Christmas is shaping up to be difficult again this year. Omicron is spreading like wild fire, many people are having to take a couple of days off as they deal with the side effects of the booster jab and festive plans are looking increasingly uncertain, especially in London, which has been declared a major incident area. So, it’s completely reasonable if you still have last minute Christmas shopping to do! But fear not, here are five great ideas of Christmas gifts from Desi run businesses including a stocking filler and something unique for that person who is impossible to shop for.

MangaBake

MangaBake is a wonderful, small bakery business making the most moist and delicious laminations and cookies that would make the most perfect stocking fillers, one of a few small gifts or an ideal present for a colleague or co-worker. Started by the passionate bake Dipesh Mangabhai, his thoughtful treats are beautifully packaged. You can order Dipesh’s bakes on The Desi Market.

Sunshine Ninja

Winter can be a hard time for many, even without a global pandemic so if you want to gift someone some sunshine this year then look no further than some jewellery from Sunshine Ninja. Sunshine Ninja is a handmade and antique jewellery brand started by the wonderfully bubbly and generous Mana Tripathi. She sources (and cleanses!) the antique jewellery herself and uses both fresh water and glass pearls for her handmade pieces, most of which contain her signature smiley face bead. Mana makes everything from rings, necklaces and earrings to glasses chains, hand chain bracelets and pearl initial pendents. As she says, everything is made with love to bring smile to the wearers face. She can be found on Etsy but will also soon be available on The Desi Market.

Luxury Gift Box Company

If you want to treat someone special to some luxury this year - because let’s be honest, we all deserve a little pampering then the a gift box from the Luxury Gift Box Company is the way to go. Started by brother-sister duo Komal and Mohit, the company can either design you a specially curated box or you can choose from their numerous pre-designed ones. Christmas themed boxes include luxury drinks, chocolates, nuts, cheese and preserves but there are also wellbeing boxes and these include things like bath products, candles and planners and books and his and her boxes which include self-care and hair and beauty products. The boxes are available on their website.

HomeArt

A gift for the home is actually an extremely underrated Christmas present. A unique feature piece like a table runner or embroidered pillow will make for a wonderful, decorative and festive pop but also a lovely reminder of you, every time they see it. Home Art was started by Aarti, who sources exquisite handmade home decorations in vibrant colours and beautiful designs. In fact, you’re going to want to order one yourself! You can order these decorative works of art on The Desi Market.

A year long subscription to British Asian Women’s Magazine

Finally, this year give the women in your life the gift of year round access to essential hair and beauty tips and tricks, financial know-how, mental health and well-being resources, career advice and inspiring cultural think-pieces, with an annual subscription to British Asian Women’s Magazine, all for just £20! Make it a Christmas to remember!