5 of the best Creative Workshops coming up at Chirpy in 2026
Looking for a great creative gift? Here’s 5 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up in 2026 at Chirpy, Chapel Allerton.
Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista
After a busy 2025 with our Chirpy Workshops we’ve already launched our programme for 2026.
Our workshops make great gifts for a crafty friend, a brilliant way to spend an evening crafting together or why not treat yourself to learn a new skill for 2026.
Here’s 5 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this 2026
1. Spring Flower Bowl Fused Glass
Thursday 26th Feb 7-8:30pm Book here
Ever fancied making an item from fused glass? In this workshop you will design your piece and then apply frit, stringers and modelled glass pieces to make a fused glass spring bowl picture.
2. Jesmonite Coasters
Thursday 5th March 7-9pm Book Here
In this workshop you'll make 2 trinket trays perfect to use for your jewellery or as coasters. Choose from different shapes you'll make a base colour for your trays and add a mix of coloured shards to give a multi coloured terrazzo finish.
3. Bluebell Forest painting workshop
Thursday 12th March 7-9:15pm book here
Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. For those more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.
We provide all the paint, brushes a 30 x 40cm canvas and other materials that are required. All you need is a to turn up with a good dose of enthusiasm. Why not bring your friends, family or colleagues…
4 . Fused Glass Spring Wreath
Thursday 19th March 7-8:30pm book here
Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, to make a Spring themed glass wreath.
Made by applying frit and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wreath which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.
The piece measures 9 cm in diameter and after firing a matching ribbon will be added.
5. Doodlemap workshop
Thursday 26th March 6:30 - 8:30pm book here
Find yourself Doodling in meetings or while on the phone? Always fancied a go at illustrating?
This 2 hour masterclass with Dave Draws will give you the chance to doodle your favourite area and create a unique map and piece of art for you to take home, under the guidance of Dave. All you need is an idea of where you want to doodle.
Still not sure which workshop to book?
Then why not buy a Chirpy Workshop Voucher? Valid for all workshops in 2026, the perfect gift for someone crafty
All our workshops are perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, and you’ll get 10% off in store during the workshop.
6 of the best postable gifts from Chirpy this Christmas
With just over 2 weeks to go until Christmas there’s still time to post a gift. And we’ve got a great choice of postable gifts for you at Chirpy.
It’s the last couple of weeks of Christmas shopping, but don’t worry there’s still time to buy and post your gifts across the UK, even 2nd class until 17th December.
We’ve got a great selection of portable gifts in Chirpy this year, perfect for sending to those friends and family you won’t get to see.
What’s more, we can send the for you too! Just use the code POSTGIFT until 14th December and we’ll send your gifts for free TRACKED48. Don’t forget to let us know what message to write from you.
Here’s 6 great ideas …
1. Self Watering Planter Pots
Winning the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Sustainable product of the year in 2025 & 2024 we love these planters as much as you do.
Sustainable & light weight with their gorgeous origami design they make the perfect addition to any home or conservatory.
Add to your basket HERE
2.Colourful Paper Vase
Containing a glass vial with a pastel honeycomb casing that’s held together by a magnetic closure.
Simply pop the glass vial into the vase, add water and fill with flowers.
Add to your basket HERE
3. Grow Bars
Cleverly curated seed collection nestled in neat, fertile coir bards, ready to grow!
Growbar is 100% eco-friendly, the coir is a sustainable alternative to peat that’s made with coconut fibres.
Available in several different options to grow plants for Tea, Bees and Edible Flowers.
Add to basket HERE
4. Lined Journals
Beautifully designed hardback A5 sized journals with colourful covers.
Perfect for making notes for a new hobby, daily journaling or just for the love of new stationery!
Add to basket HERE
5. Hanging Plant Shelf
Show off your house plants and add a burst of colour to your home decor with this macrame plant hanger.
A very simple and stylish way to display your hanging plants indoors, this clever new hanging macrame ‘plant shelf’ rests neatly against the wall.
6. Letterbox Vase
The POTR Letterbox Vase, inspired by origami and designed to be shipped flat packed, springs into its full form directly out of the packaging.
Add to basket HERE
What could be nicer than receiving a thoughtful beautifully wrapped gift through the post this Christmas and we’d love to help you spread some Chirpy love this festive season.
