Looking to do a bit of last-minute shopping?
BY HARRIET CURZON, IMAGE BY DIVERSIFYLENS
It’s mid-December, which probably means your calendar is packed full, you’re already panicking about what to buy your partner who’s impossible to buy for, and someone at work has just suggested doing Secret Santa because you all know each other SO well!
But, before you panic-buy tat, here’s a list of eight queer-owned businesses that you can support this Christmas, with gift ideas for your impossible partner or the work Secret Santa for that colleague whose last name you don’t even know.
Gay’s The Word
Established in 1979 by a group of gay socialists, Gay’s The Word is the UK’s oldest LGBTQIA+ bookshop. It’s been writing history since the day it was set up, hosting iconic signings, preserving queer literature, and fostering a sense of community between the shelves. Whether you’re buying for a history buff, romance fan, or someone who just loves a classic, they stock a wide range of books, ready to be wrapped up for someone special.
Queer Brewing
Buy a gift of the prettiest six-pack ever seen – this queer beer pairs unique designs with a range of flavours, examples include She Drives A Subaru (a Hazy IPA) and Don’t Die Wondering (Mango & Lime Sour). As the UK’s first queer and trans-owned brewery, they have raised tens of thousands of pounds for LGBTQA+ charities. Plus – you can purchase a glass or merch to match!
Leftbians
This brand is run by a lesbian couple in Warwickshire who met in art school and started Leftbians in 2019 to use art and fashion to convey their identities and ideologies. They twist traditional imagery embedded in queer culture – old tarot cards have new meanings, and a new scissor card needs no psychic interpretation, but makes for cute jewellery, t-shirts and tote bags. You can check them out at the Strapped Flinta Wonderland market in Haggerston tomorrow, 13 December.
Sara’s Threads
For your friend whose default setting is sarcasm, Sara’s Threads has some practical pun-ny socks, some are dual purpose, with the words “don’t stare at my tits” being sure to ward off any creeps. They have embroidered hoodies, tote bags, hats, earrings and even plates! The plates are ceramic and hand-printed, which could be perfect as a trinket dish to home your jewellery or keys. Everything is meticulously machine-embroidered by Sara, and all the products are inclusive, cruelty-free and vegan. What’s not to love?
Gay Pride Shop
If you’re really struggling for ideas, this Manchester-based LGBTQIA+ shop is stocked with inspiration, from badges, bags and books, to face paints, fans and flags. If you get the chance to visit, you will find it nestled in the Northern Quarter, on the second floor of Afflecks, and you will almost certainly be walking out with more than you bargained for.
Sh! Emporium
Created to oppose the sleazy sex shops of Soho that were made for men by men, Sh! Women’s Erotic Emporium was set up in 1992 by Ky Hoyle. They sell toys, lingerie, and games which prioritise female sexuality – perfect if you know someone on the naughty list this Christmas. They also host a range of educational talks and empowering events.
Stoned To Death Jewellery
Stoned To Death is an Irish, queer jewellery brand based in London, that sells unique rings and necklaces made of sterling silver. Each item, handmade by Bev in their Camberwell studio, merges contemporary audacity with Irish tradition. One piece takes between three and ten hours, and there is an option to commission a custom design for an especially treasured gift.
Marblehead Studios
Hand-illustrated products bursting with bold patterns and individuality. Marblehead Studios exudes creativity and self-expression, and the product design sits somewhere between pop art and retro cartoon. They sell everything from stationery to hoodies, and as Christmas shopping goes, it’s perfect for both stocking fillers and standout Christmas gifts.
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