10 perfect stocking fillers for under £10
As so many of our Chirpy customers pop in to pick up a few extra gifts to make up Christmas stockings here’s our top picks of fun, thoughtful, affordable gifts guaranteed make Christmas gift giving extra special this year…
As so many of our Chirpy customers pop in to pick up a few extra gifts to make up Christmas stockings here’s our top picks of fun, thoughtful, affordable gifts guaranteed to make Christmas gift giving extra special this year.
1) Lovely Lip Balms
Delicious creamy lip balm, formulated with beeswax and jojoba oil for extra hydrating power. Available in a range of quirky flavours for all tastes.
2) Salt & Steam Relaxing Facial Steams
Ready to get that just-steamed glow? From opening your pores to hydrating your skin, they really are a skincare game-changer.
The steams are made from blends of detoxifying Dead Sea salts and pink Himalayan rock salts to hydrate as the steam soothes your skin.
3) Activity Logbooks
A5 notebooks which are the perfect accompaniment for hobbies or just a great way to keep a note of what you’ve achieved. From Reading to Walking, Travel to Gardening, they’re the perfect logbook for everyone.
4) 40 Yorkshire Favourite Walks
If you’re a fan of the great outdoors then these books are the perfect pocket sized companion. Discover tranquil dales, stunning coastline, ancient woodlands, waterfalls, dramatic caves and ruined abbeys.
Each walk contains details of the length, difficulty and landmarks you’ll see along the way.
5) Pencil Sets
The perfect gift for any stationery addict, especially if they’re also Gin Lovers, Biscuit Nibblers, the Grammar police or check out the sweary ones if you want a bit of a cheeky gift!
6) Small Ombre Mug
A little hug in a mug. Perfect for a flat white or a hot chocolate, this little mug will keep you topped up with warm drinks all day.
7) Flat pens
Six beautifully illustrated and gold foiled designs printed on both sides. All with black ink and really work! Simply bend and tear off whenever you need a pen! Great to include in homemade Christmas crackers.
8) Curled up Corner bookmarks
Curl up with a good book and a charming metal animal bookmark. Clips smoothly onto the corner of your favourite book to keep your place for next time. What could be more snug for an evening?
9) Leather luggage tag
Spot your suitcase with this stylish leather luggage tag. Just wrap it round the handle and write your details on it then you’re ready to go.
10) Cork Passport holder
Protect your passport from wear and tear - the perfect sustainable gift for any keen traveller.
Browse all our Stocking Fillers HERE
We have a great range of gifts for all budgets at Chirpy. So whatever you’re looking for this festive season we’re sure we can help.
And what’s more, by shopping local you’re supporting the local economy, and keeping the high street thriving.
See you soon in Chirpy x
Late Night Shopping with Chirpy
This November & December we’re making it easier for your to shop at your favourite gift shop was we stay open until 7:30pm on Thursdays
As the nights get longer so do our Chirpy hours.
Throughout November and December we’ll be opening late until 7;30pm
Giving you more of an opportunity to pop in and pick up a Chirpy gift for all occasions or that card you’ve forgotten to send.
The perfect time to start (or finish!) your Christmas shopping.
So why not call in on your way home from work.
Don’t forget you can also order online and choose ‘Click and Collect’ usually on the same day.
Helping you #shoplocal and support your local high street
Hope to see you soon at Chirpy!
Kids Half Term Workshops
This half term we're bringing you a special mini version of our ever popular Jesmonite Coaster Workshop - running 3 times on Thursday 31st October
Perfect for kids +7 years
This half term we're bringing you a special mini version of our ever popular Jesmonite Coaster Workshop
In this mini workshop you'll make one coaster / trinket tray using a choice of premade coloured shards and a white jesmonite base.
You'll leave your coaster to dry and should be able to collect it later that day, or pop into Chirpy anytime afterwards to collect it.
This workshop is suitable for age 7+ however anyone under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. If ther accompanying adult would also like to make a coaster then please book an additional ticket.
Jesmonite is an environmentally conscious, eco-friendly and safe lightweight product which is perfect for creating beautiful design.
This workshop will run 3 times on the morning of Tuesday 28th and at 5-6pm on Wednesday 29th & Thursday 30th October
Booking is essential - please arrive on time as this is a short workshop
£10 PP
Tickets available HERE
5 of the best new gifts in Chirpy this Autumn
Chirpy is so full of gorgeous things at the moment so we’ve picked out 5 favourite new products which we’re sure will make the perfect gifts …
So as we approach the festive season (only 10 more Fridays until Christmas at time of writing!) we thought we’d choose our favourite 5 new gifts ideas which have just arrived at Chirpy.