Shop Postable Gifts HERE
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
5 of the best gifts in Chirpy this Christmas
Chirpy is so full of gorgeous things at the moment so we’ve picked out 5 favourite products which we’re sure will make the perfect gifts …
With the Festive season upon us and only 21 shopping days left (at time of writing) we thought we’d choose our favourite 5 gifts ideas available at Chirpy in store and online.
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 add it to your basket as when it’s gone, it’s gone!
Here’s what we’ve picked for you …
1. Self Watering Planter Pots
Not officially new as these were one of our best selling products Christmas so we’re delighted to have them back in stock.
Winning the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Sustainable product of the year in 2025 & 2024 we love these planters as much as you do.
Sustainable & light weight with their gorgeous origami design they make the perfect addition to any home or conservatory.
Great for gifting too as they can be posted through the letter box
Add to your basket HERE
2. Leeds Brick Vases
A firm favourite in Leeds (wonder why?!) these stylish Brick Vases are slip cast from the original Leeds bricks and cast in vibrant colours. Perfect for flower or utensils, these make a great gift for anyone who has a link to Leeds.
Add to your basket HERE
3. Large Colourful Mugs
Think we’ve found the perfect soup mug!
Horizontal stripes for a contemporary look on these large mugs. It is important to note that the lines are painted by hand and each one will differ, this is the charm showing an artist at work.
Add to basket HERE
4. Colours of Yorkshire prints
A quirky take on Yorkshire & Leeds these hand-painted print as a great addition to any wall. In rich watercolour swatches. The colour palette represents all of the shades from God's Own Country, including Yorkshire Tea, Hendo's Relish, Whitby Harbour, Wensleydale Cheese and more!
Add to basket HERE
5. Beach clean tableware
Simple in shape but unique in nature, these contemporary Beach Clean Placemats & Coasters are a rainbow of EVA plastic - saved from our oceans is nestled playfully amongst sustainably sourced cork. Hardwearing and wipe clean, each mat is completely unique!
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.
Shop BEST SELLERS HERE
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
10 perfect Secret Santa gifts for under £30
Looking for the perfect Secret Santa gift then look no further as Chirpy can help. What’s more we can gift wrap it for you and write the label so there’s no guessing who it’s from.
Secret Santa is becoming more and more popular each year, from gift swapping with work colleagues, at family get togethers and amongst groups of friends.
Looking for the perfect gift then look no further as Chirpy can help. What’s more we can gift wrap it for you and write the label so there’s no guessing who it’s from.
Here’s some ideas we think will hit the spot …
1) Grow Bars
Perfect for the budding gardener, just add water!!
Cleverly curated seed collection nestled in neat, fertile coir bards, ready to grow! Lots to choose from, for Gin, Cat, Bee and Beers lovers
2) Black & Gold Umbrella
Perfect for the self aware!
Brighten up bad weather with our Black & Gold umbrella. On the outside it may seem like just a regular black umbrella, but fear not! On the inside it’s as golden as you wish the day would be. Compact with a handy sleeve, the black and gold umbrella will fit easily into any bag.
3) Ceramic Jug Vase
For the stylish home owner
The small jug / vase which comes in a vertical sgrafitto Stripe. As the name suggests it’s just the thing for cream, but don’t forget gravy, salad dressing and custard, though not all together! Or it can double up to use as a vase for petit flowers.
4) Lined Journal
For the stationery lover
Beautifully designed hardback A5 sized journals with colourful covers.
Perfect for making notes for a new hobby, daily journaling or just for the love of new stationery!
5) Ceramic Fish Candlestick
For the quirky one!
This ceramic fish design comes in tones of blue and pink and features two arms to display candles, creating double the ambience.
Wonderful as a centrepiece on a table, outdoors or in.
6) Self Watering Planter
For the eco conscious
Made from recycled plastic and winner of the RHS Chelsea Flower show sustainable product of the year 20025 & 2024, these contemporary planters will keep your plants watered for you. These pots also use 95% less material than traditional planters. The small amount they do use is made from recycled plastics otherwise destined for landfill
7) Espreso cups
For the coffee lover
Delightful espresso cups handcrafted in Portugal.
Designed for coffee lovers everywhere, whether you want an Espresso or explore the delights of a Macchiato, Cortado or Piccolo Latte, these cute little creations hit the spot.
