As we get closer to Christmas, I wanted to share a little reminder that feels extra important this year: please try to shop small when you can.
When you buy from a small business, you’re not just ticking something off your gift list. You’re supporting someone’s dream. You’re helping a real person not a huge company — keep doing what they love. Every single order means something. It honestly brings so much happiness and encouragement.
Since starting Fig back in February 2024, this has been our biggest purpose to support women. Everything we sell is either handmade by women or comes from small, women-owned businesses. There’s a story and a heartbeat behind every single thing we do. So I thought I’d share a few of those stories with you, the people behind Fig, the ones who make it all so special.
Brushes – Cigdem from VOSE
Cigdem is my best friend from uni in Istanbul. She started her brand Vose six years ago and has never once cut corners. No plastic, no cheap materials, just pure, beautiful, high-quality brushes made to last. Competing with big brands isn’t easy, but she’s stayed true to her values from day one. I’m so proud that Fig is the UK distributor for Vose, it honestly feels like such a full-circle moment for both of us.
Candles – Cansu
Cansu is another close friend — we met in London during Covid and clicked straight away. She makes her candles in her tiny kitchen (and yes, she has a full-time job too!). She’s so creative, I never tell her what to make. I just give her the name of a candle, and she decides how it should smell. She only uses organic soy wax and pure essential oils, no parabens, no rubbish. I love that she cares so much about what goes into people’s homes.
Teethers – Ayse
Ayse is my mum’s friend - I’ve known her literally my whole life. When I asked if she could make baby teethers for Fig, she said yes without even thinking. She went out, bought the softest cotton yarn, and started crocheting right away. A few weeks later, she messaged me saying, “You brought joy to my life.” That moment reminded me why I love doing this — because it’s about more than products, it’s about connection and happiness.
Oils – Chloe from Moksa
Then there’s Chloe from Moksa — she’s based in Exeter and makes the most beautiful Ayurvedic-inspired oils for face and body. We met online and instantly loved her products. She’s worked on them for years, and she’s just opened her own shop after pouring her heart into it. It’s such a joy to support someone who’s so passionate and genuine.
Shower Mitts – My Mum
And last but definitely not least… my mum. The queen of shower mitts! About six months after we launched Fig, she wanted to help. I told her I wasn’t sure if people would get the Turkish mitts thing and she said, “You’d be surprised.” And guess what? She was right. They’re now one of our bestsellers! She knits them non-stop and always says, “I love the idea of someone somewhere in the world using my mitts.” It makes her so happy — and honestly, seeing her that happy makes me happy.
So that’s a little look behind the scenes at Fig, the real people, the love, and the stories behind what we do.
When you shop small this Christmas, you’re not just buying a gift. You’re supporting dreams, friendships, families, and creativity. You’re spreading so much happiness without even realising it.
So this year, if you can, shop small. Choose handmade. Choose heartfelt.