From gorgeous homewares, to fabulous accessories and kids gifts, we’re sure that you’ll love what we’ve got in store at the moment at Chirpy.
Seen something you think will be the perfect present for someone (or gift for yourself!) then don’t delay as we’re getting to the time of year when as small independent retailers we can’t always restock. Sometimes our suppliers run out too! So if you pop in store, or see it on our website then when not start to shop early for this festive season - though it’s mid October so not that early!
Here’s what we’ve picked for you …
1. Striped Dipping Bowls
Perfect for entertaining, fill these bowls with nibbles, olives, sauces or mini treats. Bringing a touch of style to any festive table, great for gifting too as they come beautifully boxed.
Add to your basket HERE
2. Wine Coasters
Keeping with the striped theme, these gorgeous wine coasters are the perfect (& practical) gift for any wine lover. No more red wine rings on your table, or stains on your sideboard, just pop a wine coaster under your bottle. Available in 3 different colours and come boxed, perfect for gifting too. For the person who has everything, they might not have one of these!
Add to your basket HERE
3. Black / Gold Umbrella
The perfect glow up! Brighten up any grey day with this beautiful reflective golden umbrella. Black on the outside but the inside is a surprise. Telescopic with a matching carry case, make someone’s day brighter by gifting them this.
Add to basket HERE
4. The Fish Candle Stick
Who says gifts have to be sensible? Sometimes you just have to choose something a bit quirky and trust that they’ll love it! Making the perfect centrepiece to any table, festive or not, this candle holder will definitely be a conversation starter.
Add to basket HERE
5. Guinness Book of Records Games
Looking for something a bit different for the kids (or big kids) in your life? Want a Christmas challenge all the family can have a go at? Get their competitive juices flowing with these new Guinness Book of Records Games and be in with a chance of being an official record holder. Choose from Stacking Cups, Dominoes and Playing Cards, everything is included to break a record!
Add to basket HERE
As always, at Chirpy we aim to bring you great, affordable gifts for all occasions and Christmas is no exception. From local products to small brands we’re sure you’ll find just what you’re looking for. And what’s more, by shopping local you’re supporting a the local economy, and keeping the high street thriving.
See you soon in Chirpy x
Join us for our November evening shopping event
Join us on Wednesday 12th November for an evening shopping event with discounts, double points, fizz & goodie bags. We’ll also be hosting a preloved pop up from Katie & May.
Grab a ticket and come and join us!
Can you believe it's 9 years since I took over Chirpy?
It's been a rollercoaster of a ride so it's definitely worth celebrating - we couldn't have done it without you!
This year to celebrate we're hosting a shopping evening and you're invited.
There'll be special offers, discounts, double loyalty points, goodie bags and of course fizz & nibbles!
We'll also be joined by Katie & May with a beautiful range of PRELOVED clothes, including Autumn & Winter fashion and evening wear, perfect for finding something for those festive nights out.
Tickets are £10 which you'll get back off your Chirpy purchases on the night.
Tickets are limited so don't miss out! Grab one HERE
The perfect opportunity to shop Chirpy's new season products and start your Christmas shopping!
We can't wait to celebrate with you!
Jo, Cath and team Chirpy xxx
WIN! A Year's FREE Supply of Cards worth £195!
Be in with a change of winning A YEAR’S SUPPLY OF CARDS WORTH £195!
Yes, that’s right, once again we’re giving away…
A YEAR’S FREE SUPPLY OF CARDS!
That’s 60 cards with £195 FOR FREE!
All you need to do is buy a Card Bundle during October either online or in store and you’ll ne entered into a prize draw to win a monthly subscription. That’s 5 FREE cards every month for a YEAR!
If you buy more than one bundle in October you’ll be entered for each bundle you buy.
A previous winner, Rebecca. loved receiving her free monthly cards and said this…
“I was so delighted (and surprised) to win the competition). I love seeing what cards I get in my bundle each month and it really helps keep me organised to have a supply of gorgeous cards to send to friends and family on their birthdays.”
So to be in with a chance of winning just buy a card bundle of 5 cards this month and we’ll enter you.
Competition closes at midnight Friday 31st October when we will draw a winner at random.You’ll be informed by email if you have won.
Welcoming Autumn to Chirpy, keeping the door open (but adding an extra layer)!
Looking back at the last 3 months as we welcome Autumn to Chirpy (with the door open and an extra layer on!)