8) 1000 piece Jigsaw
For the calm one
Beautifully designed jigsaws which come with a poster & trivia too. Choose from great deigns including Ice Skating, Pooches and Bees.
9) Boxed Notecards
For the letter writer
Make every message memorable our Notecard Set. Featuring 16 beautifully designed notecards in four assorted patterns, this set is perfect for thank-yous, well wishes, and everyday correspondence.
10) Guinness Book of Records Games
For the competitive one
Become a World Record holder with these great officially licensed Guinness World Records product. Includes everything you need to become an Official Guinness World Record holder!
Browse all our Gifts for under £30 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
We’re celebrating our 9th Chirpyversary!
We are 9!
We’ve got lots planned to celebrate our 9th CHIRPYVERSARY and hope you can join us!
I can’t quite believe that next weekend it’s our 9th Chirpyversary!
When I bought Chirpy in 2016, I’ll be honest I had no real idea of what I was doing but 9 years on I hope I'm just about working it out!
We never let a year go by without celebrating and this year is no different.
On Saturday 8th November we’ll be celebrating all day and saying thank you to our customers with a Double Points Day.
Spend £30 of more and receive a surprise Chirpy Voucher. There’s lot of prizes to be won including free cards, a free Workshop and a £35 Chirpy shopping spree. Just pop in on Saturday to be in with a chance of winning.
If you’re not local to Chirpy you can still help us celebrate. Shop online and save all weekend.
Use the code 9Chirpyversary10 to get 10% off when you spend £30 or more
Use the code 9Chirpyversary15 to get 15% off when you spend £50 or more
Use the code 9Chirpyversary20 to get 20% off when you spend £75 of more
The celebrations continue on Wednesday 12th November with our Evening Shopping Event from 6:30pm
There’ll be discounts, double points, goodie bags, fizz & nibbles. We’ll also have a Preloved Katie & May Pop Up so the perfect opportunity to start your Christmas shopping and pick up a new seasonal outfit.
Tickets are £10 each, redeemable against any Chirpy purchases on the evening. Grab a ticket HERE
We really couldn’t have survived the last 9 years without our fabulous loyal customer so a huge THANK YOU to you all!
Love Jo & team Chirpy x
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
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
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
Chapel Allerton Indies : EJM Wealth Consultancy
This week we’re focusing on EJM Wealth Consultancy.
Here’s a little interview we did with owner Emile to find out a little bit about him and his business…
Here’s a little interview we did with Emile from EJM Wealth Consultancy to find out a little bit about him and his business…
Tell me a little bit about yourself & your business
My name is Emile Murray and I’m a financial advisor. My team is just me! My business is in partnership with St James’s Place but instead of joining an established business, I started by own business – EJM Wealth Consultancy. I live on Roundhay Avenue (just near Potternewton park). I help people make better financial decisions, pay less tax, and achieve their life goals!
How did you get into doing what you’re doing?
I’ve always had an interest in numbers and investing. I was previously in media investment for around 10 years; when I was considering a change, I initially looked into starting a property investment business. I then retrained and became a qualified, regulated financial advisor and launched by own business!
What does a ‘normal’ day look like?
Haha there is no normal day! It’s a good job I like coffee (shout out to House of Koko – always popping there for a meeting!). My days can vary from networking events, meeting people for coffee to have an initial chat, to analysing pensions and investments, and client meetings to get this sorted for them. I also spend a lot of time talking about the sad times in life – from illness to life cover, inheritance tax planning, and succession plans. However, helping people achieve peace of mind is very important and rewarding!
Biggest achievement to date (personally and / or business wise)?
Business wise, I’d say just getting started – it’s not easy, there are a lot of exams and assessments in order to become qualified. The tax exam alone was very tricky just with the time pressure, let alone the questions!
Personally, I’m unsure really, I’m not one to blow my own trumpet. I’ve ran two marathons before, I suppose that’s not bad!
Favourite product you deliver?
Haha what a question for a financial advisor! I’d have to say pensions. They are amazing financial products and very misunderstood. They need a rebrand as people can have a really negative view on pensions! Some protection products are also amazing, like income protection for example. People will insure everything – pets, luggage when travelling, possessions, but not themselves and their earnings, which is crazy! Think of a machine that prints money, you can never buy another one if it breaks, but you can insure it, would you? 99% of people say yes, you’re that machine.
