Stunning Cushions, Stylish Gifts and Christmas Greetings

I can't believe that by the time you read this blog there will be less than a month to go before Christmas. Judging by the comments made by our customers we are less prepared than ever for this Festive weekend. Abnormally mild weather has lulled us into feeling we couldn't possibly have reached November yet (all the leaves aren't off the trees for a start) and the uncertainty of the economy makes us want to stick our heads in the sand and hope it will all go away.

Well, we have much at the Store to put you in the right mood. I have been very careful with my buying and you will find many gifts that are good value and better than you can find on the High Street. These Christmas decorations are a delight, hand beaded and almost good enough to eat! Our jewellery is constantly changing so that you will always find something new. Look in the glass cabinets...many of our pieces are delicate and with vintage appeal this season. Our scarves start at £8.95 and are woven in India from Fair Trade sources and we also have silk mix weaves from the U.K. which are a snip at £20.00.

These little dogs and cats have been flying off the shelf. The attention to detail makes them so appealing and they make a great gift for teachers, workmates, schoolmates ...and everyone else! And we are determined to make you laugh, so major on the crazy humour of Simon Drew (his calendars are fantastic!), the recognisable quips from Spring Chicken and the 'oh, so true' captions on our notepads and handbag mirrrors. All these smaller items make good stocking fillers and smaller presents. Our Chocolates are unusual and different : Peter Rabbit Jellies, crates of liqueurs, Neideregger marzipan, sloe gin truffles....I'd be surprised if you weren't tempted.

I've been eyeing up these cushions at trade fairs for a while. I even bought one for my son a few years back and when I noticed how well it had worn I decided to share this secret with you all. These cushions are 45cm. square, hand chain stitched in Kashmir with beautifully dyed wool and backed with strong canvas. They are the perfect combination of expert Indian craftsmanship and Western design and the 'Paul Smith' stripes, spots and Miro/Klimt abstracts fit seamlessly into any modern interior. So before you part with all your cash at M&S or John Lewis come and see what we have to offer. We have easy parking and a free cup of coffee waiting for you if you spend £50.00 in the Store.

Last but not least we will be making up our fresh hampers again this year concentrating on excellent local produce with Colston Basset Stilton, Mrs. King's Pork Pie and local ale combos. So place your orders for collection during Christmas week. And don't forget that we are opening on Saturday evening on 3rd.,10th. and 17th. December with a special Christmas menu. We would like to thank all of you who have supported us this year in difficult economic times. It has meant a lot to us to have such loyalty and encouragement and Martin, myself and the staff at the Store and Garden Cafe wish you all health and happiness in 2012.

See you soon

Jan