The sun may have shone for the last week in September but there’s a definite nip in the air as we look back at the last 3 months at Chirpy.
I welcomed July with a bucket list gig, getting to see Steve Wonder live has definitely been one of my highlights of the year, supported by local girl Corinne Bailey Rae which made it just that little bit special. Closely followed by a holiday in Croatia I was really thankful for my amazing team in July to let me have a bit of time out to relax and gather my thoughts for the rest of the year.
Straight back at it from my holiday with a visit to Harrogate Home & Gift, just a bus ride away, where I found some gorgeous new products which have already become best sellers at Chirpy. Just hoping I can keep them stocked up for Christmas as know they are going to be popular.
July saw the launch of Wellbeing Wednesday Meditations sessions – something a little bit different for us but we loved it. Looking forward to running these on a monthly basis so don’t forget to book. The next one is Wednesday 15th October - click HERE to book
In August we said goodbye to Lizzie (& my Thursday mornings sleep ins!) as she’s got herself an exciting part time job as well as continuing to make her beautiful ceramics. Great excuse for a team night out trying out one of the newer bars in Chapel Allerton, Brew + Bao, which did not disappoint.
I had a flying trip to Aberdeen to help my daughter move into her new uni house (not quite as flying as planned thanks to storm Floris and a cancelled train). Then a day trip to London to meet up with some uni friends, though we didn’t really leave the vicinity of KX, too busy eating, drinking and catching up to actually take in any of the sights!
Despite the rain, Chapel Allerton Festival was another great success, as we supported it again as a wristband collection point, meaning new visitors to Chirpy who’d never been before. Let’s just hope they return soon and buy something!
If you’ve wanted to find me in September then chances are I’ll have been at Chirpy! With a depleted team and staff holidays I’ve spent most of my time here, though huge thanks to Stacey and Molly for helping out when I needed a break.
Another flying visit to London, this time to visit Top Drawer, the trade show which for me really marks the start of autumn and the run up to Christmas. A great show, a chance to catch up with retail pals, suppliers and of course find some new products.
We celebrated Thinking of You Week with a week-long competition, sending cards on behalf of our winners to spread a bit of Chirpy love and joy.
Our workshop programme got off to a great start, with Jesmonite, Fused Glass & Calligraphy workshops as well as our second Meditation session which left me ready to take on the next 3 months and whatever it throws at me!
We welcomed back Katie & May with their preloved clothing, a perfect way to end sustainable September. Did you pick up a preloved bargain?
So as the sun sets a little bit earlier every day, the leaves start to fall and the temperature drops, we’re gearing up for the ‘Golden Quarter’. With marketing plans, purchasing spreadsheets and sales forecasts we’ve hoping the this year doesn’t disappoint. Every year we are always blown away by the support of our Chirpy customers and this year we need you more than ever as it’s been a tough year in retail. We hope you love the new products we have chosen and as ever we’re here to offer great customer service with a smile!
In October half term we see the return of mini Jesmonite Workshops for just £10 - click HERE to book. We also welcome back our amazing CHIRPYVERSARY card competition to celebrate our 9th anniversary. Throughout October buy a bundle of 5 cards in store or online and be in with a chance of winning a bundle of cards every month for a year, worth over £170! Head to our online store to be in with a chance of winning
Here’s to a busy and successful autumn!
Hope to see you soon in Chirpy
Jo x
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Welcome back to Chirpy Katie & May!
We’re delighted to welcome back Katie & May with their PRELOVED pop up shop on Saturday 27th September from 10am.
We’re delighted to welcome back Katie & May Saturday 27th September with their PRELOVED pop up.
Join Catherine as she bring a great range of preloved women’s clothes and accessories.
A prefect opportunity to update your wardrobe and be sustainable.
Come along and join Catherine from 10am - 3pm upstairs at Chirpy
https://www.katieandmay.co.uk
Thinking of You Week 15th - 21st September - enter our competition
Join us between 15th - 21st September for Thinking of You Week to spread the love of cards.
All week we’ll be giving you a chance to win FREE cards
It’s that time of year again!
You know how much we LOVE cards in Chirpy (& our customers love them too!) so we’re delighted that there’s a week each year when we can really celebrate them!
During Thinking of You Week why not take the opportunity to send a card to someone you haven’t seen for a while, drop them a message with all your news, check in on them or just say Hi!
And we can help you do that.
Throughout the week we’ll be running a little competition.
