacked by customers or colleagues because they are trans.
- Similarly, one in ten BAME LGBTQ+ staff have been physically attacked because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
- One in five LGBTQ+ people who were looking for work said that they were discriminated against because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
It's clear to see that LGBTQ+ people face unique barriers when it comes to suceeding in the work and business worlds. But, whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or not, there are many ways that we can all support the community and stamp out discrimination – including creating inclusive environments in our own places of work, and becoming better allies. We can also elevate and support LGBTQ+ businesses, while nabbing ourselves brag-worthy items.
Here, we highlight some of our favourite LGBTQ+-owned brands, so that you can help level the playing field, and gift something truly unique this Christmas.
Kelzo – handmade jewellery
If you’re searching for affordable, funky jewellery, look no further than Kelzo. Browse through unique earrings, necklaces, rings, hair accessories and more. And know that your money is going to a good cause when you shop from their ‘Pride Collection’ which donates 20% of profits to LGBTQ+ charities.
Kelzo
Benji’s – homeware
Shopping for a homebody? Ben and Jamie, the task-force behind Benji’s, have created a one-stop shop for all the bits, bobs, and trinkets that make a house feel like a home. Find unique pieces at affordable prices, and stumble across the finishing touches you’ve been searching for.
Benji's
Retroglow – online retro-fitness
Who says that working out shouldn’t be fun? Serving workout classes offering feel-good dance experiences, and retro-inspired classes, Retroglow is the online fitness studio on a mission to make exercise fun again. Sign up for one-off classes or get a monthly membership. Legwarmers optional.
Retroglow
Cocoa Cabana – chocolatiers
Know someone with a sweet tooth? Allow them to indulge in the innovative range from Cocoa Cabana. From bars, sauces, truffles, and even a giant gold chocolate pineapple, the offerings almost look too good to eat, but are sure to go down a treat.
Cocoa Cabana
bide boxes – eco-friendly subscription boxes
We’re all trying to think a bit more about the impact that we’re having on the world around us. Offering plastic-free, zero-waste, sustainable, vegan cleaning products for the whole home, bide boxes are a great gift for someone at the start of their sustainability journey.
bide boxes
Little soap company – cleansing bars
Be kind to the skin, with facial, exfoliating shampoo and shaving bars from the Little Soap Company. These perfect stocking-fillers are plastic-free, vegan, and made from naturally derived ingredients.
Little Soap Company
Skay Navarre – accessories and apparel
Offering stickers, mugs, t-shirts, and more, depicting illustrated LGBTQ+ couples and families, Skay Navarre’s range of products celebrate the every day with simple, sweet illustrations.
Skay Navarre
The Crop Club – growing kits
A social enterprise on a mission to help people grow food in small places, the growing kits from The Crop Club are the perfect thing for green fingers. The mini kit includes everything you need to grow windowsill herbs and edible flowers, and to bring the joy of growing your own food into the home.
The Crop Club