Best & worst thing about running your own business?
The best is the flexibility and deciding how I want to work, where I work, and with who.
The worst is guaranteed money at the end of the month, but that’s all part of the journey!
Is there another business in Chapel Allerton you’d like to run for a day?
Probably George & Joseph, I love wine, I love cheese… what a day that would be!
Plans for 2025 / the future?
2025 – the plan is simple; just keep speaking to people, that’s all I can control. Try to speak to people and hopefully they see how I can help them. The future, I’d love to expand in time and become a slightly bigger team, but let’s see.
Where can we find you:
39 Roundhay Avenue
07703 837920
EJM Wealth Consultancy | Leeds | Facebook
EJM Wealth Consultancy (@ejmwealthconsultancy) • Instagram photos and videos
6 of the best creative workshops coming up at Chirpy this Autumn
Looking for a great creative workshop in Leeds. Here’s 6 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this Autumn at Chirpy, Chapel Allerton.
Photo credit : Brandphotosbychrista
What’s different about Chirpy?
We’re not just a fabulous gift shop fulfilling all your gifting needs for all occasions but we’ve also got a wonderful workshop space dedicated to bring our customers great creative workshops. All perfect for beginners, with all materials and equipment provided, the workshops offer a chance to enjoy a couple of hours of creative “you time” away from the huddle & bustle of everyday life. Come on your own or bring some friends, we’re a friendly lot!
Here’s 6 of the best workshops we’ve got coming up this Autumn
1. Jesmonite coaster workshop
Thursday 11th Sept 7-9pm Book here
Jesmonite seems to be everywhere unsurprisingly as bits such a fun material to work with. In this workshop you’ll create 2 unique hexagonal trays with a terrazzo design, perfect to using as coasters or trinket trays. As Jesmonite dries quickly you’ll take away your creations on the night
2 . Fused Glass Autumn Wreath
Thursday 18th September 7-8:30pm book here
Join Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker, to make a Spring themed glass wreath.
Made by applying frit (crushed glass) and modelled glass pieces to a fused glass wreath which on completion will be taken away and fired and returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.
The piece measures 9 cm in diameter and after firing a matching ribbon will be added.
3. Mindful Calligraphy
Thursday 25th September 7-9pm book here
A relaxing and mindful two hour workshop exploring the art of modern calligraphy. Suitable for complete beginners.
We start with warm up exercises and basic strokes, practice letterforms and then have a go at crafting your name, before moving into writing our own affirmations. This is an opportunity to tap into your creative flow and take a moment out of our hectic lives to be present and explore something new.
4. Ocean Reef painting workshop
Thursday October 2nd 7-9:15pm book here
Even if you haven’t touched a pencil since primary school, with step-by-step guidance of professional local artist Joyce Buzeman of BuzemanArt, you will create your very own master piece. For those more experienced, we assure you will go away with new paint tips and paint ideas.
We provide all the paint, brushes a 30 x 40cm canvas and other materials that are required. All you need is a to turn up with a good dose of enthusiasm. Why not bring your friends, family or colleagues…
Our aim is to unleash your own painting style and encourage you where needed. It’s your masterpiece and at the end your painting will be unique to you.
5. Fused Glass Highland Cow
Thursday 15th May 7-8:30pm- book here
Ever fancied making an item from fused glass? Well here is your opportunity from Claire Myers at Cherry Tree Glass Studio, an experienced glass maker.
In this workshop you will design your piece and then apply frit (crushed glass) stringers (glass rods) and modelled glass pieces to make a fused glass Highland Cow picture, perfect as a treat for yourself or a gift for a loved one. No cutting or grinding required!
On completion your item will be taken away and fused plus a wooden frame added. It will then be returned to Chirpy for collection approximately a week later.
6. Doodlemap workshop
Thursday 23rd October 6:30 - 8:30pm book here
Find yourself Doodling in meetings or while on the phone? Always fancied a go at illustrating?
This 2 hour masterclass with Dave Draws will give you the chance to doodle your favourite area and create a unique map and piece of art for you to take home, under the guidance of Dave. All you need is an idea of where you want to doodle.