Christmas gift ideas

The tree is up, the lights are hung. Christmas is only weeks away but has your gift shopping begun? No need to stress, we’ve got you sorted. Use these great gift ideas to check off your list and keep local businesses supported. From hampers and clothes to homewares and more, you’ll find a great range of products online or in store. So sit back, relax and enjoy the festive fun, knowing you’ve got something sorted for everyone.

For the fashionistas

• MMAD StreetWear is a label inspired and created by talented young people involved with the Musicians Making a Difference (MMAD) program based on the Central Coast. The designs are limited edition and profits go towards supporting the charitable program.
• Sleazy Thieves is a clothing concept and the brainchild of a former MMAD participant. The brand is gender neutral and the label has a strong focus on giving back to the community.
• Kaden’s Closet offers a curated range of second-hand designer clothes, shoes and accessories. Best of all, the funds go towards supporting cancer patients from diagnosis to survivorship.

For the foodies

• Mai-Wel Enterprises supply a range of hampers in small and large quantities that can also be customised or branded with corporate messaging.
• The Other Chef make a delectable range of artisan food products including chutneys, jams, relishes and more that are sourced from locally grown ingredients and contain no added nasties.
• Peal Produce deliver fresh fruit and vegetable boxes to your door. Create the perfect festive feast or gift someone a box so they can mix up meal time with seasonal produce from local farmers.
• Cardiff South Butchery & Pies offer quality meats so get your orders in if a roast or BBQ is your Christmas specialty.

For the coffee fiends

• Wildflower Espresso have spread the word that coffee and kindness are cool! And if their quality coffee and vouchers aren’t enough, they’ve recently opened up a store where you can get your hands on branded merch to help share the love.
• Three Monkeys Café have a range of fantastic products including their own coffee beans, muesli, teas and cold brew that would make a perfect little DIY hamper for budding baristas.
• O’Neills Mobile Coffee Group have coffee lovers sorted this Christmas – offering bags of beans, branded coffee mugs, pre-paid coffee cards and drink vouchers. The team are also a drop-off point for the Newcastle Toy Run at their IGA Cameron Park Trailer

For something from the heart

• The craftsmen at Raymond Terrace Men’s Shed have turned their skills towards making a wide range of old fashioned children’s toys including trucks, chairs, doll houses and can make custom items to order.
• Avenue is a series of co-working spaces where people of all abilities are supported to work. Their in-house team of creative entrepreneurs hand make a range of products, from cards and candles to clothing and homewares.
• The Posy Post deliver daily bouquets of joy all year round but will be offering Christmas inspired posies for the week leading into Christmas. You can also get your hands on plants, a range of gift sets or sign someone up for a Posy subscription for a gift that keeps giving.
• Purchase a donation card from Dog Rescue Newcastle instead of a gift for the animal lovers out there who will appreciate that the money has gone towards giving rescued animals a second chance at life.
• Centre for Hope offer limited edition journals to support goal setting, reflection and a positive outlook. All profits go towards supporting young people to find their place in the world.

For the outdoor explorer

• Cancer Council have you covered for gift ideas to keep your loved ones safe and stylish this summer. They stock a range of sun protection products including sunnies, clothing and hats; and purchases go towards funding important areas of research and support.
• Graffiti Surf Design in Nelson Bay stock all the major surf brands you know and love, including a range of threads and accessories to get your friends and family ready for a summer in the sun.
• Paksac specialise in high quality canvas bags and accessories that are made to last, from Crib Bags to camping gear and covers. They can also have items custom made or altered to suit your needs.