Everyday we’ll be posting a picture on our IG grid of a card - all you need to do is comment CARD to be in with a change of winning a FREE card which we will send on your behalf with your message. Well be doing this every day, Monday - Saturday and on Sunday 21st we’ll draw a winner from all the people who have commented throughout the week for someone to win a FREE bundle of 5 cards.
What’s more when you buy a card bundle in store or online during Thinking of You Week you’ll also be in with a chance of winning a FREE bundle of cards.
And there’s also DOUBLE POINTS in store on all cards!
So why not join in the fun and ‘send a card, deliver a smile”
Follow us on Instagram HERE
Focus on ... Fawn & Thistle
This month we’re focusing on Kirsten from Fawn & Thistle
To get to know her and her business a little bit more, here’s a little interview we did with her …
This month we’re focusing on Kirsten from Fawn & Thistle. We’ve just started to stock her cards and they are proving very popular, especially with cat lovers, myself included!
To get to know Kirsten and her business a little bit more, here’s a little interview we did with her :
Tell me a little bit about yourself
I’m Kirsten, the illustrator and designer behind Fawn & Thistle. I run the business from my studio in Kent, where I create bold, playful stationery, greeting cards, and gifts – usually with a bit of humour, colour, and the occasional cat thrown in for good measure.
I also work as a freelance designer and marketer on the side and teach printmaking workshops.
I have three cats (one is just a 3month rescue kitten) and constantly find their antics to be a source of inspiration for my cat-themed designs.
How did you get into doing what you’re doing?
Honestly, I kind of just fell in to it. I was graduating from my MA in Illustration at the time of the 2008 recession, and it was impossible to find a job in design that wasn’t a never ending unpaid internship. So I moved back to Kent from London and set up my own thing. I’d seen people selling on Etsy, and figured how hard can it be - I was very wrong!
Over the years I’ve taught myself the business side of things, as well as creating my brands signature style and voice. It’s been a steep learning curve.
What does a ‘normal’ day look like?
I don’t really have a “normal” day – I try to give some structure to the week by setting aside certain days for specific tasks. Mondays are usually for catching up on emails and online orders, Wednesdays are for wholesale outreach, and so on. That said, I have to keep things flexible to juggle freelance projects alongside Fawn & Thistle. Some days I’m sketching new designs or packing up wholesale orders, and other days (more than I’d like!) are spent knee-deep in admin or running printmaking workshops.
Biggest achievement to date?
I’ve had a few recently which have really helped bolster my confidence in what I’m doing with Fawn & Thistle! Getting stocked in Oliver Bonas was a big milestone for me as it was always top of my ‘Big Dream Stockists’ list, and most recently I won Theo Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday, which was a big boost!
Where can we find your cards?
Besides Chirpy (of course), you can find my cards on my own website, through lovely stockists throughout the UK, and I’m also on Faire if you’re a retailer. I also occasionally pop up at markets and events now and then – keep an eye on my Instagram for updates.
Most popular card design?
The cats. Always the cats. My cat cards are by far the most popular designs I have. It’s funny, after being called a Cat Lady for most of my life, I didn’t actually introduce many cat cards in to my range until recently, and I just don’t know why. I should have embraced my cat lady status sooner.
Have you seen any changing card trends over the last 12 months?
I’ve noticed the general tone of cards can be a bit more irreverent and cheeky, not just for your standard and more traditional occasions - cards that say what we actually want to say, but in a fun, thoughtful way.
Design-wise, I’m seeing so many food/fruit & veg/condiment type designs everywhere, which I really enjoy.
Why do you think sending cards is still so important?
I think despite living in a more technological, digital age, people still really enjoy tactile and tangible things. It’s heartwarming when someone gives you a card that they went out and looked for, chose because it reminded them of you and then wrote a sweet note inside.
I personally keep cards I’m given and frame some of them as mini pieces of art.
Best thing about running your own business?
The flexibility and working for yourself. I love working the hours that work for me, especially because I’m a night owl and find myself to be most creative at night.
Advice to someone looking to turn their hobby / talent into a business?
Be curious, step out of your comfort zone and put yourself out there, even if it feels scary. Also, ask for help and listen to others, there are so many knowledgeable people out there who’ve helped me get my head around Wholesale, running a business, SEO etc etc. If I don’t know something, I’ll always look for someone who does.
Plans for the future?
After moving back to fulltime self employment again, I’m finally getting to design some new cards and ranges, which I think are going to be great! I’m also working on creating a licensing portfolio to work with bigger companies and setting up my own printmaking subscription box called Printfolk. I’m so excited about Printfolk and creating a creative community around printmaking.
Check out Kirsten’s IG here