Small and local businesses create jobs, keep money circulating within the community, and offer personalised customer service that large chains simply can’t match. Islington is home to a vibrant array of small businesses, each bringing a unique character to the community they serve. We speak to four small business owners who tell us a little about what they offer, why the festive period is important to them and what makes Islington a great place to do business

Bryony at Palava

Palava was born out of wanting to make sustainable clothing here in the UK, mixed with a love of colour and print. I founded Palava over 15 years ago and have always designed all my own prints which we use as the basis for our collections and knitwear. We believe small is beautiful and being able to know exactly where and how our clothing is made is important to us.

There is a vibrancy for small businesses in Islington. We’re based on Caledonian Road, which has just about everything you need within walking distance. If everyone bought locally it would help support all those businesses that we will miss when they’re gone.

We do lots of workshops and events in the festive season to try and encourage people to venture into our shop. It’s not just about shopping, it’s also getting people together and sharing experiences. We try to bring a little bit of joy and always make an effort to bring some cheer and festivity to our window!

Georgina at Pretty Shiny Shop

Pretty Shiny Shop is an independent gift shop on Stroud Green Road. Our goal is to have unique, interesting and of course, pretty shiny things of good quality at attainable prices. We carry a carefully curated selection of jewellery, greeting cards, candles and other lovely things that have caught our eye.

Jewellery is a personal passion of mine and I have worked hard to curate a collection of affordable sterling silver as well as quality fashion jewellery. It is rare for a customer to leave our shop with only one greeting card and we’re always on hand to help people choose just the right gift or card for that special moment.

As a gift shop, this time of year is literally ‘make it or break it’ for me. I take in 40% of my income in November and December. It’s definitely worth shopping at your local shops. I am often more competitively priced than the large chain shops as I am a smaller operation and I can stock smaller brands, which also means I can offer things you won’t see elsewhere.

At this time of year our street gets festive lighting which adds a wonderful glow and atmosphere at night. I can’t put enough emphasis on how important it is to shop and eat locally. Your high street shops are a big part of the overall community.

Kenya at Rockwood

I opened Rockwood in October – it’s a shop that specialises in selling art, homeware, artisans and gifts. I want the shop to feel like a mini market that you would stroll into in a warm tropical place – full of colourful, expressive and unique pieces from local artists and from artisans around the world. As well as original artwork and prints, the shop will sell ceramics, bits and bobs for the kitchen, wall decorations, cushions and so much more!

I’ve lived in Finsbury Park for three years, but before that I would spend every single weekend in the area as a child as it’s where my family businesses were based. Around Stroud Green Road and Blackstock Road, there’s definitely a community feel to them and the locals do their best to support small businesses.

The festive season is of course great for business as people are buying gifts, there’s increased foot traffic to the business with so many different events to look out for – it makes it really special. I think people do their shopping locally as they want to find something different and one-of-a-kind items that small businesses usually offer.

Gina at Gina George Creation Station

I started my business back in 2001 and I’m based in the Nag’s Head Covered Market where I sell jewellery and my own handmade gift boxes. I can personalise the jewellery and engrave items with wording or images. I like to think I cater for all styles and can offer friendly advice about buying gifts for any budget. I can also arrange jewellery repairs – and I adapt cards and balloons for my dad’s stall next door, called Harry’s Cards.

Islington is a place with great diversity and warmth and a strong sense of community, which I love being part of. My business allows me to keep in touch with so many people I grew up with and some of my customers who used to shop at my stall now return with their children! I love the hustle and bustle of the Nag’s Head and love that there are so many regular traders and residents. It’s also a place where you can get almost everything you need under one roof.

Christmas sales are important and keep me going through the quiet months of the new year. It’s also a fun time to be working – there’s always Christmas hats and festive music! Islington is really good at being inclusive and it’s a joy to see so many people celebrate the season in their own way.

Make sure to visit your local high street this winter for all those unique festive gifts. To find out more about what’s on offer across islington visit:
islingtonlife.london/neighbourhoods