Ace Karts: the ideal present for those hard-to-buy-for people; a go-karting gift voucher. Ace Karts have a huge outdoor track that’s also perfect for Christmas parties if you haven’t found somewhere to book yet!
PrintLocker: these guys do custom t-shirts, mugs, hoodies, you name it – and you can print anything you like on them. The perfect gag gift, or something for the whole team to wear at an event.
The Volt Cafe: instead of buying something that’ll get turfed, take them our for brunch! How does chocolate waffles with coffee butter cream, coffee infused chocolate ganache & toasted marshmallows sound? They’re also gluten free.
Umbrella Dementia Cafes: lots of us are looking to donate to an amazing cause this year, whether it’s in lieu of a present or just part of your giving back. UDC are about empowering communities and people living with dementia and you can be sure that every cent goes straight towards making the cafe spaces a place where people can find some joy this Christmas. Donate here.
The Pot Dispensary: if you follow our stories then you know Victoria loves to rave about pottery classes. Her first teacher Alex, became a business owner this year after opening her store and studio on Chapel St. You’ll find one off, Melbourne made pieces in her beautiful space (and online store) – a bit of a no-brainer for Mum’s stocking we’d say.
The Mantel Store: another female owned and run business, this gorgeous homewares store in Ripponlea stocks conscious products online too. If you live locally, Maddy will even drop your purchases off herself! She also does the best gift wrapping. We love her range of coffee table books and candles.
Fair Dinkum Dogs: handmade, high quality dog coats and treats from Castlemaine in country Victoria. Elise puts her heart and soul into these goodies; perfect for your dog loving mate.
studioFRWD: Pru is an interior and exterior designer who offers her services for a range of price points and projects. For Christmas, you can purchase gift vouchers for those who might need that helping hand to start redecorating or renovating. Get in touch with her here and let her know we sent you!
Shut The Gate Wine: you’ll find cellar doors in both the Clare Valley and Snowy Mountains. Rasa and Richard are wine producers that focus on single-site grapes and tiny batch production to ensure quality and a sustainable approach. Wine is a go-to gift for a reason!
One Plate: we worked with Therese and her charity this year on the launch of her cookbook, Brunch In Melbourne. Melbourne’s best cafes and restaurants have given away the recipes to their signatures dishes and the result is a stunning coffee table book for the foodie on your list. Even better, all profits go towards funding food projects in developing countries.
Tom Pockett: a very cool place for wine, cocktails and food in Malvern East; enjoy live music on Friday or grab a “walktail” and sip on a spritz whilst strolling around Central Park. Ideal for a Christmas event that’s not boring, or a bottle of something nice for a stocking or two.
HoMie: streetwear for social impact. A brand that many of you would already know and even wear – this Melbourne start up run programs that support youth affected by homelessness. Buying clothes has never felt better. Or, you can donate directly.
In The Round House: something else we’d like Santa to bring us… you know the design and branding is amazing when they can take something like plates and put them straight to the top of our wishlist. These homewares would make the perfect gift for someone who’s just moved house, or who loves to host.
