A VERDEN Christmas Shopping Guide

 

Verden's Top 5 Independent Stores For Festive Shopping

If you're looking for beautifully crafted, thoughtfully designed gifts this Christmas then look no further than your local VERDEN stockist. Here's our list of top design-led independent stores, rooted in their local communities who offer a creative, curated festive shopping experience.

1. Berdoulat – Bath

Tucked away on Margaret’s Buildings in Bath, Berdoulat occupies a fantastic building dating back to 1777, which is rich in retail history. @berdoulat_interior_design

  • What to find: Kitchenware, dining furniture, hand-designed tableware, herbs & spices, wines, and cookbooks.

  • Why it’s magical at Christmas: Their products feel timeless and rooted in heritage — ideal for gifts that feel personal and thoughtful. Plus, the store’s Georgian architecture and historical depth (even the basement was once servants’ quarters) make the shopping experience especially atmospheric.

  • Insider tip: The in-store florist (Nice Bunch) offers dried and fresh flowers, which make for lovely, long-lasting festive arrangements.

2. Meet Bernard – London

Meet Bernard is a South East London boutique that’s all about fashion with heart. @meetbernard

  • What to find: Independent clothing labels, quality leather gloves, knitwear, and accessories — everything from winter warmers to fashion-forward pieces.

  • Why it’s perfect for Christmas: Accessories like cosy beanies, elegant gloves, and scarves make for thoughtful and wearable gifts. Their curated edit means you’re likely to find something unique — not what everyone else is gifting.

  • Gift idea: Pick a statement knit for someone who appreciates design-led but practical pieces.

3. Couverture & The Garbstore – Notting Hill, London

One of London’s most beloved concept stores, Couverture & The Garbstore, spans three floors of a reimagined period townhouse. @couverture

  • What to find: Women’s and men’s wear, carefully selected brands based on their commitment to quality and timeless design.

  • Why it’s a Christmas go-to: Their strong focus on craftsmanship and emerging designers makes for gifts that feel special — not mass-produced. Whether you're after a cosy textile, a beautifully made shirt or a charming toy, this store delivers.

4. hedge – Birmingham

hedge is a lovely lifestyle store and flower studio based in Stirchley, Birmingham, blending wild floristry with design-led homewares. @the_hedge

  • What you’ll find: A carefully curated mix of clothing, homeware, jewellery, paper goods and, of course, flowers — including sustainably grown, locally sourced garden flowers and everlasting dried florals.

  • Why it's special for Christmas: hedge brings a beautiful, untamed, and thoughtful touch to its offerings. Their flowers are wild and whimsical, perfect for festive floral arrangements. Meanwhile, their home and lifestyle pieces — from candles to clay mugs — feel meaningful and design-led.

5. Maison Curate – London

Maison Curate is a London-based treasure perfect for those who love interiors and small-batch design. @maisoncurate

  • What to find / what to expect: Curated furniture, decorative objects, home accessories — things that reflect a refined taste and an eye for design.

  • Why it’s ideal for gifting: Home-related gifts (candles, ceramics, objets) from a place like Maison Curate carry a sense of purpose and thoughtfulness. These are the kind of pieces that elevate a living space.

🎄 How to Make the Most of These Stockists This Christmas

  • Start early. Independent shops often have smaller stock, so booking a shopping trip in November might save you stress.

  • Build your route. Pair shops like Meet Bernard and Couverture in a London outing, or combine a trip to Bath to hit Berdoulat.

  • Talk to the shopkeepers. Ask about maker stories or seasonal recommendations — you might discover a hidden gem.

